No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry Cheesecake–Style Banana Pudding is a rich, creamy layered dessert that combines smooth cheesecake filling, classic banana pudding, fresh strawberries, and a buttery cookie crust. This no-bake treat is sweet, refreshing, and perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you crave a beautiful, indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

Crust Layer

• 1½ cups crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
• 4 tablespoons melted butter

Cheesecake Pudding Layer

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
• 1½ cups cold milk

Fruit Layer

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Topping

• Crushed cookies or graham cracker crumbs
• Extra strawberry slices and banana slices (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust:
   Mix crushed cookies with melted butter until crumbly. Spoon into the bottom of dessert cups and press lightly.
2. Make the pudding base:
   Whisk instant pudding mix with cold milk until thick. Refrigerate for 5 minutes.
3. Prepare cheesecake cream:
   Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In another bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
4. Combine cheesecake and pudding:
   Gently fold the prepared pudding into the cheesecake mixture until smooth and fluffy.
5. Assemble the layers:
   Add a layer of cheesecake pudding over the crust. Top with banana slices and strawberries. Repeat layers until cups are full.
6. Add topping:
   Sprinkle crushed cookies on top and garnish with fruit.
7. Chill before serving:
   Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to set and enhance flavor.

Tips for Best Results

• Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness
• Toss banana slices with a little lemon juice to prevent browning
• Chill overnight for best flavor and texture
• Use homemade strawberry puree for extra strawberry flavor
• Serve in clear cups to show off beautiful layers

FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made 4–24 hours in advance.

2. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, but let it cool completely before layering.

3. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

4. Can I freeze Strawberry Banana Pudding?
Not recommended — freezing affects texture.

5. Can I make it without cream cheese?
Yes, substitute with whipped cream or mascarpone.

6. What cookies work best for the crust?
Vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or golden Oreos.