Description
This delightful Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy, no-bake dessert combining layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and strawberries with a luscious homemade vanilla pudding and cream cheese mixture. Perfectly chilled, it’s a refreshing and crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to assemble and sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6–8 bananas, sliced
- 1 container strawberries, chopped
Pudding Mixture
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or equal amount sweetened whipped cream)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line a 13×9-inch dish with one box of Vanilla Wafers, creating an even bottom layer.
- Add Bananas: Spread sliced bananas evenly over the layer of vanilla wafers for a fruity foundation.
- Make the Pudding Mixture: In a bowl, combine the milk and French Vanilla pudding mix. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and thickened, forming the pudding base.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until creamy and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Combine Mixtures: Mix the cream cheese mixture into the pudding mixture until smooth and well blended, creating a rich, creamy filling.
- Assemble the Pudding: Pour the combined pudding mixture over the bananas and vanilla wafers in the dish, spreading evenly.
- Add Strawberries: Sprinkle the chopped strawberries evenly over the pudding layer for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
- Top with Vanilla Wafers: Add the second box of Vanilla Wafers as the final top layer, giving the pudding a delightful crunch.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for 2 to 3 hours until set. Serve chilled for a creamy, refreshing dessert.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and optimal texture.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier blending and a smoother filling.
- To avoid sogginess, assemble the pudding shortly before chilling; however, allowing it to chill helps flavors meld.
- You can substitute fresh whipped cream for the frozen whipped topping if preferred.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
