There’s something magical about a good pudding. It’s creamy, comforting, and offers that perfect balance of sweetness and richness. But when you add fresh fruits like strawberries and bananas to the mix, you get a dessert that’s not only delightful but also feels light and refreshing. Strawberry Banana Pudding is the kind of dessert that brings back childhood memories while adding a vibrant, fruity twist that makes it feel brand new.

I first stumbled upon this delightful combination at a family barbecue. My aunt had prepared a beautiful trifle dish filled with layers of vanilla pudding, sliced bananas, strawberries, and vanilla wafers. One spoonful, and I was hooked. The contrast between the creamy pudding and the fresh, juicy fruit was just heavenly.

Since then, I’ve made my own version countless times, perfecting the layers, the sweetness, and the overall balance of flavors. What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly easy it is to make. It’s a no-bake dessert, which means you can whip it up without turning on your oven. And whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, it always steals the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Banana Pudding is a dessert worth raving about, and here’s why:

Easy and Quick to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a gorgeous, creamy pudding ready in no time.
No-Bake Recipe: Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. Just mix, layer, chill, and enjoy!
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of strawberries, bananas, and vanilla wafers in a rich, creamy pudding is an instant hit. Both kids and adults can’t resist it.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert actually tastes better the longer it chills, so feel free to make it the night before serving.
Versatile and Customizable: While strawberries and bananas are a match made in heaven, you can easily swap in other fruits or even add chocolate chips or caramel drizzle for a fun twist.

The balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures makes this dessert incredibly satisfying. The strawberries bring a slight tartness, the bananas add their sweet, tropical essence, and the vanilla wafers provide that much-needed crunch that softens beautifully as it chills.

Health Benefits

Although Strawberry Banana Pudding is undeniably a treat, it’s nice to know there are some health perks hidden in this delightful dessert:

Rich in Antioxidants: Fresh strawberries are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and polyphenols, which help protect your cells from damage.
Potassium Boost: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which is essential for heart health, muscle function, and regulating blood pressure.
Calcium Source: Thanks to the heavy whipping cream, condensed milk, and pudding mix, this dessert provides a decent amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Energy Provider: The natural sugars from bananas and strawberries, combined with the carbs from vanilla wafers, make this a great energy-boosting dessert.
Immune Support: With vitamin C from strawberries and bananas, this pudding helps support your immune system, especially during the colder months.

While this dessert is definitely indulgent, its fruit content does offer some nutritional benefits. Plus, you can always make healthier adjustments, such as using low-fat milk or substituting the whipped cream with lighter options.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: At least 4 hours (Overnight is best)
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10-12 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 320
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 14g
Sugar: 28g
Calcium: 15% of Daily Value

Keep in mind, the nutritional information may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands. Adjustments like using sugar-free pudding mix or low-fat milk can also impact the final values.

Ingredients List

For the Pudding:

2 cups heavy whipping cream (for rich, fluffy texture)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (adds smoothness and sweetness)
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (creamy base)
2 cups cold milk (for mixing with pudding mix)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds warmth and depth of flavor)

For the Layers:

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (ripe and juicy for the best taste)
2 ripe bananas, sliced (firm yet sweet for perfect texture)
1 box (about 12 oz) vanilla wafers (classic crunch that balances the creamy pudding)

These ingredients are all super easy to find at any grocery store, making this dessert a hassle-free choice.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the pudding mixture. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. Set aside.

Whip the Heavy Cream

In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture using a spatula. Continue folding until you have a smooth, creamy consistency.

Layer the Pudding

In a trifle dish or a 9×13-inch baking dish, place a single layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
Arrange a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries over the wafers.
Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers, spreading it evenly.

Repeat the Layers

Add another layer of vanilla wafers, followed by the remaining banana and strawberry slices.
Spread the rest of the pudding mixture over the top and smooth it out for a clean, finished look.

Chill the Pudding

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor and texture, let it chill overnight.

Serve and Enjoy

Just before serving, garnish with additional strawberries, bananas, or crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
Scoop into bowls or serve directly from the dish for a beautiful layered presentation.

How to Serve

Strawberry Banana Pudding is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator. The creamy texture paired with the fresh fruit makes it a refreshing dessert, especially during warmer months. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your presentation:

Individual Cups: Layer the pudding in small dessert glasses or mason jars for a more sophisticated touch.
Trifle Dish: Show off those beautiful layers by serving it in a clear glass trifle bowl.
Garnish Ideas: Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream, a whole strawberry, or a slice of banana. A sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top also adds a bit of crunch.
Family-Style: Serve directly from a large baking dish at potlucks or gatherings, letting everyone scoop out their own portion.

Regardless of how you present it, this dessert is sure to impress. The vibrant colors and creamy layers make it a showstopper, and it tastes even better than it looks.

Pairing Suggestions

To make your Strawberry Banana Pudding experience even more delightful, consider these pairing ideas:

Beverages: Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness.
Dessert Bar: Pair with other fruity desserts like berry cobbler or peach crisp for a colorful dessert spread.
Toppings: A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce adds a decadent touch, while a sprinkle of toasted coconut brings out a tropical vibe.
Light and Fresh Sides: A fresh fruit salad or a side of shortbread cookies complements the creamy texture and balances the richness.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration:

Store leftover pudding in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it chills, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing:

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pudding may change and become watery after thawing. The fresh fruit can also become mushy.

Reheating:

This dessert is meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you’re looking to freshen it up, simply give it a gentle stir and add a few fresh strawberries and bananas on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Whipping Step: Make sure to whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding it into the pudding mixture. This ensures a light, airy texture.
Overmixing the Pudding: Fold the whipped cream gently to maintain the fluffiness. Overmixing can make the pudding dense.
Using Unripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe and sweet. Underripe bananas can be slightly bitter and won’t blend well with the creamy pudding.
Not Letting It Chill Long Enough: Chilling for at least 4 hours is crucial to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften. Overnight is even better.
Leaving Sliced Bananas Exposed: To prevent them from browning, make sure the bananas are well covered with pudding.

Pro Tips

Add a Flavor Twist: Mix a tablespoon of strawberry jam into the pudding mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
Use Fresh, Ripe Fruit: Fresh strawberries and bananas make all the difference in taste and texture. Avoid frozen fruits as they can release excess moisture.
Toast the Wafers: Lightly toasting the vanilla wafers before layering can add a bit more crunch and flavor depth.
Enhance the Whipped Cream: Adding a teaspoon of powdered sugar while whipping the cream gives it a subtle sweetness and stabilizes the texture.
Serve at the Perfect Temperature: The pudding is best served straight from the fridge for a refreshing bite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Yes, you can use homemade vanilla pudding. Just make sure it is fully chilled and thickened before layering.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better when prepared a day in advance, as the flavors meld and the wafers soften.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

4. How can I make this dessert healthier?

Use light whipped cream or low-fat milk, and opt for sugar-free pudding mix. You can also reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk.

5. Can I add other fruits?

Yes, you can add fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even mango slices for a tropical twist.

6. Why did my pudding turn out watery?

This usually happens if the pudding mix and milk aren’t whisked properly or if the whipped cream isn’t thick enough. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

7. Can I substitute the vanilla wafers?

Graham crackers or shortbread cookies can work well if you’re out of vanilla wafers.

8. Will the bananas turn brown?

To minimize browning, make sure they are well covered with pudding. You can also brush them with a little lemon juice before layering.

9. How long will the pudding last in the fridge?

It stays good for up to 4 days, but the texture is best within the first 2 days.

10. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free vanilla wafers or cookies in place of regular ones.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Strawberry Banana Pudding is a dessert that effortlessly combines creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements into one irresistible dish. It’s the perfect choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy night at home when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. The refreshing combination of strawberries and bananas with smooth vanilla pudding and crispy wafers is a match made in dessert heaven.

I love how versatile this recipe is. Whether you’re making it for a summer picnic or adding it to your holiday dessert spread, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so easy to put together that even beginner cooks can impress their guests with it.

Now it’s your turn to make this luscious Strawberry Banana Pudding! Gather your ingredients and get started—you won’t regret it. Once you try it, share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. You can also follow me for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes that your whole family will love. Happy cooking and happy eating!

Strawberry Banana Pudding

Author: Julianne Carter
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy, fruity delight featuring layers of rich vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers. The perfect no-bake dessert for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Layers:
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box (about 12 oz) vanilla wafers

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Base:
Whisk the pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
Fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until creamy and well combined.
Layer the Dessert:
In a trifle dish or 9×13-inch baking dish, add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by sliced bananas and strawberries.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding.
Chill:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for best results.
Serve:
Garnish with extra strawberries, bananas, or crushed wafers before serving.

Notes

Best served chilled for optimal flavor and texture.
For extra freshness, add freshly sliced fruits just before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: No cooking required (Chilling: 4 hours)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American