Best Strawberry Banana Pudding

This strawberry banana pudding transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping dessert that's guaranteed to impress at any gathering. The combination of creamy pudding layers with fresh fruit and crisp cookies creates a texture and flavor explosion that gets even better as it chills.

I first made this pudding for a summer barbecue when I needed something that wouldn't melt in the heat. My guests practically licked their bowls clean, and now it's requested at every family gathering we have.

Ingredients

• Vanilla pudding mix creates the classic base flavor that complements the fruits perfectly
• Banana cream pudding mix doubles down on the banana flavor without relying solely on fresh fruit
• Milk must be very cold to properly set the pudding
• Cream cheese adds richness and a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness
• Vanilla extract enhances all the flavors in the dessert
• Cinnamon brings warmth and complexity to the creamy layers
• Sweetened condensed milk creates that distinctive silky texture everyone loves
• Cool whip makes the pudding extra fluffy and provides the perfect topping
• Chessman butter cookies add buttery crunch and make a beautiful presentation
• Nilla wafers are classic in banana pudding and soften perfectly as they absorb moisture
• Bananas should be ripe but still firm enough to slice cleanly
• Strawberries bring bright color and fresh flavor that elevates this beyond traditional banana pudding
• Strawberry glaze intensifies the berry flavor and creates gorgeous visual appeal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pudding base.

Add your vanilla pudding and banana cream pudding mix to a large bowl, then pour in the cold milk. Use an electric mixer and blend the milk with the pudding mixture until fully combined and beginning to thicken. This crucial step usually takes about 2-3 minutes, and you'll notice the texture change from liquid to a soft pudding consistency.

Create the cream cheese mixture.

Once the pudding is thickened, set it aside. Add the softened cream cheese to a separate bowl, along with the vanilla extract, the cinnamon, and the sweetened condensed milk. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining. The cream cheese must be truly at room temperature to achieve the silky texture needed.

Combine the mixtures.

Pour the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding mix and use a spatula to gently combine them together. Then fold one container of cool whip into the pudding mixture using a light hand. Avoid overmixing as you want to preserve the fluffiness that makes this dessert so special.

Begin layering.

Start with a small amount of pudding mixture spread across the bottom of your dish. This creates a foundation for the cookies. Next, arrange a layer of chessman cookies, followed by a layer of nilla wafers. Add a layer of thinly sliced bananas, and then strawberries. For visual appeal, place some strawberry slices against the glass if using a clear dish.

Continue building layers.

Drizzle some strawberry glaze over the fruit, then add another layer of pudding. Repeat the layering process with cookies, bananas, strawberries, and glaze until you reach the top of your dish or run out of ingredients. Each layer should be distinct but not overly thick.

Add the finishing touches.

For the final layer, spread the remaining container of cool whip in an even layer across the top. Decorate with any leftover strawberries, crushed nilla wafers, and a final drizzle of strawberry glaze for a professional presentation.

Chill before serving.

Cover the pudding lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is preferable. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften to the perfect texture.

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The strawberry glaze is my secret weapon in this recipe. While many banana puddings rely solely on the fruit for flavor, the glaze adds a concentrated berry flavor that takes this dessert from good to unforgettable. My grandmother always said a truly memorable dessert should appeal to both the eyes and the palate, and the vibrant red color against the creamy pudding achieves exactly that.

Make It Your Own

This versatile dessert can be adapted to suit different preferences or occasions. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and light cool whip. The pudding will still maintain its luxurious texture but with fewer calories per serving. You can also experiment with different fruit combinations based on what's in season—blueberries and peaches work beautifully in summer, while mandarin oranges add wonderful flavor in winter months.

Storage Tips

The assembled pudding keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the bananas may darken slightly after the first day. To extend freshness, make sure your plastic wrap touches the surface of the cool whip to prevent it from developing a skin. Individual portions can be scooped into airtight containers for convenient grab-and-go treats throughout the week. I recommend not freezing this dessert as the texture of the fruit and cookies will change significantly when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

This showstopper dessert deserves special presentation. Serve in crystal bowls or glass trifle dishes to showcase the beautiful layers. For individual portions, use stemless wine glasses or mason jars for a charming presentation. This pudding pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, and for adult gatherings, a glass of dessert wine or champagne complements the fruity flavors perfectly. For extra indulgence, offer additional strawberry glaze on the side for guests to drizzle over their portions.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! This dessert actually benefits from being made ahead. While it needs a minimum of 30 minutes to chill, making it the day before serving allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften to the perfect texture. Just keep it covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator until serving time.

→ What can I substitute for the strawberry glaze?

If you can't find strawberry glaze, you can make your own by cooking down strawberries with sugar until thick, or use strawberry jam thinned with a little water. Alternatively, you could use strawberry syrup or even a drizzle of honey mixed with a few mashed strawberries.

→ Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! You can substitute homemade whipped cream for the Cool Whip. For each 8-ounce container of Cool Whip, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

→ How long will this dessert keep in the refrigerator?

The pudding will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the bananas may start to darken and the texture of the dessert may become too soft. For best presentation and taste, enjoy within the first 48 hours of preparation.

→ Can I freeze leftover strawberry banana pudding?

This dessert doesn't freeze well due to the fresh fruits and cream components. Freezing would cause the texture to become watery when thawed, and the bananas and strawberries would lose their consistency. It's best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.

→ What's the best dish to serve this pudding in?

A trifle dish is ideal as it shows off the beautiful layers. If you don't have one, any clear glass bowl works well. For individual servings, clear glasses or mason jars create an impressive presentation that highlights all the colorful layers.