There's nothing quite like the combination of creamy cheesecake, ripe bananas, and sweet strawberries in one luscious dessert. This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is the perfect fusion of two beloved treats, bringing together the richness of cheesecake with the comforting, nostalgic flavors of classic banana pudding.

I first made this recipe for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. The layers of velvety pudding, fresh fruit, and crushed vanilla wafers create an irresistible texture, while the cheesecake layer adds a decadent twist. It's now a must-have dessert for birthdays, holidays, and any occasion that calls for something extra special.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite no-bake dessert. This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is as easy to make as it is delicious.

First off, it's incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a show-stopping dessert that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners.

It's also the ultimate make-ahead treat. Since it needs time to chill, you can prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully by the time you're ready to serve.

Not to mention, it's a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a fan of classic banana pudding, cheesecake, or fresh strawberries, this dessert has something for everyone. Every bite is a balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy perfection.

Finally, it's completely customizable. You can switch up the fruit, adjust the sweetness, or even swap in different cookies to make it your own. This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding lies in its layers of flavor and texture. Let's break down the key ingredients that make this dessert so irresistible.

Cream cheese is what gives this pudding its signature cheesecake flavor. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. Softening it beforehand ensures it blends smoothly into the mixture.

Vanilla pudding mix acts as the base of the dessert, providing a rich, creamy consistency. Instant pudding works best, as it thickens quickly and saves you time in the kitchen.

Sweetened condensed milk enhances the pudding's sweetness and adds a silky smooth texture. It also helps to bind all the elements together for that perfect spoonful.

Bananas and strawberries bring natural sweetness and fresh flavor. Ripe but firm bananas work best to maintain their texture, while juicy, vibrant strawberries add a refreshing contrast.

Vanilla wafers or graham crackers provide that classic crunch and absorb some of the pudding’s moisture, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you prefer a firmer texture, opt for shortbread cookies instead.

How To Make This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Creating this mouthwatering dessert is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for the perfect pudding every time.

Start by preparing the cheesecake layer. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, stirring until fully combined. This step ensures a rich, velvety consistency without lumps.

Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until thickened. Then, fold in the cheesecake mixture, blending gently to maintain the light and airy texture.

Now it's time to assemble the layers. Begin with a base of crushed vanilla wafers in the bottom of your serving dish. Add a layer of banana slices, followed by a layer of the cheesecake pudding mixture. Then, scatter fresh strawberry slices on top.

Repeat these layers until you reach the top of your dish, finishing with a final layer of pudding and a garnish of extra fruit and cookie crumbs for added texture and visual appeal.

Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours, or overnight if possible. This allows all the flavors to meld together and gives the dessert its signature creamy consistency.

Storage Options

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its texture and freshness.

If you're making it ahead of time, consider assembling it in individual jars or cups for easy serving and minimal sogginess. This way, each portion stays intact and delicious.

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pudding and fruit will change when thawed. However, you can prep the cheesecake mixture and store it separately in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the dessert.

To refresh leftovers, give the pudding a gentle stir before serving. This helps to redistribute any moisture that may have settled at the bottom.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to customize it to your taste:

For a chocolate twist, swap out the vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding mix and add a layer of chocolate chips between the fruit layers.

If you prefer a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and swap the sweetened condensed milk for Greek yogurt. This will give you a tangy, protein-packed alternative without sacrificing creaminess.

Try different cookies for added variety. Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate wafer cookies work beautifully in place of vanilla wafers.

Want a tropical spin? Add crushed pineapple and coconut flakes for a refreshing island-inspired take on this classic dessert.

No fresh strawberries? No problem! Frozen strawberries work just as well—just thaw and drain them before layering to prevent excess moisture.

No matter how you make it, this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is sure to become a favorite. Have fun experimenting and enjoy every creamy, fruity bite!