Looking for a no-bake dessert that’s rich, fruity, and irresistibly creamy? This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding layers fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, fluffy cheesecake filling, and vanilla pudding into one beautiful and indulgent dish. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or casual gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Dessert

This layered dessert is:

• No-bake and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes

• A crowd-friendly treat that serves a full table

• Creamy, fruity, and perfectly balanced in sweetness

• Made with familiar pantry staples

• Great for making ahead—gets even better after chilling

If you love banana pudding, cheesecake, or strawberry shortcake, this combines the best of all three into one showstopping dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the cheesecake layer:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the pudding layer:

• 1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix

• 2 cups cold milk

For the dessert:

• 1 box vanilla wafers (or similar cookies)

• 2 bananas, sliced

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• Crushed strawberry wafers (optional, for topping)

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

1. Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until light, fluffy, and fully combined.

2. Make the Pudding Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Let it sit for a few minutes to finish setting.

3. Begin Layering

In a large trifle bowl, 9×13 dish, or individual cups, begin with a base layer of vanilla wafers.

4. Add Bananas and Cheesecake Mixture

Place a layer of sliced bananas over the wafers. Spread a layer of the cheesecake mixture on top.

5. Add Pudding and Strawberries

Spoon the vanilla pudding over the cheesecake layer, then sprinkle with chopped strawberries.

6. Repeat Layers

Continue layering in the same order until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of the cheesecake mixture.

7. Garnish and Chill

Top with extra chopped strawberries and crushed strawberry wafers, if desired. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

Ways to Serve This Dessert

• Serve in a clear trifle dish for a beautiful layered look

• Portion into individual dessert cups for parties

• Garnish with whipped cream, mint leaves, or extra cookies

• Pair with coffee or iced tea for a sweet afternoon treat

• Serve chilled as a summer dessert or potluck favorite

Tips & Variations

• Use sliced pound cake or shortbread cookies instead of vanilla wafers for a twist

• Add a layer of strawberry jam or preserves between the cheesecake and fruit for extra berry flavor

• Use banana or cheesecake-flavored pudding if you want to enhance a particular layer

• For added texture, stir crushed cookies into one of the layers before assembling

• Best enjoyed within 2 days to keep the bananas from browning

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Yes. This dessert is perfect for making ahead. In fact, the flavors improve as it chills, and the layers hold together better after several hours in the fridge.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?
Use ripe but firm bananas, and layer them between cream or pudding to shield them from air exposure. A light brush of lemon juice on the slices can also slow browning.

Can I substitute the cream cheese layer with whipped topping?
You can use whipped topping for convenience, but the cream cheese mixture gives it that rich, cheesecake-like taste that balances the sweetness of the pudding.

Do I have to use fresh strawberries?
Fresh strawberries offer the best texture and flavor. Frozen berries can be used, but make sure they’re fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best dish to use for layering?
A clear trifle bowl is ideal for presentation. A 9×13 baking dish or individual serving cups also work well, especially for parties or grab-and-go servings.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is the ultimate no-bake dessert—creamy, fruity, and layered with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, potluck, or weekend treat, it’s a simple yet elegant option that everyone will love. Make it ahead, chill it well, and watch it disappear.