Irresistible Strawberry Banana Pudding: A Southern Classic with a Berry Twist
This Strawberry Banana Pudding combines the nostalgic comfort of traditional banana pudding with the sweet-tart flavor of fresh strawberries. This no-bake dessert features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, crisp Nilla wafers, fresh banana slices, and sweet strawberry filling for a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you need a quick impressive dessert!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 2+ hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes Servings: 8-10 | Calories: Approximately 285 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Banana Pudding
This isn’t just any ordinary banana pudding – the addition of strawberries transforms this classic Southern dessert into something extraordinary:
- Perfect Balance: The sweet bananas complement the slightly tart strawberries
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead
- No Baking Required: Ideal for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven
- Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find items you may already have in your pantry
- Crowd-Pleaser: Wins over both traditional banana pudding fans and those looking for something new
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1 box Nilla wafers
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup strawberry pie filling or chopped strawberries
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and 2 cups cold milk for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken. Make sure there are no lumps remaining for the smoothest texture.
2. Create the Creamy Filling
Gently fold the thawed 8 oz container of whipped topping into the pudding mixture until fully incorporated. Use a rubber spatula and a light hand to maintain the fluffy texture. This creates the perfect creamy base for your layers.
3. Begin the Assembly Process
Select a clear trifle dish, 9×9 baking dish, or individual serving glasses to showcase the beautiful layers. Start by arranging a single layer of Nilla wafers on the bottom of your serving dish.
4. Build Your First Complete Layer
Add a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers, making sure to cover the entire surface. Next, spread approximately 1/3 of your pudding mixture evenly over the banana slices. Then add a layer of strawberry pie filling or chopped strawberries.
5. Repeat the Layering Process
Create a second complete layer by repeating the sequence: Nilla wafers, banana slices, pudding mixture, and strawberry filling. Continue until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the pudding mixture on top.
6. Add the Final Touches
Decorate the top of your pudding with additional Nilla wafers, pressing them slightly into the pudding around the edges. For an extra special presentation, you can add a few sliced strawberries and banana slices in the center.
7. Chill to Perfection
Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften slightly, creating that perfect pudding texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator and scoop generous portions into serving bowls. The beautiful layers will be revealed with each delicious spoonful!
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Banana Pudding
- Banana Selection: Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm for the best texture and flavor
- Prevent Browning: Dip banana slices in lemon juice before adding to the pudding to prevent browning
- Strawberry Options: When strawberries are in season, use fresh chopped strawberries tossed with 1 tablespoon of sugar instead of pie filling
- Make it Prettier: Reserve a few Nilla wafers, banana slices, and strawberries to decorate the top just before serving
- Chill Factor: Don’t rush the chilling process – the longer it chills (up to 24 hours), the more the flavors develop
- Serving Suggestion: Use a clear dish to showcase the beautiful layers of this stunning dessert
Delicious Variations to Try
Triple Berry Banana Pudding
Add blueberries and raspberries along with the strawberries for a patriotic red, white, and blue dessert perfect for summer holidays.
Chocolate Strawberry Banana Pudding
Substitute chocolate instant pudding for the vanilla pudding mix for a decadent chocolate-covered-strawberry inspired dessert.
Strawberry Banana Pudding Parfaits
Layer the ingredients in individual mason jars or glasses for elegant single-serving desserts that are perfect for parties.
Storage Information
This Strawberry Banana Pudding can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the texture is best within the first 24-48 hours. The bananas may darken slightly over time, but the flavor remains delicious!
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the pudding and fruits will change significantly upon thawing.
Perfect Occasions for Strawberry Banana Pudding
This eye-catching dessert is perfect for:
- Summer potlucks and barbecues
- Baby showers and bridal showers
- Sunday family dinners
- Holiday gatherings
- Make-ahead weeknight treats
- Valentine’s Day (strawberries make it festively red!)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert a day ahead? Absolutely! In fact, making it 12-24 hours ahead allows the flavors to develop and the wafers to soften to the perfect texture.
Can I use sugar-free pudding mix? Yes, sugar-free vanilla pudding mix works well in this recipe for a lighter version.
What can I substitute for Nilla wafers? Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or vanilla sandwich cookies all make excellent substitutes.
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess liquid in your dessert.
How do I keep my bananas from turning brown? Slice the bananas just before assembling and make sure they’re completely covered by pudding, or dip them briefly in lemon juice.
Give this Strawberry Banana Pudding a try at your next gathering and watch how quickly it disappears! The combination of creamy pudding, crunchy wafers, sweet bananas, and bright strawberries creates a dessert experience that’s truly unforgettable.
