If you’re looking for a creamy, fruity, and irresistible dessert, Strawberry Banana Pudding is the perfect treat! This no-bake recipe layers ripe bananas, juicy strawberries, and velvety homemade pudding to create a dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, summer party, or just a personal treat, this pudding is sure to impress.

Unlike traditional banana pudding, this version takes the classic flavors up a notch by incorporating fresh strawberries for a tangy contrast to the sweet bananas and rich custard. If you love fruit-based desserts, you’ll also enjoy exploring how strawberries and bananas complement each other in other sweet dishes. In fact, strawberries have been a staple in desserts for centuries—learn more about strawberries and their history of culinary uses.

This easy-to-make dessert is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can adjust the layers to suit your taste, experiment with different cookies, or even make it dairy-free. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas before they go to waste. If you’re interested in other ways to enjoy bananas, check out this guide on bananas, which details their nutritional benefits and versatile uses in cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Dessert

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Strawberry Banana Pudding! Whether you’re a fan of creamy textures, fruity flavors, or easy-to-make desserts, this recipe checks all the boxes. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

✔️ Easy & No-Bake

One of the biggest perks of this recipe is that it requires no baking. Unlike traditional puddings that might need oven time, this version comes together effortlessly on the stovetop. Simply cook the custard, assemble the layers, and let the fridge do the rest! It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want a refreshing treat without heating up the kitchen.

🍓 Perfect Flavor Combination

The mix of sweet bananas and tart strawberries creates a perfect balance of flavors. The vanilla pudding adds a luscious creaminess that ties everything together, while the cookies provide a delightful crunch. If you enjoy other fruit-based desserts, you might also love trying different variations of pudding—discover more about custard and its role in desserts.

🎉 Great for Any Occasion

This pudding is ideal for:

Summer BBQs and picnics – A cool, refreshing treat.
Potlucks and parties – Easy to transport and serve.
Family desserts – Kid-friendly and fun to make together.
Make-ahead desserts – Prepares well in advance, saving you time.

For more no-bake dessert ideas, you can explore Pinterest’s collection of easy no-bake sweets, where you’ll find plenty of inspiration for effortless treats.

✨ Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. You can:

Swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate biscuits.
Try different fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mango.
Add crushed nuts or shredded coconut for an extra crunch.
Make it dairy-free by using almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk.

With so many ways to customize it, Strawberry Banana Pudding can be tailored to suit any preference!

Ingredients Breakdown

To make the perfect Strawberry Banana Pudding, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the dessert’s creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and delightful layers. Let’s break them down:

For the Pudding:

This homemade pudding is rich, smooth, and much better than store-bought versions.

🥛 Whole Milk – The base of the pudding, giving it a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can substitute with almond or oat milk.
🍬 Granulated Sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the strawberries.
🌽 Cornstarch – The key thickening agent that helps the pudding achieve a silky consistency. Learn more about how cornstarch works in desserts here.
🧂 Salt – A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and prevents the pudding from tasting too sweet.
🥚 Egg Yolks – These add richness and help thicken the pudding. If you prefer an egg-free version, you can substitute with a mixture of cornstarch and plant-based milk.
🌿 Vanilla Extract – Brings a warm and comforting flavor that ties everything together.
🧈 Unsalted Butter – Gives the pudding a silky and smooth finish.

If you’re interested in exploring more about how custards are made, check out this detailed Wikipedia guide on custards.

For the Layers:

The layers are what make this pudding extra special by adding texture and flavor contrasts.

🍌 Ripe Bananas – Soft, naturally sweet, and perfect for layering. For best results, use bananas that are just ripe, as overly ripe ones can become too mushy.
🍓 Fresh Strawberries – These add a refreshing tartness that balances the richness of the pudding. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can use frozen ones—just thaw and drain them before layering.
🍪 Vanilla Wafers or Graham Crackers – These provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy layers. Vanilla wafers create a classic taste, while graham crackers add a hint of cinnamon. Looking for other ideas? Check out this Pinterest board on layered desserts for inspiration.
🍦 Whipped Cream – The final touch! Adds lightness and makes the pudding even more indulgent. You can use store-bought whipped cream or make your own with heavy cream and a little sugar.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this dessert truly irresistible. Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of putting it all together!

How to Make Strawberry Banana Pudding (Step-by-Step)

This easy no-bake dessert comes together in just a few steps. By following this method, you’ll get a smooth, creamy pudding layered with fresh fruit and crispy cookies—a combination that’s hard to resist!

Step 1: Making the Pudding

A rich, homemade pudding is the key to making this dessert taste amazing. While you could use store-bought pudding, making it from scratch gives it a deeper flavor and a velvety texture.

Combine Dry Ingredients – In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures the cornstarch is evenly distributed and prevents lumps.
Add Milk and Heat – Slowly pour in whole milk, whisking constantly. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble.
Temper the Egg Yolks – In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a few tablespoons of the warm milk mixture to the yolks, stirring continuously. This step prevents the eggs from scrambling when added to the hot pudding.
Incorporate the Yolks – Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pudding becomes thick and smooth.
Add Vanilla and Butter – Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until fully combined. This step adds a rich, creamy finish to the pudding.
Let It Cool – Transfer the pudding to a bowl and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool slightly before assembling the dessert.

Want to learn more about how pudding and custards work? Check out this in-depth guide on custard preparation.

Step 2: Layering the Dessert

Now that your pudding is ready, it’s time to assemble the layers!

Start with Cookies – In a serving dish or individual cups, place a layer of vanilla wafers or graham crackers. This forms the base of the pudding.
Add Fruit – Arrange a layer of banana slices and strawberries over the cookies.
Pour Pudding – Spoon a layer of the cooled pudding over the fruit, spreading it evenly.
Repeat the Layers – Continue layering cookies, fruit, and pudding until all ingredients are used, finishing with a pudding layer on top.
Chill the Dessert – Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). This allows the cookies to soften slightly and absorb the flavors.
Top Before Serving – Just before serving, add a generous dollop of whipped cream and garnish with extra strawberries and banana slices.

For a creative spin on layering techniques, check out Pinterest’s layered dessert ideas for visually stunning inspirations!

Now that you’ve mastered the basic method, let’s explore some tips to make your Strawberry Banana Pudding even better!

Tips for the Best Strawberry Banana Pudding

Want to take your Strawberry Banana Pudding to the next level? Follow these expert tips to achieve the perfect texture, flavor balance, and presentation!

✅ Use Ripe Bananas

For the best taste, use ripe bananas that are still firm. Overripe bananas can become too mushy when layered in the pudding. If you want to prevent them from browning, lightly coat the slices with lemon juice or pineapple juice.

🍓 Slice Strawberries Just Before Layering

Fresh strawberries can release juices if sliced too early, which may make the pudding watery. To keep them looking vibrant and tasting fresh, slice them just before assembling the dessert.

⏳ Let It Chill for Maximum Flavor

Refrigerating the pudding for at least 2 hours (or overnight) allows the cookies to soften, the flavors to meld, and the pudding to set properly. This step makes a huge difference in texture and taste!

🥄 Use Homemade Whipped Cream

While store-bought whipped cream works, making your own adds an extra touch of freshness and richness. Simply beat heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. For more insights on whipped cream, check out this guide on how it’s made.

🍪 Experiment with Different Cookies

Vanilla wafers are classic, but you can also try:

Graham crackers – For a honey-cinnamon flavor.
Shortbread cookies – For a buttery, crumbly texture.
Chocolate wafers – For a richer, cocoa-infused version.

Need inspiration for other layered desserts? Check out Pinterest’s creative pudding ideas to explore different flavor combinations!

🍫 Add Extra Indulgence

Want to make your pudding even more decadent? Try these add-ons:

Drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra richness.
Toasted coconut or chopped nuts for crunch.
Shaved white or dark chocolate for a gourmet touch.

By following these tips, your Strawberry Banana Pudding will be even more delicious and visually stunning! Now, let’s look at some fun variations you can try.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Strawberry Banana Pudding is its versatility. You can easily customize it to fit different dietary needs, flavor preferences, or creative twists. Here are some fun variations to try!

🥥 Dairy-Free Version

Want to make this recipe dairy-free? Simply swap out the dairy ingredients for these alternatives:

Milk Substitute: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
Butter Alternative: Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
Whipped Cream: Use coconut whipped cream for a light, dairy-free topping.

🌾 Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free pudding, swap the cookies with gluten-free alternatives:

Gluten-free vanilla wafers
Rice cakes or oat biscuits
Crushed gluten-free graham crackers

Make sure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, including cornstarch, as some brands may process it with gluten-containing products.

🍪 Different Cookies for a Unique Twist

Instead of vanilla wafers, try:

Oreo cookies – For a chocolatey contrast.
Biscoff cookies – Adds a spiced caramel flavor.
Ladyfingers – A classic, elegant option similar to tiramisu.

If you love experimenting with layered desserts, explore more Pinterest inspiration for unique puddings.

🍓 More Fruit Combinations

While strawberries and bananas are a match made in heaven, you can mix things up by adding:

Blueberries & raspberries – For a tangy berry blend.
Peaches & mangoes – A tropical twist!
Chopped apples & cinnamon – A warm, spiced variation.

If you’re interested in learning more about different fruits and their uses, check out this Wikipedia article on fruit desserts.

🍫 Extra Indulgent Additions

Take your pudding to the next level with:

Crushed chocolate bars – Adds a rich, chocolatey crunch.
Nutella or peanut butter drizzle – A creamy, nutty contrast.
Caramelized bananas – Slightly toasted and caramelized for extra flavor.

With these creative twists, you can make Strawberry Banana Pudding your own! Now, let’s look at the best ways to store it.

Storing & Making Ahead

Knowing how to store and prepare your Strawberry Banana Pudding in advance ensures that it stays fresh, flavorful, and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a party or just meal-prepping a sweet treat, here’s everything you need to know about storing this dessert.

🧊 How to Store Strawberry Banana Pudding

Proper storage is key to maintaining the creaminess and flavor of your pudding.

Refrigeration: Store the pudding in an airtight container or cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. This prevents the pudding from absorbing fridge odors.
Shelf Life: It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. However, after the second day, the bananas may start to brown slightly.
Preventing Soggy Cookies: If you prefer a crunchier texture, store the cookies separately and add them just before serving.

⏳ Can You Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! This pudding actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. If you’re planning for an event:

Make it the night before and let it chill overnight for the best flavor.
Assemble just before serving if you want the cookies to stay crispy.

❄️ Can You Freeze It?

Freezing is not recommended as the pudding can become grainy and the bananas will turn mushy when thawed. If you need a frozen version, consider making banana pudding popsicles by layering the pudding and fruit into molds and freezing them.

For more no-bake dessert ideas, check out Pinterest’s easy no-bake sweets collection.

By following these storage tips, you’ll always have a perfectly fresh Strawberry Banana Pudding ready to enjoy! Now, let’s answer some common questions about this delicious dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Strawberry Banana Pudding. Whether you’re wondering about substitutions, storage, or serving ideas, we’ve got you covered!

1. Can I use instant pudding instead of homemade?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use instant vanilla or banana pudding mix. Simply follow the package instructions and proceed with layering as usual. However, homemade pudding offers a richer and creamier texture that elevates the dessert.

2. Can I make this dessert the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, Strawberry Banana Pudding tastes even better the next day because the flavors meld together. Just be sure to refrigerate it and cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.

3. How do I keep bananas from turning brown?

Bananas tend to oxidize when exposed to air, but you can prevent browning by:

Lightly brushing banana slices with lemon juice or pineapple juice.
Layering the bananas between the pudding so they aren’t directly exposed to air.

4. What’s the best way to serve this dessert?

You can serve this pudding in various ways:

In a trifle dish – For a show-stopping presentation at gatherings.
In mason jars – Perfect for individual servings.
In a large baking dish – Great for scooping out portions for a crowd.

For creative serving ideas, check out Pinterest’s layered dessert inspirations.

5. Can I add other fruits?

Yes! While bananas and strawberries are the stars, you can also add:

Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry version.
Peach slices for a Southern-inspired twist.
Mango chunks for a tropical flair.

6. What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?

If you don’t have vanilla wafers, try:

Graham crackers – For a slightly honeyed crunch.
Biscoff cookies – Adds a spiced caramel flavor.
Oreo cookies – A chocolatey contrast to the fruity layers.

7. Can I make a sugar-free version?

Yes! Simply swap the granulated sugar for a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Also, be sure to use sugar-free vanilla wafers or graham crackers.

For more dessert customization ideas, check out Wikipedia’s guide on fruit-based desserts.

With these FAQs, you’re now fully prepared to make the best Strawberry Banana Pudding! Enjoy your sweet and creamy treat! 🍓🍌😍

Strawberry Banana Pudding – A Sweet and Creamy Delight!

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy, fruity, and indulgent no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! This delightful treat layers velvety homemade vanilla pudding with fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, and crunchy vanilla wafers or graham crackers. Topped with whipped cream and extra fruit, it’s a refreshing and satisfying dessert that’s easy to make. Ideal for summer parties, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight treat, this pudding combines the sweetness of bananas, the tanginess of strawberries, and the richness of custard into one irresistible bite! 🍓🍌

Ingredients

Scale

For the pudding:

2 cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the layers:

2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
20 vanilla wafers or graham crackers
½ cup whipped cream

Instructions

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to thicken.

In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a few tablespoons of the warm milk mixture to the yolks, stirring constantly to temper them.

Slowly pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, whisking continuously. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pudding is thick and smooth.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until fully combined. Let the pudding cool slightly.

In serving glasses or a dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, and strawberries. Pour a layer of pudding over the top and repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with whipped cream and extra fruit before serving.

Notes

Make-Ahead Friendly – This pudding tastes even better after chilling overnight as the flavors meld together.
Prevent Browning – Lightly coat banana slices with lemon or pineapple juice to keep them fresh.
Customizable Layers – Swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or Biscoff biscuits.
Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free cookies to make this a celiac-friendly dessert.
Dairy-Free Alternative – Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for whole milk and use coconut whipped cream.
Storage Tip – Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Serving Ideas – Serve in a trifle dish, mason jars, or a large glass bowl for a stunning presentation.