Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a luscious, layered dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake, the classic comfort of banana pudding, and the bright, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries. With simple ingredients and no baking required, this dessert is ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a special family treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert offers the best of three worlds: the smoothness of cheesecake, the nostalgic taste of banana pudding, and the fresh sweetness of strawberries. It is easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and looks beautiful when layered in a dish or individual cups. The combination of textures—crispy wafers, creamy layers, and juicy fruit—makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cheesecake layer:
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the pudding layer:
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1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
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2 cups cold milk
For the dessert:
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1 box vanilla wafers (or other cookies of choice)
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2 bananas, sliced
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1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
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Crushed strawberry wafers (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps.
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Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
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Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to form the cheesecake layer. Set aside.
Prepare the pudding layer: 5. In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken. Let it sit for a few minutes to fully set.
Assemble the pudding: 6. In a large dish or individual serving cups, create a base layer with vanilla wafers. 7. Top the wafers with sliced bananas and chopped strawberries. 8. Spread a portion of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the fruit. 9. Spoon the vanilla pudding over the cheesecake layer and smooth it out. 10. Repeat the layers: wafers, fruit, cheesecake, and pudding until you reach the top.
Top and chill: 11. Garnish the top with fresh strawberries and crushed strawberry wafers if desired. 12. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the dessert to set and the flavors to meld.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8–10
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Chill Time: 3 hours (minimum)
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Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
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Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Variations
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Chocolate Version: Substitute chocolate pudding for vanilla and sprinkle chocolate shavings on top.
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Tropical Twist: Add layers of pineapple chunks or mango slices along with the bananas.
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Nutty Addition: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts between the layers for added crunch.
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Lighter Option: Use light cream cheese, sugar-free pudding mix, and low-fat milk.
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Cookie Swap: Try graham crackers or butter cookies instead of vanilla wafers for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Because of the fresh fruit, it is best enjoyed within the first two days to maintain the ideal texture and flavor.
Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the pudding and fruit.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Yes, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What type of strawberries are best?
Fresh, ripe strawberries provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Yes, you can substitute whipped topping for convenience.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
Toss the banana slices lightly with lemon juice to slow down browning.
Can I use a different flavor of pudding?
Yes, cheesecake, banana, or even white chocolate pudding would be delicious alternatives.
Can I assemble this in individual cups?
Yes, layering the dessert in clear cups makes for a beautiful presentation and easy serving.
How long does the dessert need to chill?
It should chill for at least 3 hours to fully set, but overnight is even better.
Can I add more layers?
Absolutely, layering more cookies, fruit, and cream makes it even more decadent.
What if I cannot find strawberry wafers for garnish?
You can use crushed vanilla wafers or omit the garnish altogether.
Is this dessert freezer-friendly?
It is not recommended to freeze, as the pudding and fruit do not thaw well.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a delightful, creamy dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this layered treat combines fresh fruit, rich cheesecake, and classic pudding for a crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a favorite. Prepare it in advance and watch it disappear in no time!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Layered
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is the ultimate no-bake dessert! Layers of creamy cheesecake filling, vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and juicy strawberries create a luscious, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Layer:
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Pudding Layer:
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1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
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2 cups cold milk
For the Dessert Assembly:
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1 box vanilla wafers (or cookies of choice)
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2 bananas, sliced
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1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
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Crushed strawberry wafers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth with no lumps.
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Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until completely smooth.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Set aside.
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In another bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
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In a dish or individual cups, layer vanilla wafers at the bottom.
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Add a layer of sliced bananas and chopped strawberries.
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Spread a portion of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the fruit.
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Spoon vanilla pudding over the cheesecake layer and smooth it out.
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Repeat layering cookies, fruit, cheesecake, and pudding as needed.
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Top with fresh strawberries and crushed wafers if using.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set.
Notes
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For extra flavor, drizzle a little strawberry syrup between layers.
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You can substitute graham crackers for vanilla wafers for a different twist.
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Best served cold, and eaten within 2 days for freshest taste.
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