Name: Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers; 6 to 8 bananas, sliced; 2 cups milk; 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding; 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese; 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping; 1 container strawberries

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Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate crowd-pleaser: Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream! This luscious, no-bake dessert brings together layers of tender vanilla wafers, juicy strawberries, creamy bananas, and a silky pudding blend that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Every spoonful is a delightful mix of textures and flavors—refreshing fruit, fluffy whipped topping, and that smooth, dreamy pudding. Whether you’re planning a family celebration or simply want to treat yourself to something special, Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how approachable the ingredient list is—each element is easy to find, yet brings an essential twist to the Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream. From the crunch of vanilla wafers to the richness of cream cheese, these goodies come together to create pure dessert magic!

Vanilla Wafers: These classic cookies offer a deliciously sturdy base and add gentle sweetness with every bite.
Bananas: Their natural creaminess and mellow flavor are the perfect match for strawberries and pudding.
Milk: This liquid gold helps whip your pudding into that irresistible, silky texture.
Strawberries: Vivid, tangy, and refreshing, strawberries add color and invigorate every layer.
French Vanilla Pudding Mix: The secret to that mouthwatering, custard-like layer that keeps the dessert wonderfully soft and flavorful.
Cream Cheese: A little tang and extra creaminess make the pudding base lush and delectable.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Brings a deep, velvety sweetness that balances out the fruit perfectly.
Whipped Topping: Fluffy, cloud-like finishing touch that crowns every dreamy layer.

How to Make Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Step 1: Whip Up the Creamy Base

Kick things off by mixing cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together in a bowl until you’ve got a silky-smooth mixture with no lumps in sight. This creamy duo is the heart of Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream, setting the stage for every other flavor to shine.

Step 2: Mix in the Pudding

Add the French Vanilla pudding mix and milk into the bowl with your cream cheese base. Stir well to blend everything until the texture is thick, glossy, and completely uniform—think of it as building the ooey-gooey engine of this whole dessert!

Step 3: Layer Vanilla Wafers, Bananas, and Strawberries

Grab your favorite large serving dish and start with a generous layer of vanilla wafers. Next comes a gorgeous layer of sliced bananas and a vibrant moment with fresh strawberries. These layers work together, so each bite is loaded with fruit and crunch.

Step 4: Pour on the Pudding Layer

Now, cascade half of that creamy pudding mixture right over your fruit and wafers. Use a spatula to ensure it nestles into every nook and cranny—this is where the Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream starts to come together!

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Time for round two! Add another batch of wafers, more bananas, and strawberries, then finish with the rest of your luscious pudding blend. Doubling up on layers means flavor in every single scoop.

Step 6: Top with Whipped Topping and Chill

Finish strong by spreading the whipped topping smoothly across the final layer. This pillowy crown adds extra luxury to your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream. Pop the dish in the fridge for at least four hours so everything can meld together.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, scatter a few extra strawberry slices or banana coins across the top. A sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers or a handful of fresh mint brings a pop of color and finishes your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream with bakery-worthy flair.

Side Dishes

This dessert plays beautifully with simple accompaniments—think buttery shortbread cookies or a little fresh fruit salad on the side. A glass of iced tea or a silky cappuccino will complement the sweet and creamy flavors, turning dessert into pure celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, dish individual servings of Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream into clear glass jars or dessert bowls. The colorful layers will absolutely shine! You can also make parfaits for parties or even set up a build-your-own pudding bar with extra toppings for fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover your leftover Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid, and refrigerate for up to three days. The wafers will continue to soften, making every spoonful increasingly dreamy as the flavors meld.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze this dessert, the texture of the bananas and whipped topping might change a bit. If you’d like to try, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

No need to reheat Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream—it’s best enjoyed chilled! If the pudding has been in the fridge for a while and you’d like it a touch softer, simply let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of boxed?

Absolutely! Homemade vanilla pudding works beautifully and brings a personal touch to your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream. Just be sure to cool it fully before adding it to the layered dessert.

What’s the best way to keep bananas from browning?

Toss your banana slices with a little lemon juice before layering to help them stay fresh and bright. The creamy pudding also helps protect them from the air.

Can I make Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream the night before?

Yes, making it a day ahead is actually ideal! The extra time in the fridge lets the flavors mingle and the wafers soften to perfect, cake-like spoonfuls.

Are there any nut-free or gluten-free options?

You can certainly swap standard vanilla wafers for a gluten-free version. Double-check your ingredients for allergens, and you’ll still end up with a fabulous Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream.

Can I use a different fruit if I’m out of strawberries?

Of course! Blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches can step in for strawberries. Just stick with ripe, flavorful fruit and your dessert will be just as amazing.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—an irresistible, show-stopping, and unbelievably easy recipe for Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream! If you’re ready for a dessert that always delights, give this one a go and watch every bite disappear. Happy layering!

Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 6 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful combination of fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and creamy pudding with this luscious Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pudding:

2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
6 to 8 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping

For Layering:

1 container strawberries

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Blend in the Pudding: Add the French Vanilla pudding and milk to the mixture and stir until well combined.
Layer the Ingredients: In a large serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
Add the Pudding: Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
Repeat the Layers: Continue layering with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the pudding mixture on top.
Top and Chill: Spread the whipped topping over the final layer and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Mixing, Layering
Cuisine: American