.Introduction
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a dreamy, layered no-bake dessert that blends three classics—banana pudding, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries. Every spoonful delivers silky richness, fruity brightness, and nostalgic comfort. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, cookouts, or easy weeknight indulging with minimal effort.
Origin
Banana pudding is a Southern American staple, evolving through church cookbooks and family reunions across generations. As cheesecake-style fillings gained popularity, home bakers began blending them into classic banana pudding, and eventually adding fresh fruit like strawberries for a modern, vibrant twist. The result: a luscious, crowd-pleasing hybrid dessert.
Cultural Significance
This pudding represents the heart of Southern hospitality—simple ingredients layered into something luxurious and comforting. It’s a favorite at summer gatherings, Easter, birthdays, and barbecues. The addition of strawberries brings in springtime freshness, making the dessert both nostalgic and contemporary.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Cheesecake Pudding Layer
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant cheesecake or vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
For the Layers
- 1 box vanilla wafers (or chessmen cookies)
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- Extra whipped topping for layering or garnish
Optional Additions
- Add strawberry jam between layers for more berry flavor
- Use half graham crackers, half vanilla wafers
- Add crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a more vibrant strawberry punch
- Add a splash of lemon juice to strawberries to brighten the flavor
- Sprinkle crushed cookies on top right before serving
Tips for Success
- Use cold milk so the pudding sets smoothly.
- Soften your cream cheese completely to avoid lumps.
- Slice bananas right before layering to prevent browning.
- For firmer layers, chill at least 4 hours—overnight is best.
- Keep strawberries dry; pat them with a paper towel to prevent watery layers.
- Fold, don’t whisk, when adding whipped topping to keep the mixture fluffy.
Instructions
Make the Cheesecake Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thick.
- Add pudding mixture to the cream cheese mixture and blend until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in whipped topping until light and creamy.
Assemble the Dessert
- In a 9×13-inch dish, add a layer of vanilla wafers.
- Add a layer of banana slices.
- Add a layer of strawberries.
- Spread half the cheesecake pudding mixture over the fruit.
- Repeat layers: wafers → bananas → strawberries → remaining pudding.
- Top with extra whipped topping and additional sliced strawberries.
Chill
- Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
Description
This dessert features cloud-soft cheesecake pudding layered with tender bananas, juicy strawberries, and classic vanilla wafers that soften into a cake-like texture. The combination of tart berries, creamy filling, and nostalgic banana flavor makes every bite refreshing, rich, and perfectly balanced.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, 12 servings)
- Calories: ~360
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Sugar: 38g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
(Values vary depending on cookies and whipped topping brand.)
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a show-stopping no-bake dessert that delivers layers of fruity sweetness and creamy decadence. Easy to assemble, stunning to serve, and universally loved—this is a dish that turns any occasion into something special.
Recommendation
Serve chilled with extra sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of crushed wafers, or a drizzle of strawberry sauce. This dessert keeps well for 2–3 days when refrigerated, making it perfect to make ahead for gatherings.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
You can lighten this dessert by using low-fat cream cheese, sugar-free pudding, or fresh whipped cream. Adding extra strawberries boosts natural sweetness and fiber. Balanced indulgence allows you to enjoy rich, comforting treats while still embracing nourishment—and this recipe offers that harmony beautifully.