Name: Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Vanilla wafers; 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix; 2 cups cold milk (for pudding); 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed; 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced; 1–2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; Extra fruit and crushed vanilla wafers for garnish

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Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is a luscious, no-bake dessert that combines creamy vanilla pudding, layers of fresh strawberries and bananas, and a soft, cookie-like base of vanilla wafers. I love how it tastes like sunshine in a dish — sweet, fruity, and perfectly creamy. It’s the kind of dessert I bring to gatherings when I want something that looks beautiful, tastes amazing, and requires minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, nostalgic, and incredibly refreshing. It has the creamy texture of banana pudding with an added burst of juicy strawberries that makes it extra special. There’s no baking involved, which makes it perfect for warm weather or when I need a last-minute dessert. I also love how it gets better as it chills — the cookies soften into a cake-like texture, and the flavors meld beautifully. Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

vanilla wafers
instant vanilla pudding mix
milk (for the pudding)
sweetened condensed milk
whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
fresh strawberries, sliced
ripe bananas, sliced
vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)

Directions

I start by preparing the vanilla pudding according to the package directions, whisking it with milk until smooth and thickened.
I fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, then gently mix in the whipped topping until creamy and light.
In a large dish or trifle bowl, I layer vanilla wafers at the bottom.
Next, I add a layer of banana slices, followed by a layer of strawberries.
I spoon a layer of the creamy pudding mixture over the fruit, spreading it evenly.
I repeat the layers until I’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
I refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
Before serving, I top it with extra sliced fruit and crushed wafers for garnish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8–10 servings. It takes me about 20 minutes to assemble and at least 3 hours to chill before serving.

Variations

Sometimes I like to use cheesecake-flavored pudding for a richer taste or add a drizzle of strawberry sauce between the layers. For a lighter version, I use sugar-free pudding and reduced-fat whipped topping. When I want it to look fancy, I build it in individual dessert cups or mason jars.

Storage/Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, I store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 3 days. I don’t freeze it because the fruit can become watery once thawed. I always assemble it a few hours ahead to let the flavors blend beautifully. Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

FAQs

Can I make this pudding dessert a day ahead?

Yes, I actually prefer making it the night before because it allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld perfectly.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Absolutely. I sometimes make my own whipped cream with heavy cream and a bit of sugar — it adds a fresh, airy texture.

What other fruits can I use?

I love mixing in blueberries, raspberries, or even pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.

Can I use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla?

Yes, banana pudding mix works great if I want a stronger banana flavor.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

I toss the banana slices lightly in lemon juice before layering them — it helps keep them fresh and bright.

Conclusion

Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is one of those easy, crowd-pleasing desserts I turn to again and again. It’s creamy, fruity, and irresistibly sweet — like a combination of banana pudding and strawberry shortcake in one bowl. I love how simple it is to make, yet it always feels like something special. It’s the perfect dessert to bring to potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, and it never lasts long once served.