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- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced - 2 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced - 1 cup vanilla pudding mix - 2 cups whole milk - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup heavy whipping cream - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar - 1 cup crushed graham crackers - Fresh mint leaves for garnish The ingredients you need for Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream are simple and fresh. First, the fresh produce includes strawberries and bananas, which give a sweet and fruity flavor. You want to use ripe fruits for the best taste. For the pudding base, you’ll need vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and a splash of vanilla extract. This mix creates a creamy and smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the fruit. Next, for the whipped cream topping, have heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar on hand. Whipping the cream adds lightness. It also gives a sweet touch to the dessert. Finally, the crunchy element is the crushed graham crackers. They add a nice texture and a bit of crunch. You can use fresh mint leaves to garnish. They add color and a refreshing taste. These ingredients come together to make a light and dreamy dessert. You can feel good about serving this to your family and friends. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Combine 1 cup vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups whole milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl. - Whisk until the mixture is smooth. Let it rest for 5 minutes. This step helps the pudding thicken well. - In a separate bowl, pour 1 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar. - Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This means it holds shape well. - Fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Use a spatula to be gentle. - In a clear dish, start with a layer of 1 cup crushed graham crackers. - Spoon a layer of the pudding mixture on top. - Add a layer of sliced strawberries and bananas. Make sure to spread them evenly. - Repeat the layers until you use all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of whipped cream on top. - Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This helps the flavors blend. - Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves and some fruit slices on top. This adds color and freshness to your dessert. To make smooth pudding, whisk the mixture well. Use a strong, steady motion. This helps break up any lumps. After mixing, let the pudding sit for about five minutes. Resting helps it thicken just right. You want it creamy but not too runny. Whipped cream is ready when stiff peaks form. You can check this by lifting the whisk. If peaks hold their shape, you’re good to go! When folding the whipped cream into the pudding, use a spatula. Gently lift and turn the mixture. This keeps the cream light and fluffy. For even layering, start with crushed graham crackers. Press them down lightly in your dish. Next, spoon in the pudding, followed by fruit. Make sure to distribute strawberries and bananas evenly. Using clear dishes shows off those lovely layers. It makes the dessert look tasty and fun! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest strawberries and bananas to enhance the flavor of your pudding. Fresh fruit not only tastes better but also adds a vibrant color to your dish. Chill Before Serving: Allow the pudding to chill for at least 2 hours. This resting period is crucial for the flavors to meld and the texture to set, ensuring a delightful eating experience. Layering Technique: When layering, ensure that each fruit layer is evenly distributed to create a beautiful presentation. This will make each scoop visually appealing and enjoyable. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Consider adding crushed nuts or chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor contrast to your pudding. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of your pudding. Try adding chocolate pudding mix for a fun twist. It pairs well with the fruits. You can also use different extracts, like almond or coconut. This adds depth to the taste. Just remember to keep the balance right. If you want to switch up the fruits, go for it! Use other berries like blueberries or raspberries. They add color and taste. You can also try tropical fruits like mango or kiwi. These fruits give a fresh vibe and a bit of zing. You can make this dessert healthier too. Use low-fat pudding and cream options if you prefer. This keeps the flavor while cutting calories. If you want a vegan version, swap the dairy with plant-based milk and cream. Almond or coconut milk works well here. Just ensure your pudding mix is dairy-free. Store your Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream in the fridge. It lasts about 3 days. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. This helps keep it fresh and prevents odors from seeping in. Yes, you can freeze Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream! To freeze, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top. This allows for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Avoid refreezing, as it may change the texture. Yes, you can make this dessert ahead of time. I recommend preparing it up to one day before serving. This gives the dessert time to chill and the flavors to blend well. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. You can use instant pudding mix if you like. The main difference is that instant pudding sets quickly. It might not be as creamy as cooked pudding, but it will still taste great. Just follow the package instructions for mixing with milk. If you want a different base, try using vanilla wafers or crushed cookies. You can even use oat biscuits or shortbread. Each option adds its own flavor to the layers, so pick what you like best! Yes, you can make a non-dairy version! Use almond milk or coconut milk for the pudding. For the whipped cream, try coconut cream whipped until fluffy. These swaps keep the dessert tasty and light without dairy. This dessert combines fresh fruit, creamy pudding, and whipped cream. You layer strawberries, bananas, and crushed graham crackers for a tasty treat. Remember, you can customize flavors and fruits to suit your taste. Follow the tips for perfect texture and presentation. Store it well for later enjoyment. Making this dessert brings joy and sweetness to any occasion. Enjoy the fun of creating and sharing this delicious dish!

Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream

A delightful layered dessert featuring fresh strawberries, bananas, and creamy pudding.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 cup crushed graham crackers
  • to taste fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Allow the pudding to rest for approximately 5 minutes for optimal consistency.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream along with the powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture using a spatula.
  • In a clear serving dish or individual dessert cups, begin assembling your layers: start with a layer of crushed graham crackers, then spoon in a layer of the creamy pudding mixture. Top this with a layer of sliced strawberries and bananas.
  • Continue to repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
  • Cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  • Just before serving, garnish your dessert with fresh mint leaves and extra slices of strawberries or bananas.

Notes

Serve in clear glass dishes to highlight the layers.
Keyword banana, dessert, pudding, strawberry