Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this salad comes together in minutes with fresh fruit and a luscious cream cheese mixture. It’s cool, refreshing, and indulgent all at once. It tastes like strawberry banana cheesecake but requires no baking or crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser and looks beautiful on any table.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cream cheese
instant cheesecake pudding mix (dry)
vanilla or plain Greek yogurt
cool whip or whipped topping
fresh strawberries (sliced)
bananas (sliced)
optional: mini marshmallows or crushed graham crackers for extra texture
directions
-
I beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
-
I add the dry cheesecake pudding mix and Greek yogurt, mixing until everything is well blended.
-
I gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
-
I slice the strawberries and bananas and fold them into the cheesecake mixture.
-
I serve it immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving for a firmer texture.
-
If I want to add more fun, I sometimes mix in mini marshmallows or sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8–10 servings. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately or after chilling for 1–2 hours.
Variations
I sometimes swap the strawberries and bananas for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or pineapple chunks. For a tangier twist, I use sour cream instead of yogurt. If I want extra texture, I fold in granola or chopped nuts just before serving. A drizzle of strawberry syrup or chocolate sauce over the top makes it even more dessert-like.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I don’t freeze this salad because the texture of the cream and fruit changes. If the mixture separates a bit, I gently stir it before serving. I don’t reheat this dish—it’s best served cold.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, I usually prepare the cheesecake mixture ahead of time and fold in the fruit just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Will the bananas turn brown?
Yes, eventually they will. To help prevent that, I sometimes toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before mixing them in.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely. I whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form and fold it in just like Cool Whip.
Is there a way to make this lower in sugar?
I use sugar-free pudding mix and plain Greek yogurt, and I reduce the whipped topping if I want to make it lighter.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes, I often add mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or even a handful of chocolate chips to make it more fun and flavorful.
Conclusion
Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad is one of my favorite no-bake desserts. It’s easy, creamy, and full of fresh fruit flavor. Whether I’m taking it to a summer gathering or making it just for myself, it always satisfies my cheesecake cravings in the most refreshing way.
Print
Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad
- Total Time: 15–30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This fluffy fruit salad blends strawberries, bananas, and creamy cheesecake filling—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a no-bake summer dessert.
Ingredients
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 (3.4 oz) box instant cheesecake pudding mix (dry)
1 cup vanilla or plain Greek yogurt
1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip or whipped topping
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 large bananas, sliced
Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows
Optional: ½ cup crushed graham crackers or granola (for topping)
Instructions
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the dry cheesecake pudding mix and Greek yogurt; mix until fully combined.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Slice the strawberries and bananas and fold them into the cheesecake mixture.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow the salad to firm up.
Optional: Fold in mini marshmallows or sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top just before serving.
Notes
Toss banana slices in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Substitute other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or pineapple for variation.
Use fresh whipped cream in place of Cool Whip if desired.
For a tangier taste, replace Greek yogurt with sour cream.
Add-ins like granola, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts can enhance flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Salad
- Method: No-Bake, Mix
- Cuisine: American
