Introduction
Strawberry Banana Pudding is the ultimate no-bake dessert that combines layers of creamy pudding, fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and vanilla wafers. This recipe is an easy crowd-pleaser with its delightful combination of fruity flavors and creamy textures. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a casual sweet treat, this dessert is as stunning as it is delicious.
What makes Strawberry Banana Pudding truly special is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dessert that looks like it took hours to make. The fresh fruit adds a burst of natural sweetness, while the pudding and whipped topping make it light and refreshing.
Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time and Servings for Strawberry Banana Pudding
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 8–10
This no-bake dessert comes together in no time and serves a crowd, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Strawberry Banana Pudding
For the Pudding Layers
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub of whipped topping, thawed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
The Fruit and Layers
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)
For the Garnish
- Additional whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries, halved
- Crushed vanilla wafers
These simple ingredients create a creamy, fruity dessert that’s as easy to assemble as it is delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Banana Pudding
1. Make the Pudding Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Alternatively, you can use thawed whipped topping.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the prepared pudding mixture until fully combined. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Fruit and Wafers
- Slice the bananas and strawberries into thin, even pieces. Keep them in separate bowls for easy layering.
- Crush a few vanilla wafers to use as garnish later and set aside.
3. Assemble the Pudding
- In a trifle dish, a large bowl, or individual dessert cups, start by layering vanilla wafers on the bottom.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
- Spread a generous layer of the pudding mixture over the fruit, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Repeat the layers: wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding, until all ingredients are used. Finish with a layer of pudding on top.
4. Chill the Pudding
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, garnish with dollops of whipped cream, halved strawberries, and crushed vanilla wafers for a decorative touch.
This layered Strawberry Banana Pudding is as beautiful as it is delicious, and it’s ready to impress in just a few simple steps.
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Banana Pudding
- Use Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are fully yellow with a few brown spots. They’re sweeter and have the perfect texture for layering.
- Keep Strawberries Fresh: Slice strawberries just before assembling the dessert to keep them fresh and juicy.
- Make It Ahead: This pudding tastes even better when prepared a day in advance, as the wafers soften and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Customize the Layers: Add a layer of crushed vanilla wafers between the fruit for extra texture and crunch.
- Avoid Browning Bananas: To prevent the banana slices from browning, lightly coat them with lemon juice before layering.
- Switch Up the Flavors: Use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla for an extra banana flavor boost.
- Serve Individually: Assemble the pudding in individual jars or cups for a neat and portable presentation.
Follow these tips to ensure your Strawberry Banana Pudding is creamy, flavorful, and picture-perfect every time.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Banana Pudding
- As a Standalone Dessert: Serve this pudding chilled in a large trifle dish or individual dessert cups for an elegant presentation.
- With Fresh Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and a touch of indulgence.
- Topped with Crushed Wafers: Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers over each serving for added crunch.
- Paired with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy this dessert with a warm cup of coffee or a fruity iced tea for a refreshing combination.
- For Parties and Potlucks: Serve in individual mason jars or clear cups for easy grab-and-go desserts that look stunning on the table.
These versatile serving ideas make Strawberry Banana Pudding perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual treat or a celebratory dessert.
Nutrition Information for Strawberry Banana Pudding
The following table provides approximate nutrition per serving (based on 10 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 41 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 26 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
Notes
- Values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
- To reduce calories and fat, substitute whole milk with almond milk or low-fat milk, and use a light whipped topping.
- Additions like extra fruit or toppings may alter the nutrition.
FAQs About Strawberry Banana Pudding
1. Is strawberry and banana a good combination?
Yes, strawberries and bananas are a classic combination! The sweetness of ripe bananas complements the tangy, juicy flavor of strawberries, creating a balanced and delicious pairing perfect for desserts, smoothies, and snacks.
2. What makes bananas not turn brown in pudding?
To prevent bananas from turning brown in pudding, lightly coat the slices with lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering. The acidity slows down the oxidation process, keeping the bananas fresh-looking longer.
3. Why is strawberry banana so popular?
The strawberry-banana combination is popular because it balances sweetness and tanginess perfectly, appealing to a wide range of palates. The duo is also versatile, working well in smoothies, desserts, and breakfast dishes.
4. Can you leave banana pudding in the fridge overnight?
Yes, banana pudding can be left in the fridge overnight. In fact, chilling it overnight enhances the flavors and allows the wafers to soften into a cake-like texture. Just ensure it’s covered to keep it fresh.
5. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture, as too much liquid can make the pudding soggy.
6. How long can Strawberry Banana Pudding be stored?
Strawberry Banana Pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Keep in mind that the bananas may start to brown after the first day, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
7. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use almond milk or coconut milk for the pudding, and substitute the whipped cream with a dairy-free whipped topping. Double-check that your pudding mix is also dairy-free.
8. Can I add other fruits?
Yes, this recipe is highly versatile! You can add fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even pineapple to enhance the flavor and color.
9. Can I use graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers?
Definitely! Graham crackers work well as an alternative to vanilla wafers and add a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
Conclusion
Strawberry Banana Pudding is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining layers of creamy pudding, fresh fruit, and crunchy wafers for a truly irresistible treat. Its no-bake simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for busy days, while its vibrant flavors and textures make it a standout at parties and gatherings.
Whether you’re making it for a potluck, a family celebration, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this dessert is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it chilled with a dollop of whipped cream and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!
Try this Strawberry Banana Pudding recipe today—it’s a fruity, creamy delight that everyone will love.
Recommended Recipes
If you enjoyed this Strawberry Banana Pudding, here are some other delightful dessert ideas to try:
- Strawberry Earthquake Cake – A gooey and fun cake filled with cream cheese swirls and fruity flavors.
- Peach Cobbler Cheesecake – A fusion dessert that combines the best of peach cobbler and creamy cheesecake.
- Toffee Butterscotch Poke Cake – A sweet and moist poke cake filled with rich toffee and butterscotch flavors.
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake – A spiced and comforting cake that’s perfect for fall or any time of the year.
- Hot Fudge Brownie Bread – A chocolate lover’s dream with gooey fudge and brownie goodness.
These recipes pair wonderfully with Strawberry Banana Pudding and are perfect for your next dessert table!
