strawberry banana pudding dessert

There’s something magical about a dessert that brings back childhood memories and creates new ones for my family. My strawberry banana pudding dessert is one of those dishes. It’s the kind of dessert that fills your kitchen with laughter and sweet aromas, perfect for a family gathering or just a cozy night in. As a friendly home cook, I believe that food should be approachable and enjoyable, and this dessert is a testament to that philosophy. Let me share my favorite recipe with you, like a neighbor passing along a secret that’s too good to keep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a little bit of something special in every bite of this dessert, which makes it a beloved treat at any table. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a staple in your home.

Easy to Prepare: This strawberry banana pudding dessert is simple enough for even novice cooks. With everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find it easy to whip up. You won’t need fancy equipment or advanced skills—just a bit of enthusiasm and a love for delicious food. The simplicity of the steps means that even a busy weekday evening can become an opportunity to indulge your sweet tooth without stress.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination of creamy pudding and fresh strawberries makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a family barbecue or a holiday party, it’s sure to be a favorite. Children will love the sweet flavors and colorful layers, while adults will appreciate the nostalgic taste. You might even find that family members who are typically dessert-averse are tempted by this delightful concoction.
Comfort Food Delight: The layers of pudding, cookies, and fruit create a comforting, homely feel that reminds you of family dinners. Each forkful is a reminder of the love and warmth that comes from sharing food with those you care about. This dish is perfect for those moments when you crave something cozy and satisfying, a true hug in a bowl.
No Baking Required: Perfect for hot days or when you want a fuss-free dessert, this no-bake recipe saves time and effort. You can enjoy the process without heating up the kitchen, making it ideal for summertime gatherings or last-minute dessert needs. Those sweltering afternoons no longer mean sacrificing dessert—this cool treat is here to save the day.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the day before your event, letting the flavors meld together beautifully overnight. This means less stress on the day of your gathering, giving you more time to focus on enjoying the moment with your loved ones. The ability to make this in advance makes it a go-to for holidays and parties, where timing is everything.

The Recipe

Let’s delve into the heart of this delightful dessert. Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

For the pudding mix:
– 2 boxes (3.4 ounces each) Instant pudding mix (Vanilla or French Vanilla)
– 2 cups cold milk (whole, oat, or almond)
– 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
– 8 ounces softened cream cheese (room temperature)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces cool whip
– 2 boxes vanilla wafers
– 2 ripe bananas (optional)
– 1 box chessman cookies (optional)

For the macerated strawberries:
– 16 ounces strawberries
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Mixture: Slice the strawberries and mix them with sugar. Allow them to sit for at least an hour to create a sweet syrup. This process, known as maceration, enhances the natural flavors of the berries and gives them a luscious texture. The sugar draws out the juices, transforming the strawberries into a glossy, syrupy delight that permeates the dessert with its essence.
Make the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the pudding thicken, ensuring it has the perfect consistency for layering. If you prefer a thicker pudding layer, you can reduce the milk slightly or refrigerate for a longer time.
Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Slowly incorporate two tablespoons of the strawberry syrup, folding in the cool whip until smooth. Add three more tablespoons of syrup and two tablespoons of macerated strawberries. These additions infuse the cream cheese mixture with a subtle strawberry flavor, complementing the pudding layers. The tanginess of the cream cheese balances the sweetness, creating a harmonious blend.
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding for a uniform consistency. This step ensures that each spoonful of the dessert is a perfect blend of creamy textures and flavors. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture of the mixture, which is key to its lightness.
Layer the Dessert: Start by spreading a layer of pudding mixture over cookies, followed by crushed vanilla wafers, macerated strawberries, and sliced bananas. Repeat until you have three layers, ending with pudding on top. The key here is to layer evenly and gently to preserve the integrity of each component. The layering process is an opportunity to get creative with presentation, as the layered effect is visually appealing.
Refrigerate: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to set the flavors. The overnight rest allows the cookies to soften slightly as they absorb moisture, creating a cake-like texture. Patience is rewarded as the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dessert.
Decorate and Serve: Before serving, top with cookies, strawberries, and a drizzle of strawberry syrup. This final touch not only looks beautiful but adds an extra burst of flavor to the presentation. Consider adding a sprig of mint for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Nutrition: Calories: 343kcal per serving

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To create this delightful dessert, gather the following tools:

Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need these for mixing the pudding and cream cheese mixtures separately. Having a few on hand will save you time and effort. Stainless steel bowls are ideal as they help maintain the cold temperature needed for certain ingredients.
Whisk: A whisk is perfect for ensuring your pudding mix is lump-free and smooth. Opt for a silicone whisk to avoid scratching your bowls.
Electric Mixer: This tool makes quick work of blending the cream cheese mixture to a fluffy consistency. A hand mixer works well, but a stand mixer allows for easier multitasking.
Spatula: Use a spatula for folding ingredients together gently, preventing overmixing, which can deflate the mixture. Silicone spatulas are flexible and make scraping the bowl easier.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for slicing strawberries and bananas. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and preserves the fruit’s integrity.
9×13 Baking Dish: This dish is ideal for layering your dessert and presenting it beautifully. Glass dishes are perfect for showcasing the layers, while ceramic retains cold temperatures well.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

A delicious plate of strawberry banana pudding dessert

Understanding the purpose of each ingredient can enhance your appreciation of the recipe and might even inspire some creative adaptations.

Instant Pudding Mix: Provides a quick, creamy base that saves time. It’s a reliable option for achieving that classic pudding texture without the hassle of cooking custard from scratch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different pudding flavors for a unique twist.
Cold Milk: Essential for activating the pudding mix and creating a smooth texture. Whole milk adds richness, while alternatives like oat or almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option. Each type of milk brings its own character to the dish, from creamy to nutty.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness and sweetness, enhancing the dessert’s flavor. It gives the pudding a luxurious mouthfeel and depth. Consider using a low-sugar version if you’re looking to reduce the sweetness slightly.
Cream Cheese: Offers a tangy contrast, balancing the sweetness and adding creaminess. It also stabilizes the mixture, contributing to the dessert’s structure. For a lighter option, try using whipped cream cheese.
Vanilla Extract: Infuses the dessert with a warm, comforting aroma. It’s a simple addition that elevates the overall flavor profile. Pure vanilla extract is best, but vanilla bean paste can add an extra level of sophistication.
Cool Whip: Lightens the mixture, making it fluffy and easy to layer. It’s a convenient option for achieving a whipped topping texture without extra effort. If you prefer homemade, try whipping your own cream with a touch of sugar and vanilla.
Vanilla Wafers and Chessman Cookies: Add texture and a buttery flavor, complementing the creamy pudding. They serve as the structural foundation of the dessert. Experiment with different cookies to add a unique crunch—shortbread or graham crackers make excellent substitutes.
Strawberries and Bananas: Provide fresh, fruity notes, making the dessert vibrant and colorful. Their natural sweetness and juiciness are the perfect counterpoint to the creamy layers. Seasonal fruits can also be used for a different flavor profile; raspberries or blueberries are delightful alternatives.

What to Serve With This Dish

This strawberry banana pudding dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or tea. The warm notes of a freshly brewed drink beautifully contrast with the chilled, creamy dessert. It’s also delightful alongside a light dinner, such as my Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken or Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, both of which bring out the fruity flavors and creamy texture of the dessert. These meals provide a balanced menu that satisfies without overwhelming, making your dessert the star of the evening. Consider serving with a sparkling water infused with lemon or mint to cleanse the palate between bites.

Storage & Leftover Tips

This dessert is best stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three days, though it’s unlikely to last that long once your family gets a taste! If you find yourself with leftovers, consider adding a fresh layer of strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream to refresh the layers. These small touches can rejuvenate the dessert, making it feel new again. If you want a change, try serving leftovers as a parfait, layered in individual glasses for a quick and elegant treat.

Remember, the key to making this dessert a family favorite is to enjoy the process. Cooking should be about bringing people together, creating memories, and, most importantly, having fun. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family gatherings, just as it is in mine. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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