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Strawberry Banana Pudding Dessert

A quick, no-bake creamy dessert featuring layers of vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and bananas, perfect for busy families.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pudding Base
  • 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional) Adds tang and body to the pudding
  • 1 container whipped topping (8 oz) or homemade whipped cream (2 cups) Thawed
Fruit
  • 3 ripe bananas sliced (about 2 cups) Tossed with lemon juice
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries Hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar For macerating strawberries, optional
  • 1 tsp lemon juice To keep bananas from browning
Layers
  • 20-24 vanilla wafers Or 2 cups crushed shortbread/graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans or sliced almonds Optional for topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice bananas and toss gently with 1 tsp lemon juice to slow browning.
  2. Slice strawberries and put them in a small bowl with 1/2 cup sugar (if using). Let strawberries sit for 10-15 minutes to macerate.
Make the Pudding Base
  1. In a large bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mixes with 3 cups cold milk until slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
  2. Fold in the vanilla Greek yogurt or sour cream if using.
  3. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and airy.
Layer the Dessert
  1. Spread a thin layer of pudding in the bottom of your 9×13 dish.
  2. Add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices and macerated strawberries. Repeat until you reach the top.
  3. Finish with a final layer of pudding and arrange remaining strawberries on top. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.
Chill
  1. Chill the assembled pudding for at least 2 hours, preferably 4. Overnight is best if preparing for a party.
Serve
  1. Scoop into bowls or serve straight from the dish. Garnish with extra berries or crumbled cookies.

Notes

Make ahead: This dessert actually tastes better after a few hours. If making earlier, add a fresh banana layer just before serving.