Description
This creamy and fruity no-bake dessert combines layers of smooth vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries and bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for potlucks, family gatherings, or any time you want a sweet and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
For the Pudding Layers:
- 1 (5.1 oz) box of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub of whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Fruit and Assembly:
- 2–3 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies (or graham crackers)
Instructions
Prepare the Pudding Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Fold in the whipped topping, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
Assemble the Layers
In a large trifle dish, glass bowl, or individual serving cups, spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture on the bottom.
Add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
Top the fruit with another layer of the pudding mixture.
Repeat the layers (wafers, bananas, strawberries, pudding) until the dish is full, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
Garnish and Chill
For a decorative touch, top with whole strawberries and crushed vanilla wafers.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
Notes
- To prevent the bananas from browning, lightly toss them in a little lemon or orange juice before layering.
- Graham crackers can be used instead of vanilla wafers for a slightly different texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for the best texture.