Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Banana Strawberry Vanilla Wafer Dessert is the ultimate crowd-pleasing classic with a fresh, fruity twist. Creamy, sweet, and perfectly layered, it combines soft vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, juicy strawberries, and a rich pudding filling that melts together beautifully. It’s a no-bake dessert that feels indulgent yet light, making it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want an easy dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10–12
Calories: Approximately 350–400 kcal per serving

Ingredients Overview

This dessert is built in layers, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk form a smooth, luscious base, while French vanilla pudding adds structure and richness. Fresh bananas and strawberries bring brightness and freshness, while vanilla wafers soften into cake-like layers as the dessert chills.

Ingredients

Layers

• 2 boxes vanilla wafers
• 6–8 bananas, sliced
• 1 container strawberries, sliced

Cream Filling

• 2 cups milk
• 1 (5 oz) box French vanilla pudding mix
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 12 oz whipped topping, thawed

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Large serving dish or trifle bowl

Additions and Variations

Flavor Boosts

• Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for deeper flavor
• Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the banana layers

Fruit Swaps

• Replace strawberries with blueberries or raspberries
• Add crushed pineapple (well-drained) for a tropical touch

Crunch Options

• Mix crushed vanilla wafers into the pudding layer
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cream Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together until smooth and creamy. Add the French vanilla pudding mix and milk, mixing until fully combined and thickened.

Build the First Layer

Arrange a layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of your serving dish. Top evenly with sliced bananas and strawberries.

Add the Cream Layer

Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers, spreading gently to cover the entire layer.

Repeat the Layers

Add another layer of vanilla wafers, followed by bananas and strawberries. Pour the remaining pudding mixture evenly over the top.

Finish with Whipped Topping

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the final layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. This dessert pairs beautifully with iced tea, coffee, or a light sparkling drink. Garnish with extra sliced strawberries or crushed vanilla wafers just before serving for a polished presentation.

Helpful Tips

Slice bananas just before layering to prevent browning. Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture. For clean slices, refrigerate overnight and serve cold.

Storage Notes

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed fresh, as the bananas may darken slightly over time.

Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

---

• Author: Sophia

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Ingredients

• – 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• – 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• – 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• – 1 cup powdered sugar
• – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• – 2 cups whipped topping
• – 1 package (3.4 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix
• – 2 cups milk
• – 1 package (12 oz) vanilla wafers

---

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

2. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the instant cheesecake pudding mix and milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.

4. Layer half of the vanilla wafers at the bottom of a trifle dish or a large bowl.

5. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the wafers, followed by half of the banana slices and half of the strawberries.

6. Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, cream cheese mixture, bananas, and strawberries.

7. Top with any remaining whipped topping and garnish with additional strawberries if desired.

8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

Notes

Use ripe bananas for better sweetness and flavor in the pudding.

Chill the pudding overnight for an even richer taste and texture.