Intro
Hi, I am Dulcia. This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is my take on a classic banana vanilla trifle, layered with vanilla wafers, fresh fruit, and a creamy pudding-cream cheese filling. It is a no-bake crowd pleaser that is easy to assemble and perfect for potlucks or family dinners.
I will walk you through simple steps, ingredient notes, and tips so you can make it with confidence.
Origins
Trifles are British in origin, traditionally layered with cake, custard, fruit, and whipped cream. This version is an Americanized, no-bake pudding trifle that uses vanilla wafers and cream cheese for a rich, tangy finish. For more on the trifle tradition, see the Wikipedia entry on trifle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trifle.
I drew inspiration from quick American dessert staples, and I often lean on reliable pantry items to keep this recipe approachable.
Ingredients
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 container strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping
I recommend ripe but firm bananas so they hold their shape. You can use fresh or thawed frozen strawberries depending on season.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the French Vanilla pudding and milk to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- In a large serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
- Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the pudding mixture on top.
- Spread the whipped topping over the final layer and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Banana Vanilla Trifle
- Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Description
Layered trifle with vanilla wafers, bananas, strawberries, French vanilla pudding, cream cheese mixture and whipped topping.
Ingredients
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 container strawberries
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add the French Vanilla pudding and milk to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- In a large serving dish, layer the vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
- Pour half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and wafers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with the pudding mixture on top.
- Spread the whipped topping over the final layer and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
Tips
- Chill well: Refrigerating for at least 4 hours gives the wafers time to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Texture balance: If you prefer firmer pudding, reduce the milk by 1/4 cup. For a lighter filling, fold a bit of whipped topping into the pudding mixture.
- Make ahead: This dessert keeps well, up to 24 hours refrigerated, but for best banana appearance, add banana slices shortly before serving.
- Ingredient swaps: You can use instant pudding of any vanilla variety, or substitute mascarpone for cream cheese for a different richness.
For tips on working with cream cheese in no-bake desserts, see my notes on Philadelphia cheesecake filling: https://www.dulciarecipes.com/philadelphia-cheesecake-filling/.
Variations
- Strawberry-free: Make a pure banana trifle by omitting strawberries and adding an extra layer of bananas.
- Berry mix: Swap strawberries for mixed berries for a brighter tartness.
- Crunchy twist: Add a layer of chopped nuts between layers for texture.
- Mini serves: Build the trifle in individual glasses for parties.
If you enjoy rich, bakery-style twists, try pairing this dessert concept with a cinnamon roll cheesecake idea for special occasions: https://www.dulciarecipes.com/cinnamon-roll-cheesecake/.
FAQ
Q: Can I use homemade pudding?
A: Yes, homemade custard works. Keep proportions similar, adjust thickness so it is scoopable but not runny.
Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The wafers will continue to soften over time.
Q: Can I freeze this dessert?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the fruit and cream changes on thawing.
For general produce safety and storage guidance, visit the USDA: https://www.usda.gov.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream is an easy, comforting dessert that brings bright fruit and creamy richness together. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. If you try it, leave a comment on the site and tell me how you layered yours.