Some of my earliest memories are tied up in the scent of my grandma’s kitchen. I can still feel the flour dusting my cheeks and the weight of a wooden rolling pin in my small hands. Grandma was the queen of Southern desserts, and her banana pudding was legendary.
For years, I made it her way, cherishing every creamy, classic bite. But one sunny afternoon, with a basket of fresh-picked strawberries from the Asheville market, I had an idea. I wondered what would happen if I married her classic with the bright, juicy flavor of summer berries.
That’s the day this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream was born. It’s a delightful twist on a timeless favorite, a dessert that feels both nostalgic and new. This no-bake dream dessert is now the most requested treat at my bakery, Sweet Magnolia, and I’m so excited to share my special Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream recipe with you.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for this recipe, but let’s start with the most obvious: it is absolutely divine. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy bananas creates a flavor profile that is simply unbeatable.
Moreover, this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is a completely no-bake recipe, which makes it perfect for warm weather or for when you simply don’t want to turn on the oven. You get all the glory of a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort. It’s the ultimate make-ahead dish for potlucks, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight treat.
The layers in this lush strawberry banana pudding are gorgeous, with vibrant red strawberries, pale yellow bananas, and fluffy white cream. It truly is a feast for the eyes before it even touches your lips. We’re confident that this incredible Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the most delicious Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream, you’ll want to gather fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Cream Cheese: 1 (8-ounce) block, softened to room temperature
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 (14-ounce) can
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: 1 (5.1-ounce) box, just the dry mix
- Whole Milk: 1 ½ cups, cold
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 2 cups, cold
- Powdered Sugar: ½ cup
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, divided
- Vanilla Wafers: 1 (11-ounce) box
- Fresh Bananas: 4-5 large, ripe but firm
- Fresh Strawberries: 1 pound, hulled and sliced
Substitutions & Variations
While this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream recipe is perfect as is, you can easily adapt it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Cookies: If you don’t have vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies or even golden Oreos (with the cream removed) work wonderfully. For a different spin, try using graham crackers to build the layers of your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream.
- Pudding Flavor: While vanilla is classic, feel free to experiment! Cheesecake-flavored or white chocolate instant pudding mix would both be fantastic substitutions that complement the fruit in this dreamy pudding dessert.
- Cream Topping: In a pinch, you can substitute a large tub of frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed, for the homemade whipped cream. It’s a great shortcut for an equally delicious Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream.
- Add a Crunch: For extra texture, consider sprinkling a layer of toasted chopped pecans or almonds between the pudding and whipped cream. It adds a lovely, nutty contrast. You could also make a graham cracker crust base for a different take on this dessert.
- Go All-In on Strawberry: For an even more intense berry flavor, try using strawberry-flavored cream cheese. It truly enhances the strawberry notes in this fantastic pudding recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to assemble your very own stunning Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream. Take your time with the layers; the presentation is half the fun!
- Make the Pudding Base: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps, about 2 minutes. Next, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and beat on medium speed until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
- Add the Pudding Mix: Sprinkle the dry instant vanilla pudding mix into the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until it’s just combined. Then, slowly stream in the cold milk while mixing on low. Once all the milk is added, increase the speed to medium-high and beat for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is thick and smooth. Place this pudding mixture in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the whipped cream.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate, chilled mixing bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using the whisk attachment, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
- Fold It All Together: Gently fold about two-thirds of the homemade whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture. Use a spatula and fold until there are no streaks remaining. This lightens the pudding base, giving the Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream its signature airy texture. Reserve the remaining third of the whipped cream for the topping.
- Start Layering: Now for the fun part—assembling the Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream! Grab a large trifle bowl or a 9×13 inch glass dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom. This helps the first layer of cookies stay in place. Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers to cover the pudding.
- Add the Fruit: Top the vanilla wafers with a single layer of sliced bananas, followed by a single layer of sliced strawberries.
- Continue Building: Spread half of the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the fruit. Repeat the layers: vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, sliced strawberries. Then, spread the final layer of the pudding mixture on top. Your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is almost complete!
- Top and Chill: Carefully spread the reserved whipped cream over the top layer of pudding. You can create beautiful swirls with the back of a spoon. Garnish with additional cookie crumbles, fresh strawberry slices, or banana slices. For the best flavor, cover and chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the cookies to soften and the flavors of your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream to meld together beautifully.
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few of my favorite bakery secrets to ensure your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream turns out perfectly every single time.
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is non-negotiable! Softened cream cheese blends seamlessly into the pudding base, preventing any lumps. A smooth base is key to the “dream” texture of this dessert.
- Choose the Right Bananas: Select bananas that are ripe (with a few brown spots) for the best flavor, but still firm enough to hold their shape when sliced. Overly mushy bananas can make your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream watery.
- Chill Your Tools: For the fluffiest whipped cream, place your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for about 15 minutes before you start whipping. Cold tools help the cream whip up faster and hold its volume better.
- Don’t Rush the Chill Time: I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream chill for at least 4 hours is crucial. This time allows the vanilla wafers to soften to a perfect, cake-like consistency. Overnight is even better!
- Garnish Just Before Serving: To keep your toppings fresh and beautiful, add any final garnishes like fresh banana slices or cookie crumbles right before you serve. Bananas, in particular, will brown if they sit out for too long. If you must garnish ahead, you can lightly brush the banana slices with lemon juice to slow the browning process. This will ensure your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream looks as good as it tastes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Proper storage is essential to keep your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream tasting fresh and delicious. Since this is a chilled dessert, there’s no reheating involved.
To Store: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it gently against the surface of the whipped cream to prevent a skin from forming. Your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep in mind that the bananas will continue to brown and the cookies will get softer over time, so it is best enjoyed within the first 48 hours. I do not recommend freezing this dessert, as the pudding and fresh fruit will not thaw well, resulting in a watery texture.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is a spectacular standalone dessert, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple accompaniments. For a casual gathering, serve it alongside a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of iced tea.
If you’re making it part of a larger dessert spread, consider pairing it with something that offers a contrasting texture or flavor, like my Crispy Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies or a simple Lemon Pound Cake. The bright, creamy flavors of this stellar Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream make it the perfect finale to a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner.
FAQs
Can I make this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is even better when made in advance. Preparing it the night before you plan to serve it gives all the flavors time to meld together and allows the cookies to soften perfectly. It’s the ideal make-ahead party dessert.
How do I prevent my bananas from turning brown?
Bananas naturally oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. While they are mostly covered by the pudding in this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream recipe, you can lightly toss the slices in a small amount of lemon or pineapple juice before layering. The acidity helps slow down the browning process without significantly altering the taste.
Can I use a different kind of fruit in this pudding dream recipe?
Of course! While the strawberry and banana combination is classic, feel free to get creative. A mix of summer berries like raspberries and blueberries would be a delicious alternative.
You could even try a tropical version with mango and pineapple for a different spin on this dream pudding. Just be sure to use fruits that hold their shape well.
Why is my Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream runny?
A runny pudding can happen for a few reasons. First, ensure you used instant pudding mix, not the cook-and-serve kind. Second, make sure your milk and heavy cream were very cold.
Finally, be sure you beat the pudding mixture long enough for it to become thick before you start folding in the whipped cream. Following the steps for this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream carefully will yield a thick, creamy result.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
The nutritional information for this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is an estimate, based on a serving size of 1/12th of the recipe. Actual values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 65 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Sodium | 410 mg |
| Sugar | 48 g |
Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
A delightful twist on a classic Southern banana pudding, this no-bake dessert features luscious layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a homemade whipped cream topping. It’s an easy, make-ahead treat perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: 1 (8-ounce) block, softened to room temperature
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 (14-ounce) can
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: 1 (5.1-ounce) box, just the dry mix
- Whole Milk: 1 ½ cups, cold
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 2 cups, cold
- Powdered Sugar: ½ cup
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, divided
- Vanilla Wafers: 1 (11-ounce) box
- Fresh Bananas: 4-5 large, ripe but firm
- Fresh Strawberries: 1 pound, hulled and sliced
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps, about 2 minutes
- Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and beat on medium speed until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl
- Sprinkle the dry instant vanilla pudding mix into the cream cheese mixture and beat on low speed until just combined
- Slowly stream in the cold milk while mixing on low. Once all the milk is added, increase the speed to medium-high and beat for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is thick and smooth. Place this mixture in the refrigerator
- In a separate, chilled mixing bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form
- Gently fold about two-thirds of the homemade whipped cream into the chilled pudding mixture until no streaks remai
- In a large trifle bowl or a 9×13 inch glass dish, spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom. Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers on top
- Top the wafers with a single layer of sliced bananas, followed by a single layer of sliced strawberries
- Spread half of the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the fruit. Repeat the layers: vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, sliced strawberries
- Spread the final layer of the pudding mixture on top
- Carefully spread the reserved one-third of whipped cream over the top layer of pudding. Garnish as desired
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving
Notes
Pro Tip: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps.
Pro Tip: Use bananas that are ripe for flavor but still firm to hold their shape.
Pro Tip: Chill your mixing bowl and whisk for 15 minutes before making whipped cream for better volume.
Pro Tip: Do not rush the chilling time; it is crucial for the cookies to soften and flavors to meld.
Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh fruit just before serving to prevent browning. A little lemon juice on banana slices can help.
Variation: Substitute vanilla wafers with shortbread cookies, golden Oreos, or graham crackers.
Variation: Try cheesecake-flavored or white chocolate instant pudding mix.
Variation: Use a tub of frozen whipped topping (thawed) as a shortcut for homemade whipped cream.
Variation: Add a layer of toasted chopped pecans or almonds for a crunchy texture.
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12th of the recipe
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 48 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg