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Strawberry Banana Pudding Dessert

This light and creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding Dessert is simple to prepare, wonderfully comforting, and perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruit Layer
  • 1 pint strawberries, washed and hulled Slice into bite-sized pieces.
  • 2 medium bananas, peeled and sliced Slice just before assembling to avoid browning.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Optional, for macerating strawberries.
Pudding Base
  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix Use as per package directions.
  • 2 cups cold milk For a richer texture, substitute half with half-and-half.
Whipped Topping
  • 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping For a light mousse-like texture.
Layers
  • 1 package vanilla wafers or cookies For added crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into bite-sized pieces. Peel and slice the bananas just before assembling to avoid browning.
  2. If you prefer a sweeter fruit layer, toss the strawberries with a teaspoon of sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.
Prepare the Pudding Base
  1. Use instant vanilla pudding for speed: whisk it with cold milk per package directions until smooth. For a richer texture, swap half the milk for half-and-half.
  2. If you’re making homemade pudding, cook it until thick, then cool slightly before assembling.
Whip the Topping
  1. Fold whipped cream or whipped topping into the pudding for a light, mousse-like texture.
Layer the Dessert
  1. In your serving dish (a 9x13 pan or a trifle bowl works great), spread a layer of pudding, then a layer of vanilla wafers or cookies.
  2. Add a layer of bananas and strawberries, then repeat the layers until you reach the top. Finish with a final layer of pudding and garnish with a few pretty slices of fruit.
Chill and Serve
  1. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours so flavors meld and cookies soften slightly. Overnight is even better if you’re planning ahead.
  2. Serve cold. For a fun finish, sprinkle crushed cookies or a few chocolate shavings on top.

Notes

Don't stress about perfection in layering. Bananas brown quickly; slice them just before layering or use lemon juice to prevent browning. If pudding seems thin, chill it; if too thick, a splash of milk will help. For firmer dessert, use a deeper layer of cookies and longer chilling time.