Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Recipe – A Sweet & Creamy Delight!
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad is for you! Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home, this no-bake dessert salad combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with fresh, juicy fruits. The best part? It takes just 15 minutes to whip up!
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for a foolproof recipe, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – No baking required, just mix and serve!
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients based on your preference.
- Kid-Friendly – A fun way to enjoy fruit with a creamy twist.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dessert:
- 3.4 ounces of cheesecake pudding dry mix
- 1 cup of milk
- 12 ounces of strawberry yogurt
- 8 ounces of whipped cream (Cool Whip)
- 2 pounds of fresh strawberries (washed and halved)
- 6 large bananas (peeled and sliced)
Optional Garnishes:
- Crushed graham crackers
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh mint leaves
- Extra whipped cream
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you begin, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls (one small, one large)
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Serving dish or bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and cheesecake pudding mix until smooth and lump-free.
- Add in the strawberry yogurt and continue whisking until fully incorporated.
- Using a spatula, fold in the whipped topping until you achieve a light and creamy consistency.
- Cover and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Prepare the Fruit
- While the cheesecake dressing is chilling, wash and halve the strawberries.
- Peel and slice the bananas into bite-sized pieces.
- Place both fruits in a large mixing bowl.
3. Combine Everything
- Gently pour the chilled cheesecake dressing over the fruit.
- Stir lightly until all pieces are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the bananas as you mix.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve immediately for a soft, creamy texture or chill for an additional 30 minutes for a firmer consistency.
- Garnish with extra fruit or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for added texture.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Avoid Browning: To prevent bananas from browning, add a splash of lemon juice before mixing.
- Do Not Freeze: This salad does not freeze well due to its creamy consistency.
Variations & Recipe Swaps
- Fruit Swaps – Try using blueberries, raspberries, or peaches instead of strawberries and bananas.
- Yogurt Variations – Vanilla, Greek, or coconut yogurt can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk, dairy-free pudding mix, and whipped coconut cream.
- Add Crunch – Crushed nuts, granola, or toasted coconut flakes make great additions.
Perfect Pairings
Pair this cheesecake salad with:
- Iced Coffee or Cold Brew – The bitterness complements the sweetness.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea – A refreshing contrast.
- Vanilla Wafers or Shortbread Cookies – Perfect for dipping!
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! However, for best results, prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until serving.
2. How do I prevent bananas from turning brown?
Toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
3. Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Use 1 cup of homemade whipped cream in place of store-bought Cool Whip.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure the cheesecake pudding mix is gluten-free.
5. What if I don’t have cheesecake pudding mix?
You can substitute it with vanilla pudding mix and add ½ teaspoon of cream cheese extract.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that will quickly become a favorite. Whether you serve it at a summer cookout or enjoy it as a quick weeknight treat, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!
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