If you’re looking for a dessert that screams indulgence yet feels like a comforting hug, you’ve landed in the right place. This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is the ultimate no-bake dessert, blending creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and sweet bananas into a symphony of flavors. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just a sweet craving, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Ingredients
1. Cream cheese (8 oz)
A block of softened cream cheese is the foundation for that rich cheesecake flavor. To make it easier to blend, leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
This adds the perfect amount of sweetness and helps create that smooth pudding texture.
3. Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
This ingredient ensures a luscious, thick pudding that holds its shape. Tip: Mix it with cold milk for the best results.
4. Milk (2 cups)
To activate the pudding mix, you’ll need cold milk. Whole milk works best for a creamier finish.
5. Cool Whip (16 oz)
Light, airy, and sweet, Cool Whip is the secret to that cloud-like fluffiness in your dessert.
6. Strawberries (1 pound)
Wash and slice these fresh strawberries to layer in vibrant color and sweetness. A quick tip: Pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid sogginess.
7. Bananas (3–4)
Ripe bananas add a naturally sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy cheesecake filling. Slice them just before layering to prevent browning.
These cookies bring a lovely crunch and hint of vanilla to balance the creamy textures. Crush them coarsely for that rustic, homemade feel.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the cheesecake filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, instant pudding mix, and milk. Whisk until the mixture is thick and well-combined. Fold in half of the Cool Whip for extra fluffiness.
Step 2: Crush the vanilla wafers
Using a rolling pin or food processor, crush the vanilla wafers into coarse crumbs. Set aside to use as a delicious crunchy layer.
Step 3: Slice the fruit
Wash and slice the strawberries and bananas. For the best presentation, reserve a few slices of each to decorate the top layer.
Step 4: Layer the dessert
In a large serving dish or aluminum tray:
- Start with a layer of crushed vanilla wafers.
- Add a generous layer of the cheesecake filling.
- Top with a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
- Repeat the process until your dish is filled, finishing with a layer of fruit and cookie crumbles on top.
Step 5: Chill and serve
Refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the cheesecake filling and pudding layers.
- Hand mixer: Makes blending the cream cheese and pudding mix a breeze.
- Aluminum tray or glass dish: Ideal for layering and serving this dessert.
- Rolling pin: Perfect for crushing the vanilla wafers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is even better when prepared the night before, as the flavors have time to meld together. Just be sure to add the fruit toppings right before serving to keep them fresh.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
To keep bananas from browning, toss the slices lightly in lemon or pineapple juice before layering. This helps preserve their color and freshness.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, fresh whipped cream works beautifully! Just whip 2 cups of heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it in place of Cool Whip.
Can I substitute vanilla wafers?
Definitely! Graham crackers or shortbread cookies are great alternatives if you don’t have vanilla wafers on hand.
What size dish works best for this recipe?
A 9×13-inch dish is perfect for layering this dessert. If you’re making it for a smaller group, you can easily halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch dish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Conclusion
I hope you love this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding as much as I do! It’s the kind of dessert that turns any gathering into a celebration. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends on Facebook using the share buttons below or save it on Pinterest for later. Happy layering!