Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert

Introduction

Whenever my family craves something sweet and refreshing, this Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert is always a top contender. The combination of ripe strawberries and bananas layered with a luscious cream filling creates a delightful treat that pleases everyone. From summer picnics to holiday gatherings, this dessert has become a staple in our household. The creamy texture, complemented by the crunchy vanilla wafers, brings a perfect balance of flavors that is simply irresistible. I can’t count how many compliments I’ve received for this dish, and it’s so easy to make! Let’s dive into the details of this delectable dessert.

Ingredients

• For the dessert:
• 1 cup strawberry pie filling
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 box of vanilla wafers (or graham crackers)
• For the cream filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the topping:
• 1/2 cup crumbled graham crackers or cookie crumbs

Instructions

1. Prepare the cream filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
2. Assemble the dessert: In a 9×13 inch dish, layer half of the vanilla wafers on the bottom. Arrange half of the banana slices over the wafers, then spread half of the cream filling over the bananas. Spoon half of the strawberry pie filling over the cream layer. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients: wafers, bananas, cream filling, and strawberry pie filling.
3. Add the toppings: Top the dessert with the sliced strawberries and sprinkle crumbled graham crackers or cookie crumbs on top for added crunch.
4. Chill and serve: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy your delightful Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories: 280 per serving
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve chilled, directly from the refrigerator.
• Use a spatula to cut into squares for easy serving.
• Garnish with extra fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added flair.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Offer with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.

Additional Tips

1. Use ripe fruits: The riper the bananas and strawberries, the sweeter and more flavorful your dessert will be.
2. Chill well: Allow the dessert to chill long enough for the flavors to meld; overnight chilling works wonders!
3. Customize your layers: Feel free to mix in some other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
4. Make it gluten-free: Substitute vanilla wafers with gluten-free cookies or graham crackers.
5. Add a crunch: Include chopped nuts in the layers for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Berry Delight: Swap out strawberries for mixed berries or use a combination of different pie fillings.
• Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate pudding between the cream and fruit layers for a chocolate banana split effect.
• Nutty Banana Cream: Incorporate crushed nuts or peanut butter into the cream filling for an extra nutty flavor.
• Coconut Cream: Mix in shredded coconut with the cream filling for a tropical twist.
• Seasonal Fruit: Use seasonal fruits such as peaches or nectarines for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at family gatherings, barbecues, or potlucks.
• Ideal for birthday parties or special occasions.
• Perfect as a light dessert after a heavy meal.
• Great for picnics—just pack in a portable container.
• A fantastic choice for brunch or afternoon tea.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this dessert, as the bananas and cream filling can alter in texture once thawed. However, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for a quick treat later.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other fruits?

• Yes! Feel free to use any of your favorite fruits like blueberries, peaches, or raspberries.

1. Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

• You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

• Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance for convenience.

1. How do I prevent bananas from browning?

• Toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering to help prevent browning.

1. What can I use instead of powdered sugar?

• You can blend granulated sugar in a food processor until fine as a substitute.

1. Can I use light cream cheese?

• Yes, using light cream cheese can reduce the calories, but it may alter the texture slightly.

1. Is this dessert gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or graham crackers to make it gluten-free.

1. How long can I keep this dessert in the fridge?

• It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

1. Can I add chocolate to this dessert?

• Definitely! Adding chocolate syrup or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor.

1. What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
   • Serve chilled with a garnish of fresh fruit or whipped cream for an elegant touch.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Banana Cream Dessert is a delightful treat that brings together the freshness of fruit with a creamy, dreamy filling. It’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, this dessert will surely impress. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in layers of flavor that everyone will love! Enjoy every delicious bite!

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