Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together the comfort of banana pudding and the indulgence of strawberry cheesecake, this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is about to become your new favorite. With its rich layers of whipped cream cheese, luscious strawberries, sweet bananas, and crunchy cookies, it’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or just craving something sweet, this dessert checks every box. The best part? It requires no baking and comes together with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

My recipe story

I first made this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding when I wanted something impressive yet fuss-free for a summer barbecue. Traditional banana pudding has always been a staple in my family, but I wanted to elevate it with a creamy cheesecake layer and fresh strawberries for a fruity twist. The result was an instant hit—guests went back for seconds, and I left with no leftovers. Since then, it’s become my go-to dessert whenever I need something that feels both comforting and indulgent. The combination of textures—soft bananas, smooth cream, crunchy wafers—makes it irresistible every single time.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a role in creating layers of flavor and texture. Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer, lending a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of the pudding and fruit. Heavy whipping cream adds a light, airy quality to the filling, keeping it from feeling too dense. When whipped together, these two create a dreamy cheesecake-like mousse without the need for baking.

Bananas are essential, of course, providing natural sweetness and a soft, creamy bite that pairs beautifully with strawberries. The strawberries not only add a burst of fruity freshness but also bring vibrant color to the dessert, making it visually stunning. Vanilla wafers (or graham crackers, if you prefer) act as the crunchy base, soaking up some of the cream and fruit juices over time, transforming into a cake-like texture that ties everything together. A touch of powdered sugar and vanilla extract enhances the cream mixture, while optional garnishes like strawberry syrup or cookie crumbs take the presentation over the top.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula for folding cream
• Trifle dish or 9×13 baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board for fruit
• Plastic wrap for chilling

Step-by-step directions

1. Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This creates a fluffy, tangy base for your pudding layers.
2. Slice the bananas and strawberries: Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid browning too quickly. Slice them into even rounds. For strawberries, wash, hull, and slice them into thin pieces. Keeping the slices uniform helps create neat layers and ensures even distribution of fruit flavor throughout the dessert.
3. Layer the wafers: Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom of your trifle dish or baking dish. This will act as the foundation. Try to cover the base completely, even breaking a few cookies in half to fill gaps if necessary. The wafers will soften slightly as the dessert chills, creating a cake-like texture.
4. Add the cheesecake mixture: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over the wafers. Use a spatula to smooth it evenly, making sure it reaches the edges of the dish. This ensures every bite has a creamy component and helps hold the fruit and cookie layers together.
5. Layer the fruit: Arrange banana slices evenly over the cream mixture, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Keep the layers thin and consistent so each scoop has both fruits. The strawberries add color, while the bananas provide sweetness and softness.
6. Repeat the layers: Continue layering wafers, cheesecake mixture, and fruit until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a top layer of the cream cheese mixture. This final layer makes a perfect canvas for decoration and keeps the fruit underneath fresh.
7. Decorate and chill: Garnish with crushed wafers, fresh strawberries, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the wafers to soften into a cake-like consistency.
8. Serve and enjoy: Scoop into bowls or slice into squares, depending on your dish. Each serving should reveal beautiful layers of cream, fruit, and wafers. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge.

Variations & substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap vanilla wafers for graham crackers or shortbread cookies for a slightly different texture and flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, try blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a fruity variation. For a richer flavor, add a swirl of strawberry jam or cheesecake pudding mix to the cream layer. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or lemon, to give the cheesecake mixture a unique twist. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping instead of heavy cream.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 48 hours when the fruit is freshest. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the cream from absorbing other fridge odors. If you want to prepare it ahead, assemble the layers up to one day in advance and keep chilled until ready to serve. Freezing is not recommended, as the bananas can turn mushy and the cream layer may lose its smooth texture. For longer storage, consider assembling the cream cheese mixture separately and layering with fresh fruit just before serving.

Serving ideas & pairings

Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is delightful on its own, but you can make it extra special by pairing it with complementary flavors. Serve with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent twist. Pair with a glass of iced coffee or a fruity sparkling drink for a refreshing combination. For summer gatherings, offer it alongside grilled fruit skewers or light lemon bars. You can also present it in individual parfait cups for elegant party servings, topping each with a fresh strawberry fan or mint sprig for a beautiful finish.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours before serving. In fact, chilling overnight enhances the flavors.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries work best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the pudding.

What if I don’t have vanilla wafers?
You can substitute graham crackers, ladyfingers, or even shortbread cookies for a similar effect.

How can I prevent the bananas from browning?
Brush banana slices with a little lemon juice or pineapple juice before layering them into the dish.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream as substitutes. The result will still be creamy and delicious.

Final thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a dessert that brings together the best of two classics—banana pudding and strawberry cheesecake—into one unforgettable treat. Its creamy layers, fresh fruit, and cookie crunch make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The fact that it’s no-bake and simple to prepare is just the icing on the cake. Whether you’re sharing it at a party or enjoying it as a family treat, this dessert is sure to leave everyone smiling and asking for seconds. Add it to your recipe collection, and you’ll always have a winning dessert up your sleeve.

Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)
• Yield: 10–12 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy, no-bake layered dessert with cheesecake filling, bananas, strawberries, and vanilla wafers. Perfect for parties or family gatherings.

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Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk

• 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 box vanilla wafers (about 11 oz)

• Optional: crushed wafers or strawberry syrup for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla.

2. Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

3. In another bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Fold into the cheesecake mixture.
4. Layer vanilla wafers on the bottom of a trifle dish or baking dish.

5. Spread a layer of cheesecake-pudding mixture over the wafers, then add sliced bananas and strawberries.

6. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cream mixture on top.
7. Garnish with crushed wafers, fresh strawberries, or syrup. Chill at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

Best enjoyed within 2–3 days. To prevent bananas from browning, brush slices lightly with lemon juice. Serve in a trifle dish or individual cups for an elegant presentation.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American