If there’s one dessert that has quietly carved out a cozy spot in my kitchen rotation, it’s this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream. The first time I whipped it up, I was craving something bright, creamy, and effortless. I remember standing in my kitchen, ripe bananas and fresh strawberries in hand, thinking, “This has to be the easiest and tastiest way to beat the afternoon slump.” And buddy, it did not disappoint.
What makes this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream so special is that it tastes like a strawberry banana dessert you’d order at a cute café, but with the satisfaction of having made it yourself in under 30 minutes—no fancy equipment, no fuss.
Every time I make it, it brings that feel-good vibe, balancing sweet and creamy just right. It’s exactly the kind of cream pudding with fruit that feels like a little celebration on a simple weekday night. Plus, it’s so easy that I stay excited to make it again and again.
You know those banana pudding recipes that feel a bit heavy or overly sweet? This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream keeps it fresh, light, and welcoming. My friends totally get it when I bring this out, and that reaction makes sharing this recipe a real joy.
If you’re looking for a strawberry pudding that’s as much about fun as it is flavor, your search ends here. So grab your favorite bowl, and let’s make something deliciously dreamy.
And hey, if you like this one, you’ll probably love my spin on strawberry shortcake—check it out for some all-day fruity inspiration. Also, if you’re into cream pudding with fruit, I’ve got a coconut almond chocolate pudding that’s a total crowd-pleaser too.
What You’ll Need:
This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream keeps the ingredient list totally approachable—because good food shouldn’t be complicated.

Here’s what you’ll want:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced (but not mushy!)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold whole milk (or your choice of milk)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that dreamy cream pudding texture)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 sleeve vanilla wafer cookies (or graham crackers for a twist)
Out of bananas or strawberries? No problem, you can swap in frozen fruit that’s been thawed—though fresh makes the flavor pop in this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream.
You can grab all these at any regular grocery store, making this recipe super budget-friendly. Bananas and strawberries are usually pretty affordable, and the pudding mix is a pantry staple for many.
Quick prep tip: slice your bananas and strawberries just before combining to keep them fresh-looking and tasty. And if you want leftovers, this dessert keeps beautifully covered in the fridge for up to 3 days—just a heads-up, the cookies soften over time, but that’s part of the charm!
Speaking of charm, here’s my secret little upgrade that takes this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream from good to ‘wow’: a pinch of cinnamon sprinkled on top before serving. It cuts the sweetness in the best way.
Let’s Cook This Together:
Ready to make this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream happen? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to it.
- Start by whipping the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This whipped cream adds that luscious layer to your strawberry banana dessert, and it’s easier than you think.
- In a separate bowl, mix the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk. Stir for about 2 minutes until it thickens—a magic moment in every strawberry pudding.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding until smooth. This is where the cream pudding with fruit flavor really shines.
- Now, grab your serving dish or individual cups. Begin layering: a base of vanilla wafers, then a layer of sliced bananas, followed by fresh strawberries, and finally a generous layer of the pudding mixture.
- Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a beautiful spread of pudding on top.
- Sprinkle a few crushed vanilla wafers and a light dusting of cinnamon if you’re feeling fancy.
Start to finish, this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream comes together in about 25 minutes—perfect timing to pour yourself a drink and relax while it chills for at least 1 hour in the fridge.
Here’s a handy multitasking nugget: while your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is chilling, tidy up your kitchen or get your playlist going. The moment it’s ready, your kitchen will feel like a fruity heaven.
If your pudding looks extra soft or the layers mix a little, it’s totally fine—this dessert is all about the joyful messiness of good food.
If you’re short on time, you can skip making whipped cream and just use a tub of store-bought whip. It’s a shortcut many friends swear by and still tastes amazing.
This is the step where I learned to be patient with my Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream—it makes all the difference letting it set properly.
How to Serve & Savor It:
This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream truly shines when you serve it with a crisp mint leaf or a drizzle of extra berry syrup for a little flair.
It’s my absolute favorite craving for a lazy weekend afternoon or when we’re having friends over for something sweet but uncomplicated.
Pair it with simple coffee or even a glass of chilled rosé to make the experience feel a little more special.
If you want to add a seasonal twist, try swapping strawberries for fresh peaches or even blueberries for a variation that still hits that easy fruit pudding note.
When I’ve had leftovers (which doesn’t happen often because my crew devours this), stirring the pudding into yogurt creates a breakfast treat that feels just as dreamy.
This strawberry banana dessert has been a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family dinners alike, especially when folks are looking for something lighter but still indulgent.
Your Questions, Answered:
1. Can I prep parts of this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream ahead?
Absolutely. You can prepare the pudding mixture and whipped cream a day in advance. Slice the fruit just before assembling to keep things fresh. The assembled dessert is best eaten within 1-2 days.
2. What’s a good swap for heavy cream in this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream?
Good question! If you’re skipping heavy cream, full-fat yogurt whipped lightly works, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries or bananas?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them well to keep excess moisture from watering down your strawberry banana dessert.
4. How can I make this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream for more or fewer people?
Scale the ingredients up or down easily. For a single serving, layer in a small glass; for a crowd, use a large trifle bowl.
5. Can I make this strawberry pudding vegan-friendly?
Totally doable by swapping the pudding mix for a dairy-free version, using plant-based milk, coconut cream, and vegan cookies.
6. How long does this pudding last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days. Beyond that, the cookies get very soft, but the flavors still taste great.
7. Are there other fruits that pair well in this strawberry pudding?
Definitely. Blueberries, peaches, or even mango add a fresh twist if you want to mix it up.
If you want more tips for creating fuss-free fruit desserts, check out this great no bake strawberry banana dream dessert on Facebook—it’s such inspiring everyday food!
Final Foodie Thoughts:
This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream holds a sweet little spot in my foodie heart because it’s simple enough for a Tuesday night but special enough to impress guests without breaking a sweat.
My Top Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream Tips:
- Always use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture.
- Chill it well—patience here pays off big time.
- Don’t skip the whipped cream; it makes the pudding sing.
Some variations I’ve loved include swapping vanilla wafers for gingersnaps for a spicy bite, adding toasted coconut on top for crunch, or tossing in a handful of chocolate chips between layers for a little indulgence.
The classic version remains the most requested, especially when I serve it up for weekend hangouts.
I encourage you to make this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream your own. Try those fruit swaps, play with toppings, and most importantly, enjoy every bite.
Can’t wait for you to jump in and taste that dreamy cream pudding with just the right fruity kick.
For extra inspiration, here’s my caramelized baked banana slices recipe that pairs wonderfully as a side or topping for your easy fruit pudding adventures.

Happy cooking, friend—this Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is all about sharing simple moments and delicious smiles.
For more strawberry banana dessert ideas, check out these fantastic recipes:
And speaking of no-bake treats, check out this no bake dessert strawberry banana dream recipe on Facebook—an everyday favorite fellow foodies swear by.
Also, for my southern dessert lovers, the Favorites Southern Strawberry Banana Pudding on Orchids + Sweet Tea is a must-see and gives this classic a soulful spin.
Finally, if you want to try a weekend twist, the Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe shared by Mr Make It Happen Chef on Facebook shows just how versatile and easy this all-time favorite can be.
Dive in and enjoy!
Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
A luscious and creamy strawberry banana pudding that combines fresh fruit with smooth vanilla pudding for a delightful and refreshing dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups vanilla pudding (prepared)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 large banana, sliced
- 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package instructions or use homemade pudding.
- In serving glasses or a bowl, layer a spoonful of crushed vanilla wafers.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries on top of the wafers.
- Pour a layer of vanilla pudding over the fruit.
- Repeat the layers until the glass or bowl is full, finishing with pudding on top.
- Top with whipped cream and drizzle honey if desired.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For an extra crunch, sprinkle additional crushed wafers just before serving. You can also substitute vanilla pudding with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan-friendly twist.

