Introduction
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic banana pudding, combining the creamy richness of traditional pudding with the sweet.
refreshing flavors of fresh strawberries and bananas. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave a comforting yet refreshing treat.
The layers of vanilla wafers, fresh fruit, and luscious pudding make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
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 frozen whipped topping
thawed, or equal amount sweetened whipped cream
Instructions
Begin by preparing the pudding according to the instructions on the box. Typically, you’ll mix the French vanilla pudding mix.
with the milk and whisk it until thickened, which should take about 2 minutes. Once the pudding has set, let it cool to room temperature.
While the pudding cools, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step.
Then, add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese and continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and combined.
Next, fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk mixture. Gently stir the whipped topping until fully incorporated, creating a smooth and fluffy mixture.
Now, it’s time to assemble the pudding. Start by arranging a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your serving dish.
You can use a 9×13-inch dish for the best results, but any size will work depending on your preference.
On top of the wafers, place a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of fresh strawberries. Then, spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the fruit, smoothing it evenly.
Repeat the layering process with more vanilla wafers, bananas, strawberries, and the remaining cream cheese mixture. After assembling the layers.
cover the dessert and place it in the refrigerator for several hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberries and banana slices if desired. For an added touch, sprinkle some crushed vanilla wafers on top for extra crunch.
How to Make
Making Strawberry Banana Pudding is simple and straightforward. The key is to take your time and layer the ingredients carefully.
Start with the pudding and let it cool completely before adding it to the dessert. This ensures it maintains a smooth and creamy texture throughout the dish.
To achieve the perfect texture, it’s important to use the correct consistency for the whipped topping and cream cheese mixture.
You want it to be light and airy, so don’t overmix it. Gently folding in the whipped topping will give you that smooth, light finish.
Choosing ripe bananas is also essential for the perfect dessert. Overripe bananas can get mushy too quickly.
while under-ripe bananas may be too firm and lack flavor. Find the sweet spot where they are perfectly ripe and slice them thinly for an even layer.
Another tip is to use fresh strawberries, as they add a vibrant color and juicy flavor. Avoid using pre-sliced.
strawberries as they tend to lose their freshness and texture quickly. Slice them just before adding them to the pudding for optimal freshness.
Be sure to let the pudding chill for at least a few hours or overnight. This resting.
time allows the flavors to develop, and the vanilla wafers to soften perfectly, giving the dessert its signature texture.
When ready to serve, garnish with extra banana and strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation.
Adding crushed vanilla wafers on top gives it a nice crunch and makes it even more visually appealing.
If you prefer to make this dessert ahead of time, it holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Tips
For an extra twist, try adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped topping or pudding for added flavor depth. These spices will complement the sweetness of the fruit without overpowering it.
If you don’t have whipped topping, you can substitute with homemade whipped cream. Just make sure it’s sweetened and whipped to stiff peaks for the best texture.
To make the pudding even richer, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dessert.
For a more decadent version, you can also mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips or toffee bits between the layers for a crunchy, chocolatey contrast to the fruit.
If you’re trying to cut down on sugar, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a sugar-free alternative.
There are several options available that will still give you the creamy texture without the added sweetness.
Make sure to serve the dessert chilled, as it will be much more refreshing and flavorful when it’s cold. Also, chilling it longer allows the layers to set more firmly, making it easier to serve in neat slices.
To make a smaller portion of this dessert, simply adjust the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, like an 8×8-inch pan, and halve the ingredients accordingly.
Conclusion
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a delicious and simple dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while offering a refreshing twist on a classic favorite.
With its layers of creamy pudding, fresh fruit, and crispy vanilla wafers, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create this indulgent dessert that will be enjoyed by everyone. Whether for a special celebration or a casual get-together, this Strawberry Banana Pudding is always a crowd favorite.