Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was sifting through my pantry, a burst of inspiration hit me—why not elevate the classic banana pudding by adding vibrant, juicy strawberries? That’s how I created my Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding, a no-bake dessert that combines layers of velvety vanilla pudding with mouthwatering fruit. This delightful treat not only satisfies your sweet cravings, but it also brings a refreshing twist perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The creamy texture, complemented by crunchy cookie crumbles, will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights! Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat? Why is this Strawberry Banana Pudding a must-try? Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet strawberries and ripe bananas brings a burst of freshness that elevates the classic pudding experience. No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for busy lives, this dessert requires minimal effort without sacrificing taste. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether at a potluck or a family dinner, everyone will want seconds! Versatile and Fun: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or swap in a lighter yogurt to suit personal preferences. Quick Assembly: You’ll have this delicious dessert ready to chill in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings! Strawberry Banana Pudding Ingredients For the Pudding Mixture • Vanilla Pudding Mix – Provides the creamy base; substituting with instant vanilla pudding makes for quicker prep. • Milk – Adds moisture and helps dissolve the pudding mix; whole or 2% milk is best for richness, but almond or oat milk works for a dairy-free option. • Sweetened Condensed Milk – Enhances creaminess and sweetness; mix heavy cream with sugar for a less sweet alternative. • Whipped Cream/Whipped Topping – Incorporates air for a light, fluffy texture; homemade adds flavor, or choose a dairy-free version for alternatives. For the Fruit Layers • Ripe Bananas – Offers natural sweetness and creaminess; choose slightly firm bananas to prevent mushiness. • Fresh Strawberries – Adds tartness and vibrant color; feel free to use blueberries or raspberries for a delightful variation. For the Crunchy Layer • Crushed Cookies (e.g., Nilla Wafers) – Provides crunch and sweetness; opt for gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free version of this Strawberry Banana Pudding. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk them together vigorously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth. Let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken to a velvety consistency that will serve as the delightful base for your Strawberry Banana Pudding. Step 2: Fold in Whipped Cream Once the pudding has thickened, gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula. This should be done with a light hand to create a fluffy mixture. Aim for a consistent blend without overmixing, which could deflate the whipped cream. The result should be a creamy, airy filling that beautifully complements the fruit layers. Step 3: Prepare the Fruit While the pudding mixture is resting, wash and slice your fresh strawberries and ripe bananas into thin, evenly-sized pieces. Aim for about ¼-inch thickness to ensure balanced layering. Having the fruit ready will help you assemble the Strawberry Banana Pudding quickly and keep it visually appealing when served. Step 4: Assemble the Layers In a large serving dish, begin layering your ingredients. Start with a generous layer of pudding mixture at the bottom, followed by evenly spaced slices of strawberries and bananas. Sprinkle crushed cookies on top for an added crunch. Continue layering until you reach the top, finishing with pudding and a sprinkle of fruit and cookie crumbles for a decorative touch. Step 5: Chill to Perfection Cover the assembled Strawberry Banana Pudding with plastic wrap or a lid to keep the flavors from mingling too much. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. Chilling not only enhances the flavors but also allows the pudding to set nicely, creating a creamy texture that is simply irresistible. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy When ready to serve, remove the pudding from the refrigerator and allow it to sit for a few minutes at room temperature for easier scooping. Serve in individual cups or bowls, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or extra cookie crumbles for an appealing presentation. Your Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding is now ready to be enjoyed! Strawberry Banana Pudding Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and personalize your dessert experience with these delightful variations! Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk and whipped cream with almond or coconut milk and a dairy-free whipped topping for a deliciously creamy, plant-based version. Flavor Twists: Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the pudding mixture for a flavor boost that complements the fruit beautifully. Berry Medley: Swap out strawberries for a mix of your favorite berries, like blueberries or raspberries, which can add a colorful and tangy burst! Sweetness Control: Reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk and incorporate honey or agave syrup instead for a lightly sweetened twist. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, between the layers for added texture and a satisfying crunch. Greek Yogurt: Replace whipped cream with Greek yogurt to create a healthier, protein-packed option that maintains a delightful creaminess. Seasonal Swaps: During summertime, try adding ripe peaches or fresh mango slices instead of bananas for a tropical flair. Chocolate Lover: Drizzle some chocolate syrup over layers or fold in mini chocolate chips for those who crave a chocolatey treat amidst the fruits. With these options, you’ll have the chance to make this Strawberry Banana Pudding uniquely yours! And if you’re interested in trying out other fruit-inspired desserts, check out my Tropical Strawberry Banana or Chocolate Chip Banana recipes! What to Serve with Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding From summer picnics to cozy family gatherings, building the perfect meal around this delightful dessert elevates any occasion. Fresh Fruit Salad: An assortment of seasonal fruits adds brightness, enhancing the juicy strawberries and bananas in the pudding. A light, refreshing contrast that balances dessert well. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce over the pudding creates a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore. Sweet and creamy, yet with an alluring bitterness from the chocolate. Homemade Whipped Cream: Fluffy and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a luxurious touch while complementing the pudding’s creamy layers. It adds a touch of elegance that everyone will appreciate. Buttery Shortbread Cookies: Crunchy and crumbly, these cookies provide a delightful texture contrast to the pudding. They’re also perfect for dipping and add an irresistible buttery flavor. Mint Iced Tea: Crisp and refreshing, a glass of mint iced tea enhances the fruity flavors of the pudding while keeping the palate refreshed. It’s a fragrant, soothing drink choice for any meal. Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of tangy lemon sorbet offers a rejuvenating palate cleanser, balancing the sweetness of the pudding beautifully. It’s a cool, invigorating finish to the meal. Cheesecake Bites: Creamy and tangy, mini cheesecake bites elevate the dessert experience, presenting a richer profile that pairs well with strawberries. Each bite is a little pop of indulgence! Expert Tips for Strawberry Banana Pudding • Banana Selection: Choose bananas that are slightly firm, as overripe bananas can make the pudding mushy and affect the texture. • Chilling Time: For the best flavor and consistency, let your Strawberry Banana Pudding chill overnight. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. • Folding Technique: Use a spatula to gently fold in the whipped cream; don’t over-mix. Maintaining the airiness will ensure a light and fluffy pudding. • Layering Strategy: Alternate layers of pudding and fruit neatly to create visual appeal. This adds texture and makes for beautiful servings. • Cookie Variations: Experiment with different types of cookies; gluten-free options work wonderfully without losing the delightful crunch factor. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sweetened condensed milk, then refrigerate. Slice your strawberries and bananas the day you plan to serve them to prevent browning, but you can also crush the cookies ahead of time. Once you’re ready to assemble, simply layer the pudding, fruit, and cookies, then chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort! How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Banana Pudding Fridge: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best taste and texture, enjoy it fresh! Freezer: While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the fruit’s texture, you can freeze the pudding mixture (without fruit) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving, then layer fresh fruit. Reheating: Simply allow the pudding to sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier serving. Avoid microwaving, as it changes the texture of the pudding. Best Usage: For optimal flavor, consume the assembled Strawberry Banana Pudding within the first few days. Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe FAQs How do I select the best bananas and strawberries for my pudding? When choosing bananas, look for ones that are slightly firm with no dark spots all over; this ensures they’ll hold their shape and texture in the pudding. For strawberries, select ripe ones that are bright red and free of blemishes. They should also be fragrant, indicating freshness. If you can’t get fresh strawberries, frozen berries can be a suitable substitute, although they may alter the texture slightly. How should I store leftover Strawberry Banana Pudding? Absolutely! Cover any leftover Strawberry Banana Pudding tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, to maintain the best flavor and texture, it’s best consumed within the first 2 days. Remember that the bananas may brown slightly, but they still taste delicious! Can I freeze Strawberry Banana Pudding? While it’s not ideal to freeze the assembled pudding due to the texture of the fruit, you can freeze the pudding mixture (without the fruit) for up to 1 month. To do this, pour the pudding into an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, layer it with fresh fruit just before serving for the best experience! What if the whipped cream in my pudding mixture deflates/doesn’t hold up? If your whipped cream has deflated, don’t worry! You can always whip up a fresh batch of cream, making sure to use chilled equipment for the best results. Fold it into the pudding mixture using a spatula, and watch your pudding transform! Remember, the key is to fold gently, ensuring that you don’t lose that airy texture. Are there any dietary considerations for this Strawberry Banana Pudding? Yes, definitely! For a gluten-free option, simply choose gluten-free cookies for your crunchy layer. If someone has dairy allergies, you can substitute cow’s milk with almond or oat milk, and replace the whipped cream with a dairy-free whipped topping. Always consider individual dietary preferences, as the recipe is quite versatile! Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh? Sure! While fresh fruit offers the best taste and texture, you can absolutely use frozen fruit in a pinch. Just be aware that they may release some moisture as they thaw, which could slightly alter the pudding’s consistency. If using frozen strawberries or bananas, consider mixing them in just before serving to maintain the best appearance and texture. Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding You'll Crave Again and Again Indulge in creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding, a refreshing no-bake dessert combining velvety layers and crunchy cookie crumbles. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 cupsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pudding Mixture1 box Vanilla Pudding Mix substituting with instant vanilla pudding for quicker prep2 cups Milk whole or 2% milk is best for richness1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk mix heavy cream with sugar for a less sweet alternative2 cups Whipped Cream/Whipped Topping homemade adds flavor, or choose a dairy-free version for alternativesFor the Fruit Layers2 medium Ripe Bananas choose slightly firm bananas to prevent mushiness2 cups Fresh Strawberries feel free to use blueberries or raspberries for a delightful variationFor the Crunchy Layer1 cup Crushed Cookies (e.g., Nilla Wafers) opt for gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free version Equipment mixing bowlspatulaServing Dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Strawberry Banana PuddingIn a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk together for about 2 minutes until smooth.Once thickened, gently fold in the whipped cream using a spatula, aiming for a consistent blend without overmixing.Wash and slice your fresh strawberries and ripe bananas into thin pieces, about ¼-inch thickness.In a large serving dish, layer the pudding mixture, followed by slices of strawberries and bananas, and sprinkle crushed cookies on top.Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set.When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for easier scooping, then serve. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best flavor, let your Strawberry Banana Pudding chill overnight. Consume within 3 days for optimal taste and texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
