Introduction
If you want a holiday dessert that looks festive, tastes nostalgic, and takes almost no effort, this Christmas
Strawberry Banana Pudding is the one. It’s creamy, fluffy, and layered with sweet strawberries, ripe bananas, and
vanilla cookies that soften into cake-like goodness after a chill. Add a few Christmas touches—red strawberries,
snowy whipped topping, crushed cookies, and a sprinkle of holiday magic—and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that
disappears fast.
This is the perfect dessert for busy December days because you can make it ahead, chill it overnight, and serve it
straight from the fridge. Whether you build it in a big trifle bowl for a wow-factor centerpiece or portion it into
individual cups for parties, this recipe is pure holiday comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Creamy Pudding Layer
- 1 (5.1 oz / 144 g) box instant vanilla pudding mix (or white chocolate pudding)
- 2 cups (480 ml) cold milk
- 1 (14 oz / 397 g) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 tsp banana extract (for stronger banana flavor)
For the Whipped “Cloud” Texture
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2–3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened (adds a cheesecake-style richness)
For Layering
- 3–4 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
- 2–3 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafers (Nilla) or shortbread cookies
Christmas Garnishes (Optional but Festive)
- Crushed vanilla wafers or cookie crumbs (“snow”)
- Mini marshmallows
- White chocolate shavings
- Crushed candy canes (use lightly—strong flavor)
- Red & green sprinkles
- Fresh mint leaves (for a holly look)
