why make this recipe
Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is a delightful and creamy dessert that warms the heart with every bite. It combines fresh fruits with smooth layers of pudding and whipped topping, creating a sweet treat perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or just a fun evening at home. This dessert is easy to make, and it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s visually appealing with its colorful layers, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any table.
how to make Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
Ingredients:
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 container strawberries, sliced
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the French Vanilla pudding and milk to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- In a large serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
- Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the pudding mixture on top.
- Spread the whipped topping over the final layer and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
how to serve Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
Serve the Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream chilled. It’s great to scoop out generous portions and place them in bowls or on individual plates. You can also garnish each serving with additional slices of banana or strawberry if you want to make it look extra special!
how to store Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
Store leftover Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. However, for best taste and texture, it’s best to enjoy it fresh. If you have placed any slices on plates, cover them with plastic wrap before storing.
tips to make Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
- For a more intense flavor, consider using ripe bananas and fresh strawberries.
- You can swap out vanilla wafers for graham crackers if you prefer a different flavor.
- Be careful not to make the layers too thick; it will be easier to serve if the layers are balanced.
Make-Ahead & Party-Perfect Guide
Crowd-pleasing layers, zero last-minute stress.
Prep today, wow tomorrow: This dessert is better after it rests. Assemble as written, cover, and chill 4–24 hours so wafers soften into a cake-like layer and flavors meld.
No-brown banana trick: Slice bananas last and toss lightly with lemon juice (or pineapple/orange juice) before layering. The citrus slows browning without changing the flavor in the creamy mix.
Pretty layers that slice clean: Build thin, even layers (don’t overpack fruit). Press wafers into the pudding gently so they hydrate; finish with a smooth blanket of whipped topping for a bakery look.
Make it travel-friendly: Assemble in a trifle bowl or a 13×9-inch dish with a tight lid. Keep chilled in a cooler pack for potlucks. Add final fruit garnish at the table.
Texture control: Love more crunch? Reserve a handful of wafers to crumble on top just before serving. Prefer ultra-silky? Chill overnight so wafers fully soften.
Garnish like a pro: Fan a few strawberry slices on top, add wafer crumbs around the edge, and tuck in a few mint leaves for color right before serving.
variation
You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries to the layers for a mixed berry pudding. Another option is to use chocolate pudding instead of French Vanilla for a chocolatey twist.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes—this recipe thrives on chill time. Assemble and chill at least 4 hours (up to 24 hours). Longer resting = softer wafers and a more unified, sliceable dessert. Add any decorative fruit on top right before serving for the freshest look.
How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?
Toss slices very lightly with 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice (or pineapple/orange juice) per 2–3 bananas, then pat dry and layer. Also, fully cover fruit with pudding/whipped layers so less air reaches the bananas.
Can I use different cookies or a GF option?
Absolutely. Swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers, shortbread, or gluten-free vanilla wafers to keep the structure the same. If going GF, verify your pudding mix and whipped topping are certified gluten-free.
Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
Ingredients
Fruit Layers
- 6 to 8 pieces bananas, sliced Use ripe bananas for better flavor.
- 1 container strawberries, sliced
Pudding Mixture
- 2 cups milk Whole milk is recommended for a creamier texture.
- 1 box French Vanilla pudding (5 oz.)
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz.) Make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz.)
- 1 container whipped topping (12 oz.) For a lighter texture, you can use cool whip.
Layering Components
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers Can be substituted with graham crackers if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the French Vanilla pudding and milk to the mixture and stir until well combined.
Layering
- In a large serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
- Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the pudding mixture on top.
- Spread the whipped topping over the final layer.
Final Steps
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.