This Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy, fruity twist on the classic banana pudding, with layers of sweetened cream cheese, fresh bananas, strawberries, and vanilla wafers. Perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting dessert for any occasion, it combines the richness of pudding with the freshness of fruit and the crunch of wafers for a deliciously indulgent treat.
Ingredients
-
2 boxes Vanilla Wafers:
These provide the classic crunchy layer in the pudding. -
6 to 8 bananas, sliced:
Fresh bananas add a soft texture and sweetness to the pudding. -
2 cups milk:
Used to make the pudding mixture smooth and creamy. -
1 container strawberries, chopped:
Fresh strawberries give the pudding a fresh, fruity pop of flavor. -
1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding mix:
This forms the base of the creamy pudding layer. -
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese:
Cream cheese adds richness and a velvety texture to the mixture. -
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk:
Sweetened condensed milk provides extra sweetness and creaminess. -
1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream):
This lightens and fluffifies the cream cheese mixture, making it airy and smooth.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Line the bottom of a 13×9-inch dish with one bag of Vanilla Wafers.
- Evenly layer the sliced bananas on top of the wafers.
Step 2: Make the Pudding
- In a bowl, combine the milk and French Vanilla pudding mix.
- Use a handheld electric mixer to blend well until the mixture thickens.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk.
- Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Topping
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
- Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until fully blended.
Step 6: Assemble the Pudding
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cookies and bananas in the dish.
- Sprinkle the chopped strawberries evenly over the top.
Step 7: Finish and Chill
- Cover the pudding with the remaining Vanilla Wafers.
- Refrigerate for at least a few hours or until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or BBQs.
- Garnish with additional fresh strawberries or banana slices before serving for extra freshness.
Prep Time and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 hours minimum
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the whipped topping and bananas may not freeze well.
This Strawberry Banana Pudding is the ultimate dessert for a sweet, indulgent treat that will delight everyone with its creamy texture, fruity freshness, and satisfying crunch!