### Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe
#### Introduction
**Strawberry Banana Pudding** is a delightful twist on the classic banana pudding dessert, adding fresh strawberries for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness. This creamy, no-bake dessert is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. The combination of fresh bananas, strawberries, creamy pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers creates a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make treat that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
#### Ingredients & Quantity
**Ingredients:**
– 1 (5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
– 2 1/2 cups cold milk
– 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional for extra creaminess)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 ripe bananas (sliced)
– 1 pint fresh strawberries (sliced)
– 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies
– Fresh mint for garnish (optional)
#### Tips for Success
1. **Use Ripe Bananas**: For the best flavor, use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas can turn mushy too quickly and don’t hold up well in the pudding.
2. **Chill the Pudding**: Make sure to let the pudding chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
3. **Layering**: When layering, alternate between the pudding mixture, bananas, strawberries, and vanilla wafers for even distribution of flavors throughout the dessert.
4. **Prevent Bananas from Browning**: To help prevent the bananas from browning too quickly, you can toss the banana slices with a little lemon juice before layering them.
5. **Make Ahead**: This dessert can be prepared a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it until ready to serve for the best results.
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Pudding**: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. If using sweetened condensed milk, stir it in along with the vanilla extract for extra creaminess.
2. **Fold in the Whipped Topping**: Gently fold in the whipped topping (Cool Whip) into the pudding mixture until it is smooth and well combined. This will make the pudding light and airy.
3. **Layer the Dessert**: In a 9×13-inch baking dish or trifle dish, start by placing a layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom. Then, layer half of the sliced bananas and strawberries over the cookies. Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the fruit and spread it evenly.
4. **Repeat Layers**: Repeat the process, creating another layer of cookies, the remaining bananas and strawberries, and the rest of the pudding mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula.
5. **Chill**: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours to allow the dessert to set and the flavors to blend together.
6. **Serve**: Before serving, garnish the top with a few additional banana slices, strawberry slices, and a sprig of fresh mint (if desired).
#### Description
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a luscious, creamy dessert that takes the best of both bananas and strawberries, layered with sweet vanilla pudding and crunchy vanilla wafers. The dessert is refreshing and indulgent, with the smoothness of the pudding contrasting beautifully against the soft fruit and crispy cookies. It’s easy to prepare, requires no baking, and is a crowd favorite that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you want a comforting, fruity treat.
#### Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1/8 of recipe)
– **Calories**: 250-300 kcal
– **Fat**: 12g
– **Saturated Fat**: 7g
– **Carbohydrates**: 35g
– **Sugar**: 22g
– **Protein**: 3g
– **Sodium**: 150mg
– **Fiber**: 2g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and the exact portion size.)
#### Conclusion
Strawberry Banana Pudding is a delicious and easy dessert that offers the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and fruitiness. With the classic combination of bananas, strawberries, and vanilla pudding, this treat is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. It’s a great way to elevate the traditional banana pudding and add a fresh, fruity twist.
#### Recommendation
Serve this dessert chilled for the most refreshing experience. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mixture. If you want to make the dessert even richer, you can top it with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a dollop of whipped cream right before serving.