Introduction
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a refreshing, no-bake dessert that combines layers of creamy pudding, fresh fruit, and soft biscuits into one irresistibly comforting dish. It takes the familiar appeal of traditional banana pudding and elevates it with the bright sweetness of strawberries. This dessert is perfect for warm weather, family gatherings, or anytime you need a quick yet impressive sweet treat. I often make this pudding when I want something light but satisfying, especially when fresh strawberries are in season. The bananas add natural creaminess, while the strawberries bring a fresh, slightly tangy contrast that keeps the dessert from feeling overly rich. Easy to assemble and ideal for making ahead, strawberry banana pudding is a crowd-pleasing favourite that feels nostalgic yet fresh at the same time.
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Strawberry Banana Pudding: A Creamy, Fruity No-Bake Classic
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy no-bake dessert layered with fresh strawberries, sliced bananas, vanilla pudding, and whipped topping for a refreshing and crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
- 1 package (100 g) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 500 ml cold milk
- 200 g whipped topping, thawed
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 250 g fresh strawberries, sliced
- 200 g vanilla wafer cookies or ladyfingers
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla extract if using.
- Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth.
- In a serving dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom.
- Add a layer of pudding mixture over the wafers.
- Top with a layer of banana slices and strawberries.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
- Finish with remaining whipped topping on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Dip banana slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Best served the same day for freshest fruit.
- You can use strawberry pudding for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, no-bake, and comes together quickly. It uses everyday ingredients and requires no oven time. The combination of fresh fruit and creamy pudding makes it light, refreshing, and perfect for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vanilla Pudding Mix
Vanilla pudding forms the creamy base of the dessert, providing smooth texture and gentle sweetness.
Milk
Milk is used to prepare the pudding and ensures a rich yet light consistency.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and depth, enhancing the overall creaminess.
Whipped Topping
Whipped topping lightens the pudding mixture and creates an airy, fluffy texture.
Bananas
Bananas add natural sweetness and a soft, creamy bite that pairs perfectly with vanilla pudding.
Strawberries
Strawberries provide freshness, colour, and a bright contrast to the creamy layers.
Vanilla Wafers
Vanilla wafers soften as they chill, creating cake-like layers throughout the dessert.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavour and ties all the components together.
Directions
Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions using milk. Once thickened, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully combined and airy.
Slice the bananas and strawberries evenly.
In a serving dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers along the bottom, followed by a layer of pudding, then bananas and strawberries.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately eight people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a chilling time of at least two hours.
Storage/reheating
Store strawberry banana pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. This dessert is served chilled and does not require reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Strawberry Banana Pudding is easy to adapt to different tastes. For extra richness, cream cheese can be blended into the pudding mixture for a cheesecake-style flavour. I have also prepared this recipe using strawberry-flavoured pudding, which intensified the fruitiness and worked very well.
You can substitute vanilla wafers with graham crackers or ladyfingers for a different texture. For individual servings, assemble the layers in small jars or cups, which makes the dessert perfect for parties. These variations allow flexibility while keeping the dessert creamy, fresh, and crowd-friendly.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dessert provides carbohydrates from fruit and wafers, along with fats from dairy components. Strawberries and bananas add vitamins and natural sweetness. Portion control is recommended due to its richness.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Ripe Fruit
Ripe bananas and fresh strawberries provide the best flavour and texture.
Layer Evenly
Even layers ensure consistent flavour in every serving.
Chill Before Serving
Allow enough chilling time for the wafers to soften and flavours to blend.
FAQs
Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal for making a few hours in advance.
How do I keep bananas from browning?
Lightly coat banana slices with lemon juice if preparing far ahead.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, though it may be slightly less stable.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and whipped alternatives.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It is balanced, but sweetness can be adjusted.
Can I freeze strawberry banana pudding?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
Graham crackers or sponge cake work well.
Can I add more fruit?
Yes, blueberries or raspberries are great additions.
How long should it chill?
At least two hours, preferably longer.
Is this suitable for potlucks?
Yes, it travels well when kept chilled.
Conclusion
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy, refreshing dessert that combines nostalgic comfort with fresh fruit flavour. Its no-bake simplicity, beautiful layers, and crowd-pleasing taste make it perfect for gatherings, holidays, or everyday treats. Easy to prepare and always satisfying, this dessert is a reliable favourite you will return to again and again.
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