Ever since I started baking, certain recipes have carried a sense of comfort that instantly connects me to fond childhood memories—and Strawberry Banana Pudding is one of those special creations. I remember the first time I combined ripe bananas with juicy strawberries and creamy vanilla pudding. It was an instant hit, not only for its delightful flavor but also for how effortlessly it came together. Over the years, I’ve refined the balance of fruit, creaminess, and texture to create a pudding that is both nostalgic and refreshing. This dessert feels like sunshine in a dish, and every spoonful brings joy to the table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Strawberry Banana Pudding for its perfect harmony of flavors—sweet, slightly tangy strawberries paired with mellow, smooth banana slices, all wrapped in layers of luscious pudding and soft cookies. The creamy texture combined with the fresh fruit creates an irresistible contrast that’s hard to beat. It’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone ask for seconds. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, potluck, or picnic, it brings smiles every time.
Versatile
One of the reasons I often turn to this pudding is because of how flexible it is. You can easily adapt it depending on the season or your preferences. Don’t have strawberries? Use blueberries or peaches. Want it lighter? Swap the vanilla pudding for Greek yogurt. Need it dairy-free? Use a plant-based milk and pudding mix. Whether you serve it in a big dish or layer it into individual cups, it works wonderfully for all occasions—from casual gatherings to more formal events.
Affordable
Another wonderful thing about this recipe is how budget-friendly it is. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy-to-find produce. Bananas and strawberries are typically affordable year-round, and the pudding base comes together using simple items you likely already have. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or expensive equipment. Just a few basics and a little time result in a luxurious dessert that looks and tastes far more indulgent than it costs.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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Ripe bananas (firm but sweet)
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Fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
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Vanilla pudding mix (or homemade vanilla pudding)
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Cold milk (for pudding preparation)
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Whipped topping or whipped cream
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Vanilla wafers or sponge cake slices
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Fresh lemon juice (to prevent banana browning)
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A touch of vanilla extract (for extra depth)
How to Prepare This Recipe
Strawberry Banana Pudding – Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing this Strawberry Banana Pudding is one of my favorite tasks in the kitchen—it’s quick, requires minimal cooking, and is incredibly satisfying to assemble. It’s perfect for beginners or experienced bakers alike. Every layer builds flavor and texture, and the final result is always beautiful and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base
Start by preparing the vanilla pudding according to the package instructions. Typically, this means whisking the pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. I usually let it sit in the fridge for about 10 minutes to set completely. For a more intense vanilla flavor, add a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the mix while whisking.
Step 2: Slice the Fruits
While the pudding sets, wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them evenly and set them aside. Next, peel and slice the bananas into uniform rounds. To keep the bananas from browning, toss them gently in a little lemon juice. This small step helps preserve their color and keeps the layers visually appealing.
Step 3: Create the First Layer
In a large trifle bowl, glass dish, or individual cups, begin with a layer of vanilla wafers or sponge cake slices at the bottom. These form the base and will soak up flavor and moisture as the dessert chills.
Step 4: Add the Banana Layer
Place banana slices evenly over the cookie layer. Try to cover the entire surface so each bite includes the mellow sweetness of banana.
Step 5: Add the Strawberry Layer
Next, spread a layer of sliced strawberries over the bananas. If you’re using individual cups, this is where the layers start to shine visually. The red of the strawberries brings a beautiful contrast.
Step 6: Spoon the Pudding Over the Fruit
Using a spoon or ladle, add a generous layer of vanilla pudding. Make sure it completely covers the fruit. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
Step 7: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layers—vanilla wafers, bananas, strawberries, pudding—until the dish is full or you’ve used all the ingredients. The number of layers depends on the depth of your dish. For a standard trifle bowl, two full rounds are perfect.
Step 8: Top with Whipped Topping
Finish the top layer with a smooth layer of whipped topping or whipped cream. You can also pipe it decoratively or use the back of a spoon to create soft swirls. For an extra touch, add a few banana slices and strawberries as garnish on top.
Step 9: Chill Before Serving
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. Chilling allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Quick and Easy
This dessert takes just about 30 minutes to assemble and doesn’t require any baking. It’s a lifesaver when you’re short on time but want to offer something homemade and impressive. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward—even young helpers can assist with layering.
Customizable
You can adapt this recipe in many ways. Swap vanilla pudding for banana pudding for a stronger banana flavor, or use coconut pudding for a tropical spin. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of whipped topping or use plain whipped cream. You can also use gluten-free cookies for a gluten-sensitive version, or dairy-free milk and pudding mix for a plant-based version.
Popular with Many People
Strawberry Banana Pudding has universal appeal. Kids love the fruity sweetness, adults appreciate the nostalgic flavors, and guests are always impressed with how beautiful it looks. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday dessert table, or a summer party, it’s always well-received and often requested again.
Print
Strawberry Banana Pudding
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a no-bake dessert that combines layers of fresh bananas, strawberries, creamy vanilla pudding, and soft vanilla wafers or sponge cake. It’s a refreshing, nostalgic treat perfect for any occasion—from weekday family meals to festive gatherings. This recipe comes together quickly and is fully customizable to suit dietary needs or taste preferences.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
Ingredients
- 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 box (96g) vanilla pudding mix (instant)
- 3 cups cold milk (for pudding)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2–3 cups vanilla wafers or sponge cake, cut into pieces
- 2 cups whipped topping or whipped cream (non-dairy optional)
- Optional garnish: extra banana and strawberry slices
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until fully blended and smooth. Add the vanilla extract. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the pudding to thicken. - Prepare the fruit:
Slice the bananas into thin, even rounds. Gently toss the banana slices with lemon juice to slow down browning. Set them aside. Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries into thin, even pieces. - Layer the base:
In a large trifle bowl, rectangular glass dish, or individual dessert cups, begin by laying vanilla wafers or sponge cake slices evenly at the bottom. - Add the bananas:
Arrange a layer of banana slices evenly over the cookie base, ensuring the surface is fully covered. - Add the strawberries:
Follow with a layer of sliced strawberries over the bananas, creating a vibrant fruit layer. - Spread the pudding:
Spoon a layer of the prepared vanilla pudding over the fruit, using a spatula to spread it evenly and cover all edges. - Repeat the layers:
Repeat the layers—cookies, bananas, strawberries, pudding—until the dish is filled or the ingredients are used up. Typically, two to three rounds work well. - Finish with topping:
Spread whipped topping or whipped cream over the final layer of pudding. Smooth it out or decorate with piped swirls for an elegant finish. - Chill and serve:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture. Garnish with extra banana and strawberry slices just before serving.
Notes
Tossing the bananas in lemon juice helps maintain their color.
The longer the pudding chills, the more the cookies soften, enhancing the overall texture.
You can use sponge cake or gluten-free cookies as a substitute for the vanilla wafers.
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based pudding mix, milk, and whipped topping.
Adjust sweetness based on the ripeness of your fruit and preference.
- Prep Time: 30
FAQs
Strawberry Banana Pudding – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Strawberry Banana Pudding ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, this dessert tastes even better when made in advance. Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld, and the cookies soften into a cake-like texture. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until serving time.
How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown?
To keep bananas looking fresh, toss the slices gently in a small amount of fresh lemon juice right after slicing. The acidity in the lemon juice slows down oxidation. It doesn’t affect the taste when used lightly and helps maintain the pudding’s visual appeal.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but they must be thawed completely and drained well. Excess liquid from thawed berries can make the pudding watery, so blot them dry with paper towels before layering.
What kind of cookies work best for this recipe?
Vanilla wafers are a classic choice, but you can also use ladyfingers, sponge cake slices, or even shortbread cookies. Just make sure they are soft enough to absorb the pudding over time and not stay too crunchy.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk) and dairy-free pudding mix. Be sure to check the labels. There are also dairy-free whipped toppings available that work wonderfully in place of regular whipped cream.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Definitely. You can opt for a sugar-free or low-sugar pudding mix and skip adding any extra sugar to the whipped topping. You can also rely more on the natural sweetness of the bananas and strawberries if they’re ripe and in season.
How long will this pudding last in the refrigerator?
Strawberry Banana Pudding is best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. After that, the texture may become too soft, and the fruit may lose its freshness. Keep it well-covered to maintain flavor and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
Can I serve this dessert warm?
This pudding is best served chilled. The cool, creamy texture is part of its charm and makes it refreshing. Serving it cold also helps the layers hold their shape better.