Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Mix together everything except the bananas, cover, and refrigerate. Add banana slices just before serving to keep them fresh and avoid browning.

What if I can’t find cheesecake pudding mix?

No problem. Vanilla or white chocolate instant pudding mix are great substitutes and offer a delicious creamy texture, even if the flavor is a little different.

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Fresh is best for texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain very well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the salad runny.

How do I stop the bananas from turning brown?

Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before folding into the salad. This slows oxidation and keeps them looking fresh and appetizing.

Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Salad Recipe

Name: Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package cream cheese, softened; 16 oz vanilla yogurt; 1 (8 oz) tub cool whip, thawed; 1 (3.5 oz) package cheesecake flavor instant pudding or pie filling mix; 1/2 bag miniature marshmallows; 3 pints strawberries, sliced; 4 bananas, sliced; 1 container raspberries, optional (for garnish or mixing in)

Imagine the classic flavors of a luscious cheesecake, but in salad form, and with the irresistible combination of strawberries and bananas. That’s exactly what this Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Salad delivers—creamy, dreamy, and brimming with fruity goodness. In just 15 minutes, you can have a dish that’s as perfect on a rushed weeknight as it is on your weekend brunch table. This quick, no-fuss recipe means there’s no need for ovens, water baths, or even waiting around. Each bite promises a creamy, fluffy, sweet escape with cool fruit and a hint of tang, making it simply irresistible for anyone with a sweet tooth or a love for easy comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

15-Minute Magic: When time is of the essence, this salad is your best friend. Everything gets mixed in a single bowl, so cleanup is a breeze.
Cheesecake Lovers, Rejoice: Get all the richness of cheesecake (thank you, cream cheese and pudding!) without the effort of making one.
Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Take this to potlucks, picnics, or even serve as a weeknight dessert—a guaranteed hit with all ages.
No-Cook Simplicity: Absolutely no baking or cooking. Just prep your fruit and blend everything together.
Customizable: Want to use up those extra berries or try something new? This recipe is made for experimenting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a look at what goes into this creamy Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Salad, plus some helpful notes:

Cream Cheese: The secret to that signature cheesecake flavor and ultra-smooth, creamy texture.
Tip: Soften before mixing for easy blending.
Vanilla Yogurt: Helps lighten things up and adds a gentle tang while keeping everything incredibly creamy.
Cool Whip: Brings in extra fluffiness and a touch of sweet, light texture that balances the dense cream cheese.
Cheesecake Instant Pudding Mix: Packs in loads of cheesecake flavor instantly and thickens the salad to perfection.
Mini Marshmallows: Add soft, sweet bites throughout for fun contrast in texture and a little nostalgia.
Strawberries: Sliced fresh strawberries lend juicy sweetness and beautiful color; always use ripe berries if you can!
Bananas: Creamy, sweet banana slices complement the berries so well, offering natural sweetness and softness.
Raspberries (Optional): For extra berry punch and bright color—add at the end so they don’t break apart.

Note: If you want to garnish, save a handful of fruit until the end for a picture-perfect finish!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Love to make a recipe your own? Here are some tried-and-true twists:

Mixed Berry Medley: Add blueberries or blackberries for more fruit variety.
Tropical Swap: Replace some bananas with diced pineapple or mango for a summery spin.
Nut Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or pecans for crunch—just add right before serving.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cream cheese, coconut yogurt, and whipped topping to transform it into a vegan-friendly treat.
Pudding Choices: If cheesecake pudding isn’t available, use vanilla or white chocolate instant pudding for a different but equally creamy flavor.

How to Make Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Salad

You’ll be amazed at how fast this delicious salad comes together. Here’s a quick rundown:

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Mixture

Grab a large mixing bowl.
Blend the softened cream cheese, vanilla yogurt, cheesecake-flavored pudding mix, and thawed Cool Whip together. Mix until the blend is creamy and smooth—no lumps!

Step 2: Add the Marshmallows

Pour in the miniature marshmallows. Gently fold them in so they’re evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.

Step 3: Fold in the Fruit

Carefully fold in the sliced strawberries and bananas (and raspberries, if using). Use a spatula and avoid overmixing to keep the fruit intact and the salad fluffy.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top with extra sliced fruit for an eye-catching finish. Serve immediately or chill for a few minutes—either way, it’s pure bliss!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Soften the Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese can be hard to blend. Let it come to room temperature, or microwave it in short bursts to soften.
Banana Timing: Slice bananas last, just before folding in, so they don’t brown prematurely. If making ahead, toss banana slices lightly with lemon juice to slow browning.
Gently Fold: Be gentle when mixing in the fruit to keep the salad light, fluffy, and visually appealing.
Printable Perfection: Want to serve at a party? Layer the salad in a trifle dish or individual cups for an extra-special presentation.

How to Serve

This Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Salad is absolutely versatile! Here are some serving ideas:

Dessert Powerhouse: Serve chilled in bowls or parfait glasses topped with extra berries.
Brunch Favorite: Pairs fantastically with waffles or pancakes—just spoon a dollop on top.
Party Pleaser: Bring as a sweet side to potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings.
Kid-Approved Snack: Offer smaller portions as a healthier, fun treat for kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, but is best enjoyed the same day due to the bananas.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the fruit and cream mix won’t hold up well when thawed.

Reheating

No need to reheat! Just give leftovers a gentle stir and enjoy straight from the fridge. If any liquid separates, stir gently to recombine.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Mix together everything except the bananas, cover, and refrigerate. Add banana slices just before serving to keep them fresh and avoid browning.
What if I can’t find cheesecake pudding mix?

No problem. Vanilla or white chocolate instant pudding mix are great substitutes and offer a delicious creamy texture, even if the flavor is a little different.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Fresh is best for texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain very well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the salad runny.
How do I stop the bananas from turning brown?

Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before folding into the salad. This slows oxidation and keeps them looking fresh and appetizing.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Salad truly brings together the best of creamy, fluffy, and fruity desserts—with barely any effort. It’s tailor-made for busy weeknights, lazy mornings, or any time a sweet craving hits. No oven, no fuss—just pure deliciousness in every bite. Don’t hesitate—gather those simple ingredients and treat yourself (or your loved ones) to this crowd-pleasing favorite!