Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert Recipe
If you’re in the hunt for a dreamy, crowd-pleasing treat, look no further than this Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert. Imagine layers of silky whipped cream, luscious vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and sweet bananas nestled over a bed of buttery graham cracker crust. This no-bake favorite is a nod to classic American comfort, and it always gets rave reviews at every summer potluck, holiday table, or family gathering. If you love fruit-forward desserts that are as simple as they are stunning, this may quickly become your go-to indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
For the pudding:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
For the cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the layers:
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust or 8 crushed graham crackers with 3 tablespoons melted butter (pressed into an 8×8-inch dish)
- Optional: extra sliced fruit and whipped cream for topping
How to Make Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and combining the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk. Whisk everything together for about two minutes, until the mixture thickens. This step is all about creating a smooth and velvety pudding base that holds the layers together while letting each flavor shine through.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, pour in your heavy whipping cream, then add powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer (or a balloon whisk, if you’re feeling energetic!) and beat until soft peaks form. This dreamy whipped cream is what gives the Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert its signature airy lightness and rich taste.
Step 3: Combine Pudding and Cream
Now for the magic—gently fold the whipped cream into the prepared vanilla pudding. Take your time and use a spatula, turning the bowl as you go, to get a filling that’s smooth, fluffy, and downright irresistible. This isn’t just mixing; it’s the start of true dessert harmony.
Step 4: Make the Crust
If you’re going with a homemade crust, stir together crushed graham crackers and melted butter, then press this mixture firmly into the base of an 8×8-inch dish. Press down evenly using the bottom of a glass or your fingers. If you’re using a ready-made crust, simply lay it out and get ready to build your Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert masterpiece!
Step 5: Start Layering
Spoon half the pudding-cream mixture over the graham cracker crust. Smooth it with a spatula so you have an even layer. Add a generous layer of banana slices, then cover them with a layer of strawberries. Repeat this whole process with the remaining filling and fruit, creating two gorgeous, fruit-packed layers in your dish.
Step 6: Chill and Top
Patience makes perfection. Pop your assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least two hours—this sets the layers and lets the flavors meld. When you’re ready to serve, crown it with swirls of whipped cream and a scattering of extra fruit to really make those colors and flavors pop.
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra sliced strawberries and bananas is classic, but don’t stop there. Try chocolate shavings, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a handful of crushed graham crackers for an extra-special Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert presentation. The more color and contrast you add, the more irresistible your dessert will look on the table.
Side Dishes
This beauty pairs well with lighter sides, since it’s already a bit indulgent. Serve it alongside a fruit salad, lemon sorbet, or a tall glass of iced tea to keep things refreshing. If you’re leaning into a full dessert spread, pair with little chocolate squares or crisp vanilla wafers for a fun, dippable treat.
Creative Ways to Present
You don’t have to stick with a big square dish! For parties, try layering Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert in mason jars, parfait glasses, or pretty teacups for cute, individual servings. Mini trifle bowls make each layer pop and turn a simple dessert into something truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any remaining Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert tightly with plastic wrap or a snug-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making those second-helpings even more enticing!
Freezing
While you certainly can freeze this dessert, keep in mind that bananas may darken and the texture of the whipped cream can change. If you do freeze, wrap portions in individual airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before eating for the best consistency.
Reheating
This sweet treat is best served chilled, so there’s no need for reheating. If it’s been in the freezer, just let it thaw in the fridge, then serve cold for maximum freshness and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a flavored pudding mix instead of vanilla?
Absolutely! While vanilla pudding is classic for Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert, feel free to swap in white chocolate or banana pudding for a fun twist. Just remember, the flavor profile will shift a bit, so pair with fruits that complement the chosen pudding.
How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?
The best trick is to lightly toss sliced bananas in a little lemon juice before adding them to the layers. This helps preserve their color and keeps your dessert beautiful and appetizing even after chilling.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert is perfect for prepping the night before. Cover and chill it overnight, then garnish just before serving for the freshest look and taste.
What can I use if I don’t have a graham cracker crust?
No graham crackers? Use crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even digestive biscuits mixed with butter. Each brings its own unique flavor and crunch to your dessert base.
Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?
Definitely! Use dairy-free whipped topping and plant-based milk for the pudding mix, and opt for vegan butter and cookies for the crust. You’ll still get all the creamy, fruity goodness without any dairy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a bright, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s just as easy to make as it is to love, give this Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert a try. Every bite bursts with creamy layers and fresh fruit flavor, making it the sort of recipe you’ll want to share with everyone you know. Enjoy every spoonful!
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Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful union of fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and creamy vanilla goodness with this luscious Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert. A no-bake treat that’s perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to impress with its layers of fruity sweetness and velvety smoothness.
Ingredients
For the pudding:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
For the cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the layers:
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust or 8 crushed graham crackers with 3 tablespoons melted butter (pressed into an 8×8-inch dish)
- Optional: extra sliced fruit and whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Make the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the prepared pudding until smooth and fluffy.
- Layer the dessert: If using a homemade crust, press the graham cracker and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. Layer half of the pudding mixture over the crust. Add a layer of banana slices, followed by a layer of strawberry slices. Repeat the layers with the remaining pudding, bananas, and strawberries.
- Chill and serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with extra whipped cream and fruit if desired.
Notes
- To prevent bananas from browning, lightly toss them in lemon juice before layering.
- For a lighter version, use whipped topping instead of fresh cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
