Description
This strawberry banana pudding is a rich, creamy, and fruity dessert made with layers of fresh bananas, strawberries, vanilla wafers, and smooth pudding. Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat, this no-bake recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pudding Base:
- 1 box (3.4 oz) vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
For the Layers:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 box (about 11 oz) vanilla wafers
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent bananas from browning)
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- Additional strawberry and banana slices
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pudding:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth.
- Stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
-
Whip the Cream (Optional):
- If using, beat heavy whipping cream with a hand mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture for an extra creamy texture.
-
Prepare the Bananas:
- Slice the bananas and toss them with lemon juice to slow browning.
-
Layer the Pudding:
- In a serving dish, spread a thin layer of pudding on the bottom.
- Add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by banana and strawberry slices.
- Spoon more pudding over the fruit.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to blend.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream, crushed wafers, and extra fruit.
Notes
- What makes bananas not turn brown in pudding? Tossing them with lemon juice slows oxidation and keeps them fresh.
- Is strawberry and banana a good combination? Absolutely! Their flavors complement each other perfectly in desserts.
- What thickens banana pudding? Cornstarch, eggs, or instant pudding mix help create a thick, creamy consistency.
- Letting the pudding chill overnight allows the wafers to soften into a cake-like texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American