If you are craving a sweet, refreshing, and utterly comforting treat, this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Bursting with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and perfectly sliced bananas, it offers a delightful medley of textures and flavors that come together in pure harmony. The classic vanilla wafers add a satisfying crunch, balancing the smooth and fruity elements, turning this dessert into an irresistible crowd-pleaser anytime you want to impress without working too hard.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh staples is the key to making this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe shine. Each ingredient plays an essential role, contributing to texture, taste, or that inviting look that tempts everyone at the table.
- Cold whole milk: Helps the pudding set perfectly rich and creamy, laying the foundation for this dessert’s luscious texture.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Provides the signature silky, dreamy vanilla flavor and thick consistency without fuss.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds a smooth sweetness that beautifully complements the fresh fruit without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of real vanilla elevates the flavor, making every bite sing with warmth and depth.
- Whipped topping or whipped cream: Brings airy lightness to the pudding, balancing its richness and adding a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Vanilla wafers: Classic and crisp, they provide a delightful contrast in texture and subtly enhance the vanilla theme.
- Bananas: Sliced ripe but firm bananas lend natural sweetness and a soft creaminess that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Fresh strawberries: Hulled and sliced strawberries infuse the pudding with vibrant color and a juicy, slightly tart bite that brightens the whole dessert.
How to Make Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the pudding mixture
Start by whisking together the cold whole milk with the instant vanilla pudding mix in a large bowl for about two minutes. This quick step is essential to get the pudding thick and smooth. Then, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until every bit is fully combined, creating a luscious vanilla base you can’t wait to dig into.
Step 2: Fold in whipped topping
Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping (or whipped cream) to the pudding mixture. This adds a lovely lightness that balances the density of the pudding, turning it into a fluffy, creamy dream that sets the tone for all the layers to come.
Step 3: Assemble the layers
In a 9×13-inch dish, begin by laying out a single layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom. On top of that, arrange sliced bananas, followed by a generous layer of fresh sliced strawberries. Spread a layer of the pudding mixture evenly over the fruit. Repeat these layers until you’ve used all your ingredients, ending with a final layer of pudding on top.
Step 4: Add the finishing touches
Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top layer of pudding. For a pretty and inviting finish, decorate with additional sliced strawberries and a few vanilla wafers. Chill the assembled pudding in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best for those flavors to marry beautifully.
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few fresh strawberry slices and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top just before serving is a simple way to make the dessert look inviting and fresh. A small mint leaf here and there adds a pop of green and a hint of freshness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dessert is a star on its own, but if you want to pair it, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a light, crisp salad with tangy citrus dressing. These sides balance the pudding’s rich creaminess with bright, refreshing flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe in individual clear glass jars or parfait glasses. This not only looks beautiful with the layered colors but also makes portion control easy and adds a charming, personal touch for guests or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pudding covered tightly in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a perfect dessert to prepare in advance for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
Freezing this pudding is not recommended due to the fruit and whipped topping, which can become watery or lose texture upon thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
This Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t needed. If you prefer it slightly softer, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat milk for whole milk if you prefer a lighter version, though the pudding may be slightly less creamy. Using reduced-fat whipped topping can also help keep the dessert lighter.
How ripe should the bananas be?
Use bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from browning quickly and to maintain the best texture in the pudding layers.
Is it okay to use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream is a wonderful option and adds a fresh, personal touch to the pudding. Just be sure it’s well chilled and stabilized for the best results.
Can I make this pudding gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the vanilla wafers for a gluten-free alternative. The pudding and fruit layers are naturally gluten-free, making this easy to adapt.
How long should the pudding chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 4 hours is essential to let the layers set and flavors meld. For the best taste and texture, overnight chilling is ideal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe that feels like sunshine on a plate. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and packed with flavors and textures you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Trust me, friends and family will keep asking for this no-bake delight once they’ve tasted its creamy, fruity goodness!
Print
Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, and crunchy vanilla wafers, topped with fluffy whipped cream. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion where a refreshing, fruity dessert is desired.
Ingredients
Pudding Mixture
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups whipped topping or whipped cream
Layers
- 1 box (11 ounces) vanilla wafers
- 3 bananas, sliced
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Then, add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth.
- Incorporate whipped topping: Gently fold in 2 cups of the whipped topping or whipped cream into the pudding mixture, ensuring it is well combined but still light and fluffy.
- Layer ingredients: In a 9×13-inch dish, start by layering vanilla wafers evenly on the bottom. Next, add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of the sliced strawberries. Spread a layer of the prepared pudding mixture over the fruits.
- Repeat layering: Continue layering vanilla wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding mixture until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of pudding on top.
- Add final topping: Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping evenly over the final pudding layer. Garnish with extra sliced strawberries and vanilla wafers if desired for a decorative finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. For best results, chill overnight before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat whipped topping.
- Ensure bananas are ripe but firm to prevent browning during assembly.
- This dessert is best served chilled and enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
