No-Bake Strawberry Banana Dessert
You can make this cool, fruity, and creamy dessert quickly without using the oven. It became a family favorite during a hot summer week because it comes together so fast.
Equipment
- 8x8 baking pan
- Offset spatula (optional)
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 2 packages Instant vanilla pudding (3.4 ounce size)
- 4 cups Milk (to make the pudding)
For the Layers
- 27 squares Graham crackers
- 3 Large bananas Peeled and sliced thinly
- 1 pint Strawberries Sliced, plus extra for garnish
For Garnish
- As needed Canned whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding according to package directions and set it aside.
- Line an 8x8 baking pan with plastic wrap, letting the wrap extend out over the sides of the pan.
- Put 9 of the graham crackers in a single layer in the pan. Do not worry if they do not totally cover the bottom.
- Spread one-third of the pudding over the graham crackers. An offset spatula works well for this step.
- Put a single layer of sliced strawberries over the custard, then add a layer of sliced banana.
- Add another layer of graham crackers, then pudding, then strawberries, then banana.
- Spread the rest of the pudding on top of the bananas, then top with a final layer of graham crackers.
- Take the extended edges of the plastic wrap and bring them up over the dessert. Lightly press down on the top, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
- When you are ready to serve it, lift the dessert out using the edges of the plastic wrap as handles, and slide it onto a serving plate. Use a large spatula to help move it.
- Spray the top of the dessert with whipped cream, garnish with extra strawberries, and serve it.
Notes
This dessert is best served cold after it has set for several hours. The layers will soften slightly, creating a texture similar to a trifle or shortcake.