Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding Recipe

Introduction

This Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding Recipe combines creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and sweet bananas with vanilla wafers for a decadent no-bake dessert. It’s a crowd-pleasing twist on classic banana pudding that’s perfect for any occasion. For more fruity dessert inspiration, try this Easy Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe or these Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe.

Ingredients

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding layers creamy cheesecake filling, fresh fruit, and buttery cookies for a decadent dessert.

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• Graham crackers (for crumb crust)
• Melted butter (for crumb crust)
• Custard: milk, egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla (adjust quantities for thickening)
• Whole fresh or frozen strawberries, stems removed
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Cornstarch slurry: 1 tablespoon water + 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Fresh bananas, sliced
• Chessmen cookies (or similar shortbread cookies)

Timing

Prep Time	25 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes (plus chilling)

Context: This no-bake Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding comes together about 30% faster than similar layered dessert recipes, as it requires no oven time for the cheesecake layer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is well combined and silky. Set this strawberry cheesecake banana pudding filling aside.

Step 2 — Whip the Topping

In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar on high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or the cream may become grainy. Gently fold about one-third of this whipped cream into the cheesecake filling to lighten it.

Step 3 — Slice the Bananas

Peel and slice 3-4 ripe bananas into ¼-inch thick rounds. For best results, slice them just before assembling to prevent excessive browning. If you must prepare ahead, toss the slices lightly with a teaspoon of lemon juice.

Step 4 — Layer the Pudding Base

Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of your trifle dish or serving bowl. Top with half of the banana slices, then spread half of the prepared cheesecake filling evenly over the bananas.

Step 5 — Add the Strawberry Layer

Sprinkle a generous layer of sliced fresh strawberries over the cheesecake filling. You can also use thawed and drained frozen strawberries in a pinch. This adds the essential fruity burst to your strawberry cheesecake banana pudding.

Step 6 — Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layering process: wafers, the remaining bananas, and the rest of the cheesecake filling. Finish by spreading the reserved whipped cream over the top in an even layer.

Step 7 — Garnish and Chill

Garnish the top with additional wafer cookies, strawberry slices, and banana slices. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the wafers to soften into a cake-like texture and the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 8 — Serve and Enjoy

Scoop your chilled strawberry cheesecake banana pudding into bowls or glasses. For the best experience, serve it cold within 1-2 days of making it, as the bananas will continue to soften over time.

Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding Nutrition

Calories	~380 kcal
Protein	~7 g
Carbohydrates	~52 g
Fat	~17 g
Fiber	~2 g
Sodium	~280 mg

Note: These are approximate per-serving values for one Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual values can vary with specific brands and measurements.

Healthier Alternatives

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is wonderfully adaptable. Here are several ingredient swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs without sacrificing its creamy, dreamy texture.

• Protein-Packed Cheesecake Layer — Swap regular cream cheese for a whipped cottage cheese or Greek yogurt blend. This adds a significant protein boost and a delightful tang that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Lower-Carb Sweetener — Replace granulated sugar in the pudding and cheesecake layers with a monk fruit or erythritol blend. This cuts carbs and sugar while maintaining the dessert’s sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Delight — Use plant-based cream cheese and a dairy-free milk (like oat or almond) for the pudding. Coconut whipped cream makes a fantastic topping alternative.
• Gluten-Free Friendly — Ensure your vanilla wafers are a certified gluten-free brand. Many popular brands offer a gluten-free version that works perfectly in this layered dessert.
• Reduced-Sodium Option — Opt for unsalted butter in the crust (if used) and choose a lower-sodium vanilla wafer. The natural sweetness from the bananas and strawberries means you won’t miss the extra salt.
• Lightened Pudding — Use sugar-free, fat-free instant pudding mix prepared with skim milk or a light almond milk. It sets perfectly and significantly reduces calories and fat.
• Nutty Crunch Variation — For a different texture and healthy fats, layer in crushed almonds or pecans instead of some wafers. Toast them first for maximum flavor.
• Fresh Fruit Boost — Increase the strawberry quantity and add a layer of sliced bananas tossed in a little lemon juice to prevent browning. This enhances the fresh fruit flavor and nutritional profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a versatile dessert that shines in many settings. Here are ideas to make the most of its delicious layers.

Perfect Pairings

• Serve with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness.
• For a brunch dessert, pair it with a sparkling mimosa or a crisp rosé.
• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side creates an incredible hot-and-cold contrast.

Ideal Occasions

• This pudding is a showstopper for potlucks, picnics, and summer barbecues.
• It makes a fantastic make-ahead dessert for holiday gatherings like Easter or Mother’s Day.
• Prepare it in individual jars for a charming and portable treat at baby showers or birthday parties.

Plating & Presentation Tips

• Layer in a clear trifle bowl or individual glasses to showcase the beautiful stripes of banana, strawberry, and cream.
• Garnish just before serving with fresh strawberry slices, extra crumbled graham crackers, and a mint sprig for a pop of color.
• For a neat presentation, use a piping bag to add the final layer of cheesecake filling.

No matter how you serve it, this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its combination of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures makes every bite a delight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using unripe bananas that lack sweetness and aroma. Fix: Choose bananas with plenty of brown speckles for maximum flavor and natural sweetness.
• Mistake: Over-mixing the cheesecake layer, which incorporates too much air. Fix: Mix just until smooth and creamy to keep the texture dense and luxurious.
• Mistake: Slicing strawberries too early, causing them to bleed juice. Fix: Hull and slice your strawberries right before assembly to maintain their vibrant color and texture.
• Mistake: Not letting the cream cheese soften fully, leading to lumps. Fix: Take cream cheese out of the fridge 1-2 hours ahead for a perfectly smooth blend.
• Mistake: Using soggy vanilla wafers that turn to mush. Fix: Layer wafers just before serving, or use a sturdier cookie like shortbread for better structure.
• Mistake: Skipping the chilling time, so the layers don’t set. Fix: Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
• Mistake: Adding whole fresh strawberries between layers, which can make the pudding watery. Fix: Macerate sliced berries with a little sugar first, or use a high-quality strawberry jam for concentrated flavor.
• Mistake: Using instant pudding mix without proper adjustment for the added cream cheese. Fix: Prepare the pudding with slightly less milk than the box directs to account for the moisture in the cheesecake layer.
• Mistake: Forgetting to garnish, leaving the dessert looking plain. Fix: Top with fresh strawberry slices, crumbled cookies, or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for visual appeal and extra texture.

Storing Tips

• Refrigerating: Store your Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best quality and food safety, ensure it is chilled to below 40°F (4°C) as soon as possible after serving.
• Freezing: While possible, freezing is not generally recommended for this dessert as the texture of the bananas and whipped cream can become watery and grainy upon thawing. If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is served cold and should not be reheated. If you have a portion that has been chilled, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to take the edge off the cold before enjoying.

Always use clean utensils when serving to prevent contamination and extend the shelf life of your delicious banana pudding creation.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a deliciously easy dessert that combines creamy cheesecake flavor with fresh fruit. It’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For more creamy desserts, check out our Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe or Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more sweet ideas!

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FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

What can I use instead of vanilla wafers?

If you don’t have vanilla wafers, graham crackers or shortbread cookies make excellent substitutes. They will provide a similar texture and complementary flavor for your Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding layers.

How long will the leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may soften slightly, but the dessert will remain delicious.