Best Strawberry Banana Pudding

Strawberry Banana Pudding is a dreamy layered dessert that brings together juicy strawberries, ripe bananas, a smooth and creamy pudding, and a mix of cookies and vanilla wafers for the perfect bite. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, the holidays, or just treating yourself, this crowd-pleaser adds a touch of sweetness to any occasion.

Strawberries and bananas are a match made in dessert heaven—and this recipe proves it! A fun twist on the classic banana pudding, this version adds layers of fresh strawberries and a glossy strawberry glaze for extra flavor and visual appeal.

It’s the kind of treat that’s just as perfect for special events and holiday gatherings as it is for a cozy night at home. With its creamy pudding, sweet fruit, and cookie crunch, this layered dessert is easy to make and impossible to resist. It’s rich and satisfying without feeling too heavy, so don’t be surprised if you go back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Banana Pudding

We love this Strawberry Banana Pudding because it’s the perfect mix of creamy, fruity, and nostalgic. Each bite brings together smooth pudding, fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, and layers of comforting sweetness that remind us of classic family gatherings—but with a fresh twist.

Balanced flavors: The mix of ripe bananas, sweet strawberries, and vanilla pudding is both refreshing and indulgent.
No-bake convenience: It’s easy to prepare ahead without turning on the oven—perfect for warm days or busy schedules.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for parties, potlucks, or weeknight treats, this dessert disappears fast and earns compliments every time.

What You Need

Pudding Mix: A blend of vanilla and banana cream pudding mixes delivers a perfectly balanced, nostalgic sweetness.
Milk: Very cold milk ensures a smooth, creamy pudding base.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a subtle tang and rich texture.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor depth of the pudding layers.
Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon brings warmth and gentle spice.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides a silky sweetness that unifies the layers.
Cool Whip: Adds creaminess inside the pudding and creates a fluffy topping.
Chessman Butter Cookies: Buttery cookies add elegant texture to each layer.
Nilla Wafers: Classic vanilla wafers bring nostalgic crunch to every bite.
Fresh Fruit: Thinly sliced bananas and strawberries add freshness and balance.
Strawberry Glaze: Optional but highly recommended for a bright, tangy finish that elevates the dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Base:
In a large bowl, combine the vanilla and banana cream pudding mixes with very cold milk. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture for 2–3 minutes until it thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
Add Cream Cheese and Flavorings:
Soften the cream cheese to room temperature, then gradually beat it into the pudding base until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Sweeten and Lighten the Mixture:
Fold in the sweetened condensed milk for added richness and sweetness. Then gently fold in half of the Cool Whip to create a light, creamy texture.
Prepare the Cookies and Fruit:
Thinly slice fresh bananas and strawberries. Break the Chessman butter cookies into smaller pieces if desired for layering.
Layer the Dessert:
In a large clear trifle dish or serving bowl, start with a layer of pudding mixture. Add a layer of Nilla wafers, then a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries. Drizzle some strawberry glaze over the fruit for extra flavor.
Repeat Layers:
Continue layering pudding, cookies, fruit, and glaze until you run out of ingredients or reach the top of your dish. Reserve some Cool Whip for the final topping.
Top and Chill:
Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the top layer. Optionally, decorate with extra strawberries or cookie crumbs. Cover the pudding and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled and set, scoop into bowls and savor this rich yet refreshing strawberry banana treat!

Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Banana Pudding

Use very cold milk: It helps the pudding firm up and keeps it silky smooth.
Soften the cream cheese: Let it come to room temperature to avoid lumps and ensure smooth blending.
Add cookies just before serving: This keeps them crunchy and prevents sogginess.
Slice fruit thinly: Thin layers of banana and strawberry give you an even, flavorful bite every time.
Don’t skip the glaze: Strawberry glaze adds a tangy sweetness that balances the creamy layers.
Chill for at least 4 hours: This helps the dessert set and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve in a clear trifle bowl: The colorful layers make a stunning presentation for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Banana Pudding ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes best after chilling for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and layers set.

How long does it keep in the fridge?
When covered, it stays fresh for up to 3 days.

When should I add the cookies?
Add cookies just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mixes?
Yes, homemade vanilla and banana pudding work great as substitutes.

What can I use instead of Chessman butter cookies or Nilla wafers?
Graham crackers, shortbread, or other vanilla-flavored cookies are good alternatives.

Can I freeze Strawberry Banana Pudding?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture and cause sogginess.

Is the strawberry glaze necessary?
It’s optional but adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the dessert.

How thin should I slice the fruit?
Slice bananas and strawberries about 1/8 inch thick for even distribution and freshness.