If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a big warm hug on a spoon, this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe is your go-to treat. It’s a luscious blend of creamy cheesecake, fluffy whipped cream, sweet vanilla pudding, and fresh fruit layers, all coming together with the nostalgic crunch of vanilla wafers. The combination of strawberries and bananas not only brightens the flavor but also adds a fresh, summery vibe that keeps you coming back for more. It’s surprisingly simple to make yet impressively rich and delightful—a perfect mix for sharing with family or treating yourself on any day that calls for a little indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe just right is all about the balance of ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role: the cream cheese brings tangy creaminess, the whipped cream adds lightness, and the pudding offers that classic silky texture. Of course, fresh strawberries and bananas provide natural sweetness and vibrant color, while vanilla wafers give that needed crunch and nostalgia.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to stiff peaks to lift the texture and add fluffiness.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer without any grit.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A splash of warm vanilla enhances all the flavors.
- Vanilla instant pudding mix (5.1 oz box): Creates that classic, creamy pudding base in minutes.
- Cold milk (2 cups): Needed to make the pudding thick and smooth.
- Vanilla wafers (1 box): These add crunch and help soak up the flavors beautifully.
- Bananas (2, sliced): Fresh and ripe bananas give natural sweetness and softness.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, chopped, plus extra for garnish): Bright, juicy, and full of color.
- Crushed strawberry wafers (optional): Perfect for an extra pop of strawberry flavor and decorative crunch on top.
How to Make Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until everything is fully blended. This mixture forms the rich and tangy backbone of your pudding dish, so getting it smooth is key.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until you see stiff peaks—this means it’s firm enough to hold shape. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate it. This step is what transforms the dense cream cheese into a light, fluffy cheesecake filling that’s pure bliss in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Vanilla Pudding
Whisk the vanilla instant pudding mix together with the cold milk for about 2 minutes until it thickens nicely. Set aside for a few minutes to let it firm up further. This pudding layer adds a silky smooth texture and classic vanilla flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy cheesecake mix.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Grab a lovely serving dish and start by placing a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom. Then, sprinkle sliced bananas and chopped strawberries over the cookies. This fruity layer brings freshness, natural sweetness, and beautiful color right where you want it.
Step 5: Add the Cream Layers
Spread a generous layer of the cheesecake mixture over the fruit, followed by a layer of the vanilla pudding. Keep layering in this order—cookies, fruit, cheesecake mix, pudding—until you run out of ingredients or reach your desired height. These alternating layers create a wonderful medley of textures and flavors in every spoonful.
Step 6: Chill and Garnish
Top your masterpiece with fresh strawberries and crushed strawberry wafers if you like a little extra crunch and color. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. This chilling time lets the flavors meld together while the pudding firms up, making your Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe even more irresistible.
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Presentation is part of the fun, and fresh garnishes really make this pudding shine. Use whole strawberries, banana slices, and a sprinkle of crushed strawberry wafers on top right before serving for a lovely finish that invites everyone in. A sprig of fresh mint can also add a refreshing contrast and a pop of green color.
Side Dishes
This pudding is a pretty complete dessert, but it pairs wonderfully with simple extras like a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light glass of sparkling water with lemon. Keep sides minimal to let the pudding take center stage, especially since its creamy texture and fruity flavors are so satisfying on their own.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic serving dish and impress your guests by layering this dessert in individual glasses or mason jars. This not only looks charming but makes serving easier for parties or potlucks. You can also try adding a drizzle of strawberry sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra touch of decadence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent absorbing other fridge odors. The cookies will continue to soak and soften, intensifying the flavors in a good way.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for this dessert due to the fresh fruit texture changes and whipped cream, you can freeze portions without the fruit layers for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh fruit on top before serving for best results. This way, you maintain the pudding’s luscious texture.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. It’s best enjoyed cold to savor the creamy cheesecake, fruity freshness, and pudding’s cool silkiness all together. If you prefer, just let it sit at room temperature a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for best texture and taste, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the pudding watery.
What can I substitute for vanilla wafers?
You can swap vanilla wafers with shortbread cookies, graham crackers, or even crushed digestive biscuits. Just pick a cookie with a mild flavor that won’t overpower the delicate pudding layers.
Is there a way to make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can try using dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and a dairy-free vanilla pudding mix along with plant-based milk. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long should I chill the pudding before serving?
For the best texture and flavor melding, chill at least 3 hours, but overnight is even better. This resting time lets the layers soften perfectly and the flavors harmonize beautifully.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger serving dish or multiple smaller ones. The layering process remains the same, and it’s great for parties or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Making the Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe is like creating a little piece of happiness in your kitchen. Its creamy, fruity layers and delightful textures are guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just craving a luscious dessert after a long day, this recipe delivers pure joy with every bite. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a new favorite to cherish and share.
Print
Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a luscious, no-bake dessert combining creamy cheesecake, fresh fruit, and classic vanilla pudding layered over crunchy vanilla wafers. Perfectly chilled for a few hours, this treat offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or a sweet family indulgence.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Vanilla Pudding
- 1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Fruit and Layers
- 1 box vanilla wafers (or other cookies of choice)
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Crushed strawberry wafers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Set this cheesecake mixture aside.
- Make the Vanilla Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Allow it to stand and firm up for a few minutes before layering.
- Layer the Dessert: In a serving dish, start by layering the vanilla wafers evenly at the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas and chopped strawberries over the cookies.
- Add Cream and Pudding Layers: Spread a generous layer of the cheesecake mixture over the fruit, followed by a layer of the vanilla pudding. Repeat these layers as needed, depending on your dish size and desired thickness.
- Garnish and Chill: Top the final layer with fresh strawberries and optionally crushed strawberry wafers for extra crunch. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up completely before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness in layers.
- You can substitute vanilla wafers with any cookie of your choice, such as graham crackers or shortbread.
- Allowing the dessert to chill overnight enhances the flavor and texture considerably.
- Use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for optimal freshness and flavor.
- For a quicker version, chill for a minimum of 3 hours but overnight chilling is recommended.
