Description
A light and refreshing Strawberry Banana Pudding featuring layers of reduced-fat cinnamon graham crackers, sugar-free vanilla pudding, fresh banana and strawberries, and reduced-fat whipped topping. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for a healthy treat that can be prepared ahead and served chilled.
Ingredients
Cracker Layer
- 9 whole reduced-fat cinnamon graham crackers
Pudding
- 1-3/4 cups cold fat-free milk
- 1 package (1 ounce) sugar-free instant cheesecake or vanilla pudding mix
Fruit
- 1 large firm banana, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries, divided
Topping
- 2-1/2 cups reduced-fat whipped topping, divided
- Mint sprigs, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line the bottom of a 9-inch square pan with 4-1/2 graham crackers, creating the base layer for the pudding.
- Create the pudding: In a small bowl, whisk together the cold fat-free milk and sugar-free instant cheesecake or vanilla pudding mix for about two minutes until thoroughly combined. Let the pudding stand for approximately two minutes to soften and thicken.
- Add in the fruit: Place the banana slices in a separate small bowl and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Gently fold the banana slices and 1 cup of the sliced strawberries into the set pudding mixture. Then, carefully fold in 1-3/4 cups of the reduced-fat whipped topping to create a creamy fruit pudding blend.
- Build the pudding: Spread half of the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer in the pan. Add another layer of graham crackers on top, followed by the remaining pudding mixture spread evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pudding overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set. Keep the remaining berries and whipped topping refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Serve: Just before serving, top the chilled pudding with the remaining sliced strawberries and whipped topping. Garnish with mint sprigs if desired for an appealing and fresh finish.
Notes
- Ensure the banana is firm to prevent it from becoming mushy when layered in the pudding.
- Lemon juice on banana slices helps prevent discoloration and maintains a fresh appearance.
- Allowing the pudding to refrigerate overnight improves flavor melding and texture consistency.
- Alternative pudding flavors such as sugar-free cheesecake or vanilla can be used according to preference.
- This recipe is easily doubled or halved depending on serving needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
