Description

If you’re craving a no-bake dessert that’s light, fruity, and irresistibly creamy, this Strawberry Banana Pudding is the perfect treat. It combines layers of fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped cream with soft vanilla wafers for a sweet and nostalgic dessert everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding Layer:

1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 ½ cups whipped topping or homemade whipped cream

For the Fruit & Layers:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)

For Topping & Garnish:

½ cup whipped cream
Crushed vanilla wafers or wafer crumbs
Extra strawberry slices and banana rounds (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pudding Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened (about 2 minutes).
Add the vanilla extract and sweetened condensed milk, mixing until fully combined.
Gently fold in the whipped topping using a rubber spatula until smooth and creamy.
Place the pudding mixture in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Slice the Fruit

Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into thin rounds.
Peel and slice the bananas.
Set the fruit aside, ready for layering.

Step 3: Begin the Layering Process

In your trifle bowl or baking dish, create a base layer with vanilla wafers.
Spoon about one-third of the pudding mixture over the cookies and spread evenly.
Add a layer of banana slices followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
Repeat the layers: cookies, pudding, bananas, strawberries—ending with a layer of pudding on top.
Smooth the top layer gently with a spatula.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results—this allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften into a cake-like texture.

Step 5: Add Final Touches Before Serving

Just before serving, spread whipped cream over the top layer.
Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top for texture.
Garnish with additional strawberry slices and banana rounds for a fresh look.

Notes

Use Ripe but Firm Bananas – They’ll add sweetness without getting mushy too quickly.
Thinly Slice Strawberries – Helps them layer better and distribute evenly throughout.
Let It Chill – Don’t skip the refrigeration time; it transforms the texture and flavor.
Layer Thoughtfully – For a beautiful trifle, layer in a clear glass bowl so the fruits and cream create visual appeal.
Avoid Browning – Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice to keep them from turning brown if making ahead.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American