Strawberry Banana Pudding

Sweet, creamy, and full of fruity flavor, this Strawberry Banana Pudding is a delightful twist on a Southern classic. With layers of fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, vanilla wafers, and a rich, homemade pudding, this no-bake dessert is as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or anytime you want a make-ahead treat that tastes like sunshine in a dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No-Bake & Easy – No oven needed, and ready in under 30 minutes
Fruity & Creamy – Perfectly balanced with fresh fruit and silky pudding
Make-Ahead Friendly – Ideal for prepping the night before
Family Favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike
Customizable – Use your favorite cookies or switch up the fruit

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pudding Layer:
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1½ cups heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping)
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Layers:
1 box vanilla wafers
3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
1½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Extra whipped cream or topping (for garnish)
Optional: mint leaves or extra fruit for decorating

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl
Spatula
Measuring cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pudding
In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form (or use whipped topping). Gently fold whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Chill while you prep the layers.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
Slice bananas and strawberries just before assembling to keep them fresh. Pat strawberries dry to avoid excess moisture in the pudding.

Step 3: Layer the Pudding
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, begin layering: Start with a layer of vanilla wafers. Add half the banana slices, then half the strawberries. Spread half the pudding mixture evenly on top. Repeat the layers: wafers, bananas, strawberries, and remaining pudding.

Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with extra whipped cream, crushed wafers, and fruit before serving. Slice and serve chilled.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Banana Pudding
Use Ripe but Firm Bananas – Sweet flavor without turning mushy
Layer Neatly – Especially important in a trifle bowl for a pretty presentation
Let It Chill – At least 4 hours allows flavors to meld and wafers to soften
Make It Lighter – Use low-fat milk and whipped topping for a lighter version
Add a Crunch – Try shortbread cookies or graham crackers as an alternative to vanilla wafers

Serving Suggestions
Picnic or BBQ Dessert – Always a hit on a hot day
Holiday Dessert Table – Great for Easter, Mother’s Day, or summer holidays
Mini Desserts – Assemble in mason jars or cups for individual servings
Party Tray – Add this to a spread with brownies, cookies, and lemon bars
Kids’ Favorite – Sweet, creamy, and fun to eat

How to Store & Make Ahead

Storing:
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Best served within 24–48 hours for freshest fruit.

Freezing:
Not recommended—the texture of the pudding and fruit won’t hold up well after thawing.

Make-Ahead:
Fully assemble the day before and garnish just before serving for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
   Yes! Just whip 1½ cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Can I use banana pudding mix?
   Sure—if you want an extra banana flavor, go for banana cream pudding.
3. What’s the best dish to use?
   A 9×13-inch baking dish or a trifle bowl works great for layering.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Use a plant-based milk and whipped topping substitute. Choose a dairy-free pudding mix.
5. How do I keep bananas from browning?
   Layer them close to the pudding and avoid too much air exposure. You can also lightly brush them with lemon juice.

Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Banana Pudding is a refreshing, creamy dessert that brings together the best of summer fruit and classic Southern comfort. It’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and always leaves the dish empty. Whether for a backyard cookout or a weekend treat, this no-bake pudding is pure joy in every layer.

Try it today—you’ll want to make it again and again!

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Cuisine: American / No-Bake Dessert

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 of 12):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 27g | Sodium: 190mg

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