Name: Strawberry Banana Cream Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust (9-inch); 2 medium bananas, sliced; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 1/2 cups cold milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Optional: additional strawberries and bananas for garnish

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Strawberry Banana Cream Pie is a luscious, no-bake dessert that blends layers of fresh strawberries and bananas with creamy pudding and whipped topping in a buttery graham cracker crust. This delightful pie is light, fruity, and refreshingly cool—perfect for spring and summer gatherings or any occasion where you crave a sweet and creamy treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie combines the classic flavors of strawberries and bananas with a smooth cream filling and a crisp crust. It’s easy to make, requires minimal baking (or none at all), and can be prepared in advance. The layers are visually stunning, and the flavor is universally loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging yourself, this dessert is always a winner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Cold milk
Bananas
Strawberries
Whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
Cream cheese (optional, for added richness)
Powdered sugar (optional)
Strawberry syrup or sauce (optional for drizzling)

Directions

In a large bowl, prepare the vanilla pudding using cold milk according to package instructions. Chill until set.
If using cream cheese, beat it with a little powdered sugar until smooth and fold into the pudding for extra creaminess.
Slice bananas and strawberries thinly.
Spread a thin layer of pudding mixture on the bottom of the graham cracker crust.
Layer banana slices evenly over the pudding.
Add a layer of sliced strawberries.
Spread the remaining pudding over the fruit layers.
Top generously with whipped topping, spreading it evenly.
Garnish with more fresh fruit and drizzle with strawberry syrup if desired.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Servings and timing

Serves 8 and takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 4 hours of chilling time.

Variations

Use chocolate pudding for a richer flavor twist.
Add a layer of crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers between the pudding and fruit.
Use a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham crackers.
Make a low-sugar version with sugar-free pudding and whipped topping.
Add a layer of sliced kiwi or blueberries for a more colorful and fruity pie.

storage/reheating

Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze, as the fruit and cream layers may become watery or separated upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding?

Yes, homemade pudding works beautifully if you prefer a fully from-scratch dessert.

Can I freeze the pie?

Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh fruit and cream, which may not thaw well.

Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely. Homemade whipped cream adds a fresh, airy touch.

How do I keep bananas from browning?

Brush banana slices with a bit of lemon juice before layering to reduce browning.

Is the pie gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free graham cracker crust to make the pie suitable for gluten-free diets.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can omit it entirely or replace it with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter alternative.

How far ahead can I make this?

You can prepare the pie up to 24 hours in advance, but for best presentation, garnish just before serving.

Can I use frozen fruit?

Fresh fruit is preferred, but thawed and well-drained frozen fruit can be used in a pinch.

Is baking required?

No, this is a no-bake pie if you’re using a store-bought crust.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts make a great crunchy topping.

Conclusion

Strawberry Banana Cream Pie is a light, refreshing dessert that blends fruity sweetness with creamy comfort in every bite. Quick to assemble and perfect for any celebration, this pie will become a favorite at your table all year round.

Strawberry Banana Cream Pie

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Strawberry Banana Cream Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert with layers of fresh bananas and strawberries, rich vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped cream in a buttery graham cracker crust.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 8 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk the pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Refrigerate for 5 minutes.
In another bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form to make whipped cream.
Layer banana slices evenly on the bottom of the graham cracker crust.
Spread half of the pudding over the bananas.
Layer strawberry slices on top of the pudding, then spread the remaining pudding over the strawberries.
Top the pie with whipped cream, spreading evenly to cover.
Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Garnish with additional strawberries and banana slices if desired.