There's nothing quite like the combination of fresh strawberries, rich cheesecake, and classic banana pudding all in one delicious dessert. This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is the ultimate no-bake treat, layering luscious pudding, sweet banana slices, and creamy cheesecake filling with a burst of strawberry flavor in every bite.

I first made this dessert for a summer potluck, and it was an instant hit. The blend of tangy cheesecake, fruity sweetness, and crunchy vanilla wafers made it a crowd-pleaser. Since then, it has become a go-to recipe for family gatherings and special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Get ready to fall in love with this indulgent yet simple dessert. This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is packed with irresistible flavors and textures.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. Since it's a no-bake recipe, you can whip it up without turning on the oven—perfect for warm weather or busy days when you need a quick dessert.

It's also a beautiful showstopper. The vibrant red strawberries, golden banana slices, and creamy cheesecake layers make this pudding as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Plus, it's a great make-ahead dessert. The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills, making it even better the next day.

Whether you're hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, this pudding is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each bringing a unique texture and flavor to the dish.

Cream cheese is the key to that rich, tangy cheesecake layer. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Soften it at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly into the pudding mixture.

Instant vanilla pudding mix creates the perfect creamy base. Using instant pudding instead of cook-and-serve ensures a quick and easy preparation while still delivering that classic pudding texture.

Fresh strawberries and bananas add natural sweetness and bright flavor. For the best results, choose ripe but firm bananas and sweet, juicy strawberries. Slicing the fruit just before layering helps prevent browning.

Sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping give the pudding its luxurious texture. The condensed milk enhances the sweetness and creaminess, while the whipped topping keeps the layers light and airy.

Lastly, vanilla wafers provide the perfect crunch and classic banana pudding flavor. As they soak in the pudding, they soften slightly, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How To Make This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Creating this dreamy dessert is simple and fun! Here’s how to put it all together.

Start by preparing the cheesecake layer. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, add the sweetened condensed milk and instant vanilla pudding mix. Gradually mix in cold milk and continue beating until smooth and thickened. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a light and fluffy texture.

Next, slice the strawberries and bananas. To keep the bananas from browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice. This step ensures your dessert looks fresh and appetizing even after chilling.

Now, it's time to assemble the layers. In a large serving dish or trifle bowl, start with a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of banana slices, then strawberries. Spread a generous portion of the cheesecake pudding mixture over the fruit. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.

For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra strawberries and vanilla wafers. You can also pipe extra whipped topping on top for an extra touch of elegance.

Cover and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to blend together beautifully and gives the wafers time to soften slightly, creating a perfect texture.

Storage Options

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later.

To store in the refrigerator, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions into airtight containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though the bananas may soften over time.

For best presentation, add fresh banana slices right before serving to maintain their bright color and texture.

Unfortunately, this pudding does not freeze well due to the dairy content and fresh fruit. Freezing can cause the texture to become watery and unappealing upon thawing.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are some delicious ways to switch things up!

Try different cookies. Instead of vanilla wafers, experiment with graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even Golden Oreos for a fun twist.

Use flavored pudding. Swap the vanilla pudding for banana or cheesecake-flavored pudding mix to intensify the flavors in the dessert.

Make it extra chocolatey. Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce between layers, or sprinkle in mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-strawberry-banana combination.

Go dairy-free. Use dairy-free whipped topping and a plant-based milk alternative to make a lactose-free version of this dessert.

However you choose to make it, this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more!