Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding. This delightful creation combines the classic, nostalgic flavors of traditional banana pudding with the luxurious taste of strawberry cheesecake. Layers of creamy pudding, fresh fruit, and crunchy cookies come together to create a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing sweet treat, this recipe brings together the best of two beloved desserts in one magnificent dish. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make despite its impressive appearance!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding combines the classic comfort of banana pudding with the irresistible flavors of strawberry cheesecake. The creamy layers, fresh fruit, and delightful crunch make this a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you simply want to treat yourself. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and always receives rave reviews from guests.

Ingredients

  • 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed and divided
  • 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
  • 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • Additional strawberries for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
  2. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
  3. Fold in half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
  4. Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the pudding mixture until well blended.
  5. In a large trifle dish or 9×13 baking dish, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
  6. Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
  7. Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit.
  8. Repeat layers with remaining wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding mixture.
  9. Top with remaining whipped topping and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.
  10. Garnish with additional strawberries if desired.
  11. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Serves: 12-16 people
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Lover’s Version: Substitute chocolate pudding mix and chocolate wafers for a decadent chocolate version.
  • Berry Medley: Add blueberries and raspberries along with the strawberries for a mixed berry variation.
  • Lemon Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the pudding mixture for a refreshing citrus flavor.
  • Mini Parfaits: Assemble in individual serving glasses for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers and ensure your pudding mix is gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating

  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This dessert is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
  • For best results, consume within 48 hours as the bananas may begin to brown after this time.
  • Not recommended for freezing as the texture will change significantly upon thawing.
 Individual serving of strawberry banana cheesecake pudding in a clear cup with visible layers of graham cracker crust, creamy filling, strawberry sauce, topped with fresh banana slices, strawberries, and caramel drizzle.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time? Yes, this dessert actually improves if made 12-24 hours in advance.
  2. Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping? Yes, you can substitute 3 cups of freshly whipped cream stabilized with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar.
  3. How do I prevent bananas from browning? Toss sliced bananas in a little lemon juice before adding to the pudding, or make sure they’re completely covered by the pudding mixture.
  4. Can I use other cookies instead of vanilla wafers? Certainly! Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even ladyfingers work well as substitutes.
  5. Is there a lower-calorie version? You can use reduced-fat cream cheese, sugar-free pudding mix, and light whipped topping to reduce calories.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is the perfect marriage of two beloved desserts. The creamy layers, fresh fruit, and delightful texture create a memorable treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or enjoying it as a weeknight indulgence, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

More Delicious Treats to Try

If you loved the flavors of Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding, here are some other irresistible desserts you won’t want to miss! Indulge in the creamy goodness of No-Bake Banana Split Cake, a layered delight bursting with fruit and whipped topping. For a unique twist on a classic favorite, try Mini Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries, the perfect bite-sized treat. If you’re craving something rich and fudgy, these Caramel Fudge Crunch Bars are a must-try. Fans of cheesecake will also love the decadent Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cupcakes, blending sweet and salty flavors perfectly. And for a nostalgic and creamy dessert, don’t miss out on the delightful Luscious No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies.

Individual serving of strawberry banana cheesecake pudding in a clear cup with visible layers of graham cracker crust, creamy filling, strawberry sauce, topped with fresh banana slices, strawberries, and caramel drizzle.

Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding combines the nostalgic comfort of banana pudding with the luxurious flavors of strawberry cheesecake. Creamy layers of pudding, fresh fruit, and crunchy cookies make this an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 people
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
  • Trifle Dish or 9×13 Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

Pudding Mixture

  • 2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix 3.4 oz each
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 12 oz frozen whipped topping thawed, divided

Layers

  • 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
  • 4-5 ripe bananas sliced
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced
  • 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • additional strawberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
  • In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
  • Fold in half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
  • Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the pudding mixture until well blended.
  • In a large trifle dish or 9×13 baking dish, arrange a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
  • Add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
  • Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit.
  • Repeat layers with remaining wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding mixture.
  • Top with remaining whipped topping and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.
  • Garnish with additional strawberries if desired.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

For best results, consume within 48 hours. Toss banana slices in lemon juice to prevent browning. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free vanilla wafers.
Keyword Banana Pudding, Cheesecake, No-Bake