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
Scale
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.
