Strawberry Banana Pudding Dessert a luscious, creamy dessert combining ripe bananas, fresh strawberries, and smooth pudding layers that create a refreshing and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
2 cups vanilla pudding (prepared or homemade)
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
½ cup whipped cream (optional)
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions if using store-bought, or make your own homemade pudding. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
In a serving dish or individual cups, start by layering a spoonful of vanilla pudding.
Add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries on top of the pudding.
Sprinkle a layer of crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers over the fruit.
Repeat the layering process—pudding, fruit, and crushed wafers—until the dish is filled, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
If desired, spread whipped cream over the top layer for extra creaminess.
Garnish with a few fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves for a pop of color.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and there is no cooking time involved. Including chilling time, the total time before serving is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes like to switch up the fruit—adding blueberries or raspberries can be a tasty twist. For a richer dessert, I’ve used chocolate pudding instead of vanilla, which pairs beautifully with strawberries and bananas. Using crushed graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers adds a slightly different crunch and flavor. For a dairy-free version, I’ve replaced pudding and whipped cream with coconut-based alternatives. You can also add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store this dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it keeps well for up to 2 days. Because it’s a chilled pudding dessert, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended—it’s best served cold to maintain the texture and freshness of the fruit.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, I usually prepare it a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?
Crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits work great as a substitute, adding a nice texture and flavor.
Is it possible to use frozen fruit?
You can, but I recommend thawing and draining any excess liquid from the frozen fruit before layering to avoid sogginess.
Can I use instant pudding mix?
Absolutely, instant pudding mix works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure to follow the package instructions.
How can I make this dessert vegan?
Use a plant-based pudding and whipped cream alternative, and substitute the wafers for a vegan-friendly crunchy option.
Conclusion
This strawberry banana pudding dessert is one of my go-to treats when I want something quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing. The layers of creamy pudding, sweet fruit, and crunchy wafers combine perfectly to create a delightful texture and flavor experience. Whether for a family dinner, party, or just a simple indulgence, I find it’s always a hit and easy to customize. I encourage trying different fruits or pudding flavors to keep it exciting.
Recipe:
Strawberry Banana Pudding Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luscious, creamy dessert combining ripe bananas, fresh strawberries, and smooth pudding layers that create a refreshing and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
2 cups vanilla pudding (prepared or homemade)
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
½ cup whipped cream (optional)
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions if using store-bought, or make your own homemade pudding. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- In a serving dish or individual cups, start by layering a spoonful of vanilla pudding.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries on top of the pudding.
- Sprinkle a layer of crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers over the fruit.
- Repeat the layering process—pudding, fruit, and crushed wafers—until the dish is filled, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
- If desired, spread whipped cream over the top layer for extra creaminess.
- Garnish with a few fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set.
Notes
This is a no-bake dessert, ideal for warm days or quick treats without heating the kitchen.
Use crushed graham crackers as an alternative to vanilla wafers for a different crunch and flavor.
For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute pudding and whipped cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegan-friendly wafers.
The dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; serve chilled.
Frozen fruit can be used if thawed and drained to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake, layering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
