Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding Recipe

Get ready to fall head-over-heels for the dreamy, vibrant, and creamy layers of Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding! This crowd-pleasing twist brings together three classic desserts in one, and every bite bursts with juicy strawberries, luscious cheesecake-like filling, and the familiar comfort of banana pudding. Whether you’re making it for a backyard cookout or a cozy family night, this showstopper is as visually stunning as it is delicious. All you need are simple ingredients and a few quick steps, and you’ll have a no-bake dessert that vanishes in a flash!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here earns its place, each one blending to create the magic that is Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding. Expect nothing but total harmony between bright fruit, creamy pudding, and sweet, pillowy layers—these essentials are all you need.

• Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (3.4 oz box): The backbone of the creamy base, it thickens quickly and brings that classic pudding flavor.
• Cold Milk (1½ cups): Helps the pudding set to the perfect consistency in minutes—use whole milk for creaminess.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): This is your cheesecake moment—rich, tangy, and essential for that luscious texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz can): Adds sweetness and an ultra-luxurious, silky smoothness you’ll crave in each bite.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A dash of classic flavor ties everything together beautifully.
• Whipped Topping or Whipped Cream (2 cups): Lends airy lightness and makes those layers fluffy and dreamy.
• Ripe Bananas (3, sliced): For that iconic banana pudding flavor, choose bananas with a few brown spots for maximum sweetness.
• Fresh Strawberries (1½ cups, sliced): Add a burst of juicy, juicy brightness to every layer and a gorgeous pop of color.
• Vanilla Wafer Cookies (1 box): Softened by the pudding, these cookies give you the iconic “bite” and a hint of nostalgia.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Step 1: Mix the Pudding

Pour the instant vanilla pudding mix into a large bowl, then whisk in the cold milk until the mixture is nice and thick—usually just a couple of minutes of steady whisking does the trick. Set this aside to let it continue to thicken while you move on. It’s quick, simple, and the first creamy layer of your Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps. Add the sweetened condensed milk along with the vanilla extract, and beat until the mixture is super creamy and well combined. You’ll want it to look like a classic cheesecake batter—rich and inviting, with sweet aromas floating from your mixer.

Step 3: Combine Pudding and Cheesecake Fillings

Gently fold the prepared pudding into the cream cheese mixture, working slowly to keep things light and fluffy. Once that’s combined, delicately fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream. This is where all things luscious and dreamy happen—the filling will be cloudlike and irresistible.

Step 4: Layer the Pudding

Now the fun begins! Arrange a layer of vanilla wafer cookies on the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish or a big, beautiful trifle bowl. Spoon on one-third of the pudding and cheesecake mixture, spreading it all the way to the edges. Add a layer of sliced bananas and another of sliced strawberries. Repeat the cookies, pudding, and fruit layers two more times, finishing with the creamy pudding mix on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

For that final wow-factor, scatter extra fresh strawberry slices and some crushed vanilla wafers over the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible—this time allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld, turning your Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding into pure heaven.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Garnishes

Keep things classic and eye-catching by topping your pudding with extra strawberry slices, banana coins, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers. For a finishing touch, a few dollops of whipped cream and a light dusting of powdered sugar will make each serving look irresistible and ready for celebration.

Side Dishes

This glorious dessert shines best after a hearty meal! Serve alongside savory Southern classics like pulled pork sliders, fried chicken, or barbecue ribs. If you want a lighter option, a simple green salad or grilled vegetables will balance all the sweetness of your Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, individual parfait glasses or mini mason jars turn this luscious dessert into a grab-and-go treat, perfect for picnics or parties. If you’re feeling extra festive, drizzle each layer with a ribbon of strawberry jam or add a spoonful of macerated berries for a more dramatic effect. The bright colors and stunning layers make this pudding a centerpiece no matter how you serve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding left, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. It’ll stay fresh and creamy in the fridge for up to 3 days, though the bananas may start to soften—still delicious, but best enjoyed sooner rather than later!

Freezing

While the creamy pudding and cream cheese hold up well in the freezer, bananas tend to lose their texture after freezing and thawing. If you must freeze, do so before adding the fresh fruit, and add the bananas and strawberries just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before layering in your fruit.

Reheating

This dreamy dessert is meant to be served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. If it’s spent some time out of the fridge, simply return it to chill until cold and creamy again—no microwave or oven necessary!

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream tastes fantastic in Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks, then fold it in where you’d use store-bought whipped topping.

How can I avoid bananas turning brown?

For the prettiest layers, toss sliced bananas in a little lemon juice before layering. This simple step is the trick to keeping the bananas from browning, even after sitting overnight in the fridge.

Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding a day in advance?

Yes, and you should! Making it ahead gives the cookies time to soften and lets all those lovely flavors meld, creating the perfect scoopable dessert the next day.

What if I only have frozen strawberries?

You can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just thaw them completely, drain off any excess liquid, and pat dry before layering to keep your pudding from getting soggy.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Swap the regular vanilla wafer cookies for a gluten-free version and confirm your pudding mix is certified gluten-free, and you’ve got a gluten-free Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding that everyone can enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Now you’re armed with every tip, trick, and layer to make this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding shine at your next gathering. Don’t be surprised if it disappears in record time—this is a show-stopping dessert that instantly brightens any table and makes memories for years to come. Give it a whirl and share the love—this one’s too good not to make!

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