Strawberry Banana Pudding: A Classic Southern Dessert

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Introduction

Few desserts are as comforting and nostalgic as a well-made Strawberry Banana Pudding. This Southern-inspired treat layers creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, and crisp vanilla wafers for a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a sweet ending to any meal, this recipe is simple to prepare yet always impresses.

The combination of ripe bananas and sweet strawberries adds natural freshness, while the smooth vanilla pudding and cream cheese mixture create a rich, velvety texture. Topped with layers of vanilla wafers that soften slightly as they soak up the flavors, this dessert is a crowd favorite.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this Strawberry Banana Pudding comes together easily with minimal effort. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

  • 2 boxes (11 oz. each) vanilla wafers
  • 6 to 8 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 container (16 oz.) fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 (5 oz.) box French vanilla instant pudding mix
  • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the French vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually fold it into the pudding mixture until fully combined.
  3. If using, gently fold in whipped topping for an even creamier texture.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

  1. In a large trifle dish or rectangular baking pan, spread a layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom.
  2. Add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries over the wafers.
  3. Spoon a generous layer of the pudding mixture over the fruit, spreading evenly.
  4. Repeat the layers—wafers, bananas, strawberries, and pudding—until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover the pudding and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften slightly.
  2. Before serving, garnish with additional sliced strawberries, banana slices, or crushed vanilla wafers for a beautiful presentation.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Banana Pudding is a delightful twist on the traditional banana pudding, adding fresh strawberries for a burst of color and flavor. The creamy vanilla pudding, softened wafers, and layers of fruit make every bite irresistible.

Easy to prepare and always a hit, this dessert is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a summer barbecue, holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for the family. The best part? It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort with every spoonful!

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