Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Author: Emily

Published: 31 May 2025

Updated: 6 January 2026

why make this recipe

This pudding feels like a hug in a bowl. I make it when I want something bright and easy. It layers sweet fruit, vanilla wafers, and creamy pudding. It comes together fast. If you love banana sweets, try my banana bread cookies for a similar cozy treat.

how to make Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Ingredients:
2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
6 to 8 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1 container strawberries
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

Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Directions:
Beat the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together until smooth.
Stir the French Vanilla pudding into the cream cheese mixture with the milk. Mix until well combined.
Layer vanilla wafers in a large serving dish. Add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding. Finish with pudding on top.
Spread the whipped topping over the final layer.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
If you want a different make-ahead dessert, I also enjoy overnight chia pudding with tropical fruits for a lighter option.

how to serve Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Scoop it into bowls. Add extra sliced strawberries on top. Serve chilled. For a brunch crowd, I like to offer warm toast or a pastry alongside. It pairs nicely with a sweet bread like a sourdough strawberry-rhubarb braid to keep the strawberry theme going.

how to store Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas will brown a bit over time. For best texture, eat it within 24–48 hours. Do not freeze the assembled pudding. The whipped topping and fruit change texture when frozen.

tips to make Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Use ripe but firm bananas. They hold their shape better. Slice the fruit just before layering to avoid browning. Press the vanilla wafers gently into the pudding so they soften evenly. If you want a thinner pudding layer, add a splash more milk to the pudding mix. For a breakfast-style twist, serve small scoops with oatmeal banana pancakes with maple syrup on the side.

variation (if any)

Swap the strawberries for raspberries or mixed berries. Use banana pudding mix for a stronger banana flavor. Add chopped nuts between layers for crunch. For a fun party platter, turn this into mini parfaits in glass jars. You can also serve spoonfuls with strawberry cheesecake nachos for a playful dessert board.

FAQs

Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and chill at least 4 hours. It gets creamier as it rests.

Q: Can I substitute light cream cheese or a dairy-free version?
A: Yes. Light cream cheese works. Use a dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free whipped topping to make it vegan-friendly. Texture may vary slightly.

Q: How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?
A: Slice them right before you layer. Toss them with a little lemon juice if you need to prep early.

Q: Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?
A: Absolutely. Whip heavy cream with a tablespoon of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread it on top just before serving.

Q: Is it safe to leave this out at a party?
A: No. Keep it chilled. Discard any portions left at room temperature for more than two hours.

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