If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s a total crowd-pleaser, look no further than Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding. This glorious no-bake confection takes the best bits of creamy cheesecake, fruity banana pudding, and layers them with juicy strawberries and crunchy cookies. Each bite feels like a little party—cool, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, a birthday bash, or just want something special on a weeknight, this irresistible pudding has your name written all over it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding calls for ingredients you probably already love, and together they create pure dessert magic! Every component plays a role—softness, tang, sweetness, and crunch all get their moment in the spotlight.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Sets the deliciously tangy, silky base for your pudding, so let it come to room temperature for extra creaminess.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Sweetens and enriches, giving the cheesecake layer its luscious mouthfeel.
- Instant banana pudding mix (3.4 oz box): Infuses the dessert with classic banana pudding flavor and helps thicken up the filling.
- Cold milk (1½ cups): Helps activate the pudding mix and keeps the dessert ultra creamy; whole or 2% milk both work perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and adds irresistible warmth to the mix.
- Whipped topping (2 cups, such as Cool Whip): Folds in light, fluffy texture—plus it makes the whole thing a breeze to assemble.
- Ripe bananas (3, sliced): Provide sweet bursts of fruitiness and that signature banana pudding touch; choose bananas with a few brown speckles for maximum flavor.
- Fresh strawberries (2 cups, sliced): Lend juicy sweetness and bright color—go for ripe, vibrant berries for the prettiest presentation.
- Vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies (1 box): Offer crispness and buttery richness—you can swap out for your favorite cookie if you’re feeling adventurous!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese
Begin by adding the softened cream cheese to a large mixing bowl and beating it until smooth and fluffy. The key here is to get rid of any lumps and create a dreamy, creamy texture that sets the foundation for your Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding. A hand mixer or stand mixer makes this step a breeze.
Step 2: Combine with Condensed Milk
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until the two are fully blended. This not only boosts the sweetness but makes the cheesecake layer rich and luscious—truly reminiscent of classic cheesecake flavor, just silkier and easier.
Step 3: Prepare Banana Pudding
In another bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it thickens up. This step brings creamy banana flavor and structure, so make sure the pudding is nice and thick before moving on.
Step 4: Bring on the Flavors
Add the prepared pudding and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until everything blends into one smooth, irresistible filling. The vanilla will round out the banana notes perfectly, making the flavor rich and harmonious.
Step 5: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the whipped topping, taking care not to deflate its airy texture. This is what gives your Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding that signature pillowy softness and helps the layers meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Layer the Dessert
Grab your favorite 9×13-inch dish or a trifle bowl. Start by layering vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies on the bottom, followed by a layer of sliced bananas, then strawberries, and a lavish spread of the cheesecake pudding mixture. Continue layering until everything is used up, ending with the creamy pudding on top. The layers not only look gorgeous but ensure every serving is packed with flavor and texture!
Step 7: Chill and Enjoy
Cover the dish and pop your pudding into the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better!). This lets the cookies soften, the flavors meld, and the whole dessert set to sliceable, scoopable perfection. When you’re ready, decorate with a crown of fresh berries, extra banana slices, and a sprinkle of crushed cookies for that final touch.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
Garnishes
No bowl of Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is complete without a dazzling finish! Scatter more fresh strawberry and banana slices across the top, and don’t be shy about adding a crumbled cookie sprinkle for extra crunch. A few mint leaves can also add a touch of brightness and color.
Side Dishes
This dessert is a star all on its own, but if you’re building a spread, try pairing it with light, fresh sides like a green salad or a citrusy fruit salad. If you want to go all out, serve with tiny glasses of iced coffee or berry lemonade—something cool, crisp, and refreshing to balance all the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or potlucks, you can layer the Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding in individual mason jars or small cups for a grab-and-go treat. Mini trifle bowls, parfait glasses, or even wine glasses make for adorable and Instagram-worthy presentation. A big glass trifle dish always wows a crowd, showing off those beautiful layers from every angle!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. The cookies will continue to soften, and the fruit will meld even more into the creamy layers, so don’t be surprised if you find it tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
Freezing is possible, but the texture of bananas and whipped topping can change after thawing, becoming watery or mushy. If you need to freeze, do it in an airtight container for up to one month, but expect a softer, slightly icier pudding once thawed.
Reheating
This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. There’s no need to reheat—just scoop, serve, and enjoy! If it’s been frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Just whip 1 cup of heavy cream with a couple tablespoons of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. It will have a slightly lighter, fresher taste but will work beautifully in this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding.
What’s the best way to prevent the bananas from browning?
If you want your bananas to stay pretty, you can lightly toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering. This helps keep them fresh-looking, especially if you’re making the pudding a day in advance.
Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap in gluten-free vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies and check that your pudding mix is gluten-free. Everything else on the ingredients list is safe for gluten-free diets.
How far in advance can I make this dessert?
You can assemble Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding up to 24 hours ahead. In fact, making it ahead lets all the flavors develop and the dessert to set, making it even more delicious for your event.
What are some fun mix-ins or variations?
Try adding white chocolate chips, a layer of crushed pecans, or a drizzle of caramel sauce before chilling for a fun twist. You might also test different fruit blends, like raspberries or blueberries, to customize your own signature pudding!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding enough—it’s pure comfort and celebration in a bowl! This is the kind of dessert that brings smiles and second helpings every time. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste—you’re going to want to make it again and again.
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of banana pudding and cheesecake with a fruity twist in this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding. Layers of creamy goodness, fresh fruits, and cookies make this dessert a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
Banana Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Additional Layers:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies
Instructions
- Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until well combined.
- Banana Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk the banana pudding mix with cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Add the pudding to the cream cheese mixture along with the vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping.
- Assembly: In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers, followed by banana slices, strawberry slices, and a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top. Garnish with extra sliced strawberries, bananas, and crushed cookies if desired.
- Chilling: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use firm, ripe bananas and fresh strawberries for best results.
- This dessert can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the fridge.
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