If you love a dessert that’s as playful as it is delicious, Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups are bound to win your heart. These delightful little treats combine all the creamy nostalgia of banana pudding, the tangy richness of cheesecake, and the fresh pop of strawberries—layered beautifully in individual cups for the ultimate no-bake indulgence. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a weeknight dessert craving, you’ll get a taste of summer in every single bite, all without turning on the oven!

Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with just a handful of easily-sourced ingredients. Each element plays a special role, coming together for a flavor-packed dessert you’ll crave again and again.

Graham cracker crumbs: The classic base for cheesecake, lending a sweet, toasty crunch that anchors every layered bite.
Melted butter: Brings the crumbs together, creating that irresistible, buttery crust.
Granulated sugar: Just a touch to sweeten and help bind the crust mixture.
Cream cheese (softened): The creamy, tangy hero of the cheesecake layer—make sure it’s truly soft for the silkiest results.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves smoothly into the cheesecake filling for sweetness without grittiness.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aromatic depth to every spoonful.
Cold heavy cream: Whipped to fluffy peaks, this lightens the cheesecake filling for a dreamy mousse-like texture.
Banana pudding (prepared): Luscious and nostalgic, this brings the beloved flavors of classic banana pudding right into your cup.
Fresh strawberries (chopped): Bursting with color and juicy tartness, they brighten up each layer.
Ripe banana (sliced): Sweet, creamy banana rounds out the fruitiness and ties the whole dessert together.
Whipped cream for topping (optional): A final flourish, making each cup look as festive as it tastes!

How to Make Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups

Step 1: Build the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a spoonful of sugar in a bowl. Mix until everything is evenly moistened and looks like wet sand. Spoon a layer into the bottom of each of your six cups or jars, and press it down to form a firm, tasty foundation for your Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups.

Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Give it a thorough mix—you’re aiming for a texture that’s smooth, light, and fluffy. This silky base is going to make every bite pure cheesecake heaven.

Step 3: Whip and Fold the Heavy Cream

In a clean bowl, pour in that cold heavy cream and whip until you have stiff, cloud-like peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into your cheesecake mixture. This is where the magic happens: the filling becomes moussey and luscious, perfect for spooning into your cups.

Step 4: Layer the Cheesecake Mixture

Pipe or spoon a layer of the cheesecake filling over each graham cracker crust, filling each cup about halfway. Take care to smooth out the tops, so every layer stands out when you dig your spoon in later.

Step 5: Add the Banana Pudding Surprise

Add a generous spoonful of banana pudding right over the cheesecake layer. This luscious surprise infuses the cup with that classic pudding flavor everyone loves—like a childhood treat, all grown up.

Step 6: Top with Strawberries and Bananas

Scatter a layer of freshly chopped strawberries and arrange slices of ripe banana on top of your pudding. Not only does this make the cups look gorgeous and inviting, but it adds a burst of freshness that perfectly balances the creamy layers below. For extra flair, you can toss the banana slices with a squirt of lemon juice to keep them looking sunny and bright.

Step 7: Finish with Whipped Cream and Chill

If you’re feeling a little extra (and why not?), crown each cup with a swirl or dollop of whipped cream. Once assembled, pop the Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups in the fridge for at least two hours. The chilling time lets the flavors meld and the layers firm up to just the right texture.

How to Serve Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups

Garnishes

These cups already look like little works of art, but you can easily take them to the next level with a few thoughtful garnishes. Try a sprig of fresh mint, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel, or an extra shower of graham cracker crumbs. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra berry slices perched on top will make them utterly irresistible!

Side Dishes

Since Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups are a dessert that can stand on their own, you don’t need much alongside them. If you’re serving for a party, though, a platter of light tea cookies, a bowl of fresh fruit, or a sparkling glass of lemonade or rosé can make the whole experience feel even more special and celebratory.

Creative Ways to Present

Individual portions are a fun and festive way to serve Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups. Try layering them in fancy glass tumblers for a dinner party, mason jars for a picnic, or even sturdy plastic cups for a kids’ birthday bash. You can even layer all the ingredients into one big trifle dish for a dramatic family-style dessert—just add extra layers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups (lucky you!), cover them tightly and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days—though the bananas may darken over time, so enjoy sooner for the prettiest presentation.

Freezing

While the cheesecake layer holds up beautifully in the freezer, the fresh bananas and strawberries might lose some of their texture upon thawing. If you’re planning to freeze the cups, assemble everything except the fruit, wrap well, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and top with fresh fruit just before serving.

Reheating

No need to reheat these no-bake treats! Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups are meant to be enjoyed thoroughly chilled. If you’ve frozen the cups, let them gently defrost in the refrigerator before topping and serving for the best creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or dairy-free alternatives?

Absolutely! While full-fat cream cheese delivers classic richness, you can swap in a low-fat or dairy-free alternative for a lighter or vegan version. Just keep in mind the texture may be slightly different but the cups will still be delicious.

Do I have to use prepared banana pudding?

Not at all! Instant banana pudding makes these cheesecake cups super quick, but feel free to use homemade pudding if you have a favorite recipe. Either way, the banana flavor shines through beautifully.

How can I keep the banana slices from turning brown?

To keep your banana slices looking bright and fresh, toss them with a little lemon juice before layering them into the cups. This not only helps with color, but adds a lovely tang that works perfectly in these Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups.

Can I make these cups gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, and make sure your pudding mix and all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. You won’t lose an ounce of flavor or fun.

What’s the best way to transport these for a picnic or party?

Individual jars or plastic cups with lids are perfect for taking Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups on the go. Stack them in a cooler, and add the fresh fruit and whipped cream right before serving for the prettiest presentation.

Final Thoughts

No matter the occasion, Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups are guaranteed to bring big smiles and lasting memories. With their dreamy layers and mix of flavors, these little desserts turn any meal into an event. I hope you’ll give them a try—one spoonful and you’ll see just why they’ve become a new favorite in my kitchen!

Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 11 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 6 cups 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these delightful Banana Strawberry Pudding Cheesecake Cups for a luscious and refreshing dessert experience. Layers of creamy cheesecake, ripe banana, sweet strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust come together perfectly in each individual serving.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cold heavy cream

Additional Layers:

1 cup banana pudding (prepared)
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1 ripe banana, sliced
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press mixture into the bottom of 6 cups or jars.
Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, then fold into cream cheese mixture.
Assembly: Spoon or pipe cheesecake mixture over crusts. Top with banana pudding, strawberries, banana slices, and whipped cream. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.