Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is no-bake, make-ahead friendly, and incredibly easy to assemble. It combines classic flavors that everyone loves and creates a dessert that feels rich yet light, making it perfect for any occasion.
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Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream: A Creamy, Fruity Dessert That Lives Up to Its Name
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and refreshing strawberry banana pudding dream layered with vanilla pudding, fresh fruit, and cookies for an irresistible no-bake dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers
- Fresh strawberries or banana slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together cold milk and instant pudding mix until thickened.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the prepared pudding until smooth and fluffy.
- In a serving dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom.
- Add a layer of banana slices followed by strawberry slices.
- Spread a layer of pudding mixture over the fruit.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Garnish with fresh fruit before serving if desired.
Notes
- Best served chilled.
- Assemble close to serving time to prevent bananas from browning.
- You can use banana pudding mix for extra banana flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Vanilla pudding mix
Creates the smooth, creamy base of the dessert.
Milk
Activates the pudding and gives it a silky texture.
Sweetened condensed milk
Adds richness and gentle sweetness.
Whipped topping or whipped cream
Lightens the pudding and creates a fluffy texture.
Bananas
Add natural sweetness and soft, creamy bites.
Strawberries
Bring freshness, color, and a slight tart balance.
Vanilla wafers or butter cookies
Create soft, cake-like layers as they absorb the pudding.
Vanilla extract
Enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.
Directions
Begin by whisking together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Slice the bananas and strawberries evenly. In a serving dish or trifle bowl, begin layering the dessert by spreading a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom. Top with a layer of pudding mixture, followed by bananas and strawberries.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with pudding on top. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften. Serve chilled.
Essential Equipment
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
Serves 8–10
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total time: about 4 hours 20 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating. The texture improves as it chills, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate Strawberry Banana Dream
Add a layer of chocolate pudding for richness.
Cream Cheese Pudding Version
Blend softened cream cheese into the pudding for extra body.
Mini Dessert Cups
Assemble in individual cups for parties.
No-Banana Version
Use extra strawberries or add blueberries instead.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dream
Add crushed graham crackers to the layers.
Low-Sugar Option
Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
Coconut Twist
Add shredded coconut for tropical flavor.
Crunchy Topping Version
Top with crushed cookies just before serving.
Frozen Dessert Style
Freeze briefly for an icebox-style treat.
Kid-Friendly Cups
Let kids build their own layers.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert the night before?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Will the bananas turn brown?
Chilling slows browning, and pudding coverage helps protect them.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, homemade vanilla pudding works very well.
Are frozen strawberries okay?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture.
Can I use different cookies?
Yes, shortbread or graham crackers work well.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It is balanced and not overly sweet.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free pudding, milk, and whipped topping.
Does this hold its shape when served?
Yes, once chilled, it scoops beautifully.
Can I add gelatin for firmness?
Not necessary, but it can be used if preferred.
Is this good for parties?
Yes, it is a guaranteed crowd favorite.
Conclusion
Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is a creamy, refreshing dessert that brings together classic flavors in the easiest, most satisfying way. With its soft layers, fresh fruit, and fluffy pudding, it feels indulgent without being heavy. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simple family treats, this no-bake dessert is as effortless as it is unforgettable.
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