This Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining layers of moist cake, rich vanilla pudding, and fresh fruits for a refreshing and indulgent treat.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both beginner and seasoned bakers. The cake layer is soft and fluffy, while the creamy vanilla pudding topping adds a smooth, velvety texture that complements the vibrant strawberries and bananas.
A layer of whipped cream brings it all together, creating a light and luscious finish. Best of all, it requires no baking after the cake is made, making it a simple yet impressive dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet indulgence at home.
With a little time in the fridge, this dessert is a showstopper!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake
This recipe is an irresistible fusion of moist banana cake layers, fresh strawberries, and luscious vanilla pudding. It’s like a traditional banana pudding, but in the form of a cake that is sure to wow everyone.
Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this cake offers a refreshing fruity twist with an extra creamy layer of pudding, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion.
✔ Deliciously Moist: The banana cake layers are tender, moist, and packed with natural banana flavor.
✔ Fresh Strawberries: Sweet strawberries are scattered throughout the cake, offering a burst of freshness.
✔ Creamy Pudding: A rich, homemade vanilla pudding filling that elevates the taste of the cake.
✔ Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
How To Prepare Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake?
Recipe Details
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (depends on the portion size)
- Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Knife and cutting board for slicing fruits
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (or any preferred cake mix)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
- 4 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven
Preheat oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box (typically around 350°F/175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the cake mix:
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with 3 large eggs, following the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for the time indicated on the cake mix box (about 25-30 minutes). Check with a toothpick to ensure it’s cooked through. Let the cake cool in the dish.
3. Make the pudding:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mixes, 4 cups cold milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Whisk until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth texture.
4. Assemble the cake:
Once the cake has cooled, slice the bananas and strawberries. Spread a layer of pudding over the cooled cake, then add sliced bananas and strawberries on top.
5. Top with whipped cream:
Spread a layer of whipped cream or whipped topping over the fruit, and optionally garnish with more fruit slices on top.
5. Serve:
Chill the cake in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for the best texture. Cut into squares and enjoy!
How To Serve Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake
To serve your Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake, slice it into generous pieces and place them on dessert plates.
For an extra touch, garnish with whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and banana rounds on top. The cake is best enjoyed chilled, making it a refreshing treat for warm weather.
It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate dessert experience.
Tips For The Best Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake
- Use Ripe Bananas: Make sure the bananas are ripe to ensure maximum flavor and moisture for the cake.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will give the cake a juicy burst of flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh ones will always be the best.
- Chill the Cake: Allowing the cake to chill in the refrigerator enhances the flavors and makes it even more refreshing.
- Optional Add-ins: You can add a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers in between the layers for a true banana pudding experience.
Why Put Pudding Mix In Cake?
Adding pudding mix to a cake batter makes the cake extra moist, soft, and tender. The pudding powder helps retain moisture during baking, resulting in a rich, flavorful texture.
It also enhances the overall taste with a subtle creamy flavor, elevating the cake’s taste and making it more indulgent.
How Is A Pudding Cake Different From A Regular Cake?
A pudding cake differs from a regular cake because it has a creamy, pudding-like texture beneath the cake’s surface.
While regular cakes are typically light and airy, pudding cakes feature a denser, moist consistency, often with a layer of soft custard or pudding that forms during baking, creating a unique contrast of textures.
What Will Thicken Banana Pudding?
To thicken banana pudding, ingredients like cornstarch or flour are commonly used. These starches help create a smooth, custard-like consistency as the mixture cooks.
Eggs also play a role in thickening the pudding by coagulating when heated, contributing to its creamy texture.
How To Store Leftovers
To store leftover Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. The cake will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
If you prefer, you can also store individual slices in airtight containers for easy access. Just be sure to keep it chilled to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
For the best results, enjoy the leftovers within a few days for optimal freshness.
FAQs about Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! You can substitute the yellow cake mix with any flavor of your choice, such as vanilla, angel food, or even chocolate, depending on your preference.
How long does the cake need to chill?
For the best results, let the cake chill for at least 2-3 hours in the refrigerator. You can also leave it overnight to allow the flavors to fully meld.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries and bananas are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen fruit as a substitute, though the texture might be a bit different.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert is great for prepping ahead. Prepare it the day before, refrigerate it, and it will be ready to serve when you need it.
Can I substitute the whipped cream?
If you prefer, you can use whipped topping or homemade whipped cream as a substitute. Both work well as a creamy, light topping for the cake.
More Delicious Strawberry Cake Recipes
Strawberry Cake Recipes With Mix And Cream Cheese
Matcha Strawberry Cake Recipe | Japanese-Inspired
Strawberry Icebox Cake – No-Bake
Homemade Strawberry Bundt Cake Recipe
Strawberry Vegan Cake Recipe || Healthy
Conclusion
I can confidently say that this Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake is a crowd-pleaser that will make any gathering extra special.
It’s a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and sweetness. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare for a weekday treat but elegant enough for special occasions.
Enjoying it with family at home or serving it at a party, this cake is sure to leave everyone coming back for seconds.
I hope you give this recipe a try! Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments, and feel free to share any tweaks you made to suit your taste!
Strawberry Banana Pudding Cake
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Knife and cutting board for slicing fruits
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix or any preferred cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 2 boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix 3.4 oz each
- 4 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced
- 2 ripe bananas sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
Instructions
Preheat oven
- Preheat oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box (typically around 350°F/175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
Prepare the cake mix:
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with 3 large eggs, following the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for the time indicated on the cake mix box (about 25-30 minutes). Check with a toothpick to ensure it’s cooked through. Let the cake cool in the dish.
Make the pudding:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mixes, 4 cups cold milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Whisk until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth texture.
Assemble the cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, slice the bananas and strawberries. Spread a layer of pudding over the cooled cake, then add sliced bananas and strawberries on top.
Top with whipped cream:
- Spread a layer of whipped cream or whipped topping over the fruit, and optionally garnish with more fruit slices on top.
Serve:
- Chill the cake in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for the best texture. Cut into squares and enjoy!