Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Recipe

Introduction

This Strawberry Banana Pudding is a delightful and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Layers of vanilla wafers, fresh fruit, and rich pudding come together to create a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
• 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
• 2 cups milk
• 1 container strawberries, sliced
• 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding mix
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the French Vanilla pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and mix well.
3. Step 3: Fold the prepared pudding into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light and creamy filling.
5. Step 5: In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and strawberries.
6. Step 6: Spread a layer of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
7. Step 7: Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding mixture on top.
8. Step 8: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
9. Step 9: Before serving, garnish with extra sliced strawberries or crushed vanilla wafers if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a tropical twist, swap bananas with mango slices or add pineapple chunks.
• Use homemade vanilla pudding for a fresher taste and control over sweetness.
• Allow the dessert to chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture for extra aroma.
• For a lighter version, substitute whipped topping with Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of honey.

Storage

Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve with time but the vanilla wafers may soften too much after a few days. Serve chilled. If the pudding seems too loose after storing, stir gently before serving to recombine ingredients.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the pudding at least 4 hours in advance—or ideally overnight—helps the flavors meld and the wafers soften perfectly.

Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture.

Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 146 reviews

This Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy, fruity dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, strawberries, and a rich vanilla pudding mixture. Perfect for gatherings or a delightful treat, it combines sweet, tangy, and smooth textures in a no-bake, easy-to-prepare dish.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Layer

• 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
• 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
• 1 container strawberries, washed and sliced

Pudding Mixture

• 2 cups milk
• 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding mix
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping

Instructions

1. Prepare Pudding Mix: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the French Vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened and smooth. Set it aside to chill slightly.
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Sweetened Condensed Milk: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and blend until fully combined and creamy.
3. Combine Cream Cheese Mixture with Pudding: Fold the chilled pudding mixture into the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk blend, stirring gently to incorporate evenly.
4. Add Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping to the pudding mixture, ensuring a smooth, fluffy texture without deflating it.
5. Layer the Pudding: In a large trifle bowl or individual serving dishes, layer vanilla wafers at the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas, then a layer of sliced strawberries.
6. Add Pudding Mixture: Spoon a generous amount of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers, spreading it evenly.
7. Repeat Layers: Continue layering wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding mixture until ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
8. Chill: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and wafers to soften.
9. Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional strawberries or vanilla wafers if desired.

Notes

• For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning.
• Can be prepared a day ahead to enhance flavor melding.
• Use fresh whipped topping rather than thawed frozen for best texture.
• Substitute almond milk or other plant-based milk for a dairy-free version, but texture may vary.
• Keep refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for freshness.

Keywords: Strawberry Banana Pudding, No-Bake Dessert, Vanilla Wafers, French Vanilla Pudding, Cream Cheese Dessert, Fruit Pudding