Strawberry Banana Pudding is easy to make and absolutely delicious — a playful twist on dirt pudding that combines classic banana pudding flavor with a bright strawberry layer.
If you enjoy this recipe, try my French Strawberry Cake next!
I’ve always loved strawberries — I grew up near Troy, Ohio and the annual strawberry festival was a highlight of summer. That fondness for fresh berries shows up in many of my recipes. In this pudding, I combine mashed frozen strawberries with banana slices, a creamy vanilla pudding mixture, and crunchy cookie crumbs for a dessert that’s rich, balanced, and crowd-pleasing.
More strawberry recipes
- Deviled Strawberries
- Strawberry Daiquiri
- Strawberry Spoon Cake
Why this recipe works
This strawberry banana pudding blends elements from several favorites: the richness of sweetened condensed milk found in classic banana pudding, a strawberry layer made with thawed frozen berries for bright flavor, and crushed Oreo cookies for a dirt-pudding-style base. Cream cheese gives the filling body and a slight tang, creating a custardy texture reminiscent of a no-bake cheesecake. The result is a layered dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and texturally interesting.
Ingredients for easy delicious strawberry banana pudding
- Strawberries – Frozen strawberries are mashed for the bright, slightly tart strawberry layer. Fresh berries are used for garnish.
- Fresh bananas – Sliced bananas are layered in the pudding and used as a garnish. Toss slices in a little lemon juice if preparing ahead to prevent browning.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix – One 3.4 oz box.
- Cream cheese – Softened cream cheese adds structure and a subtle tang.
- Sweetened condensed milk – Thick and sweet, it helps the filling set without becoming runny.
- Vanilla extract – Pure vanilla intensifies the pudding flavor.
- Cool Whip – Convenient and stable; you can substitute homemade whipped cream if you prefer.
- Oreo cookies – Crushed for a chocolatey crunch. Swap in vanilla wafers, shortbread, or graham crackers if desired.
Instructions for strawberry banana pudding
- Crush the Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a heavy-duty zip-top bag and rolling with a rolling pin.
- Microwave the frozen strawberries in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2 minutes, then mash with a fork. Chill the mashed berries until ready to use.
- Slice the bananas. If making ahead, toss slices with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, instant pudding mix, and vanilla extract; beat until combined. Stir in about 1 1/2 cups of Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy. If using homemade whipped cream, fold it in gently with a spatula.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture into the bottom of a trifle bowl or serving dish. Spoon half the mashed strawberries over the pudding and gently swirl them into the top. Arrange half the banana slices over the strawberries, then sprinkle with half the crushed cookies.
- Repeat the layers: the remaining pudding, mashed strawberries, banana slices, and cookie crumbs.
- Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the top and garnish with fresh sliced strawberries and banana slices.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to ripen bananas?
Place bananas in a brown paper bag, loosely closed, for 24–36 hours. Adding a ripe apple or avocado to the bag speeds the process.
How do I keep banana slices from turning brown?
A light coating of citric acid from lemon, orange, or pineapple juice keeps banana slices from browning. Strawberries also contain some natural acid, which helps a bit.
Why is my banana pudding runny?
Runny pudding usually means too much liquid or inadequate thickening. This recipe avoids that by using sweetened condensed milk and cream cheese for body, plus instant pudding mix and whipped topping to create a stable, creamy filling.
Storage directions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture will change.
Serving suggestions
This pudding is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. Pair it with easy savory sides like deviled eggs or a simple pasta salad for a balanced spread.
Kitchen tools
- Trifle bowl or deep serving dish (a lidded trifle bowl is handy for transport)
- Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
- Hand mixer or whisk if you prefer to mix by hand
Strawberry Banana Pudding
Strawberry Banana Pudding is an easy, layered no-bake dessert that combines creamy vanilla filling, mashed strawberries, fresh banana slices, and crunchy cookie crumbs.
Details
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12
- Calories (per serving): 340 kcal
- Author: Jill McOwen
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups frozen whole strawberries
- 3 fresh strawberries, sliced for garnish
- 2 medium bananas
- 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 16 oz Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)
- 12 Oreo cookies, crushed (or vanilla wafers)
Notes
The top layer of whipped cream is generous in the photos; feel free to use less if you prefer a thinner topping.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 340 | Carbohydrates: 51 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 14 g | Saturated Fat: 7 g | Sugar: 39 g | Sodium: 227 mg
Thank you for reading. If you make this recipe, please share your results and leave a rating — it helps others find and enjoy it!
More great dessert recipes
- Lemon Bars with Graham Cracker Crust
- Jello Cake
- Coconut Key Lime Crinkle Cookies