There’s nothing quite like the creamy, dreamy combination of strawberry cheesecake and banana pudding. This no-bake dessert layers silky cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and classic vanilla wafers for a flavor-packed treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

I first made this recipe for a summer potluck, and it disappeared within minutes. The combination of sweet bananas, tart strawberries, and velvety cheesecake makes it irresistible. Now, it’s a go-to favorite whenever I need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Get ready to fall in love with this easy, no-bake dessert that delivers big on flavor and texture.

First, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and no oven required, it’s a stress-free option for any occasion.

The layers of creamy cheesecake pudding, sweet bananas, and juicy strawberries create the perfect balance of flavors. Every bite is a mix of smooth, crunchy, and fruity goodness.

It’s also a visually stunning dessert. The vibrant layers of red strawberries, golden wafers, and creamy filling make it a showstopper for parties, holidays, or special gatherings.

Best of all, this dessert is super versatile. You can make it ahead of time, customize it with different fruits, or even serve it in individual cups for a fun twist.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients.

Cream cheese is the heart of the cheesecake layer. It adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pudding and fruit. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.

Vanilla pudding mix provides the base for the luscious filling. Opt for instant pudding for quick preparation, and mix it with cold milk to achieve the perfect consistency.

Fresh strawberries bring a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color. Slice them thinly for even layering, and choose ripe, juicy berries for the best flavor.

Bananas add a naturally creamy texture and mild sweetness. Use slightly firm bananas to prevent them from turning too mushy in the pudding layers.

Vanilla wafers act as the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy filling. They soften over time, absorbing the flavors and creating that classic banana pudding texture.

How To Make This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Making this dessert is as easy as layering the right ingredients in the right order. Here’s how to do it.

Start by preparing the pudding. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Let it sit for a few minutes to set while you prepare the other ingredients.

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the prepared pudding, mixing until fully combined. This creates the creamy cheesecake base for the dessert.

Now, it’s time to layer. Begin by spreading a thin layer of the cheesecake mixture at the bottom of a serving dish. Add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by sliced bananas and strawberries. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of cheesecake mixture.

For a decorative touch, arrange a few extra strawberry slices and whole vanilla wafers on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.

Once chilled, serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent finish. The creamy, fruity layers will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Storage Options

This dessert stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Keep leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The wafers will continue to soften over time, making each bite even more flavorful.

If you need to make this dessert ahead, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance for the best texture. Just be sure to add the bananas close to serving time to prevent them from browning.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the pudding and cream cheese mixture can separate when thawed, affecting the overall texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative with different ingredients and flavors.

Swap the vanilla pudding for cheesecake-flavored pudding mix for an even more intense cheesecake experience. It adds a deeper, richer taste that complements the fruit perfectly.

For a fun twist, use graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers. This gives the dessert an even more authentic cheesecake flavor with a subtle crunch.

If you’re looking to lighten things up, substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese. It adds a bit of tang and extra protein while keeping the filling creamy and delicious.

Try adding a drizzle of strawberry sauce or caramel between the layers for an extra flavor boost. This small addition takes the dessert to a whole new level of indulgence.

For a tropical twist, mix in some pineapple chunks or coconut flakes. The combination of banana, strawberry, and coconut gives the pudding a summery, refreshing vibe.

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a party or just treating yourself to something sweet, its layers of flavor and texture make every bite unforgettable.