Name: Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1 (3.4 oz) package instant cheesecake pudding mix; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup milk (or as needed); 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 3 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows (optional); 1 tsp vanilla extract; Juice of 1/2 lemon (to toss with bananas)

A creamy and fruity dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the refreshing taste of strawberries and bananas, this Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad is my go-to treat for warm-weather gatherings, casual potlucks, or those days when I just want something sweet without baking. It’s quick, indulgent, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

1 (3.4 oz) package instant cheesecake pudding mix

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt

1/2 cup milk (or as needed)

1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

3 ripe bananas, sliced

1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows (optional)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Juice of 1/2 lemon (to toss with bananas)

Directions

I start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.

Then I add the powdered sugar, pudding mix, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

Next, I gradually stir in the Greek yogurt and milk, adjusting the milk to reach a smooth, creamy texture.

In a separate bowl, I toss the sliced bananas with lemon juice to keep them from browning.

Then I gently fold the strawberries, bananas, and optional marshmallows into the cheesecake mixture.

I let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so all the flavors blend together.

Finally, I serve it cold—and it’s always a hit.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

Make it lighter: I sometimes use low-fat cream cheese and nonfat Greek yogurt to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.

Try different fruits: I’ve swapped in blueberries, raspberries, or even chunks of mango when strawberries aren’t in season.

Add crunch: A sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or granola on top just before serving gives a nice cheesecake-like crust effect.

Go nutty: Chopped pecans or walnuts add great texture and a touch of richness.

Dairy-free option: With dairy-free cream cheese, almond milk, and coconut yogurt, this recipe becomes totally plant-based.

Storage/Reheating

I always aim to enjoy this salad the same day I make it, especially because bananas tend to brown quickly. If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. After that, the texture starts to break down and the fruit becomes too soft. I don’t recommend freezing or reheating it, since it’s best served cold and fresh.

FAQs

How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

I toss the banana slices in lemon juice right after slicing them. This keeps them looking fresh and vibrant in the salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I usually prepare it a couple of hours in advance, but not much more than that. The longer it sits, the more likely the fruit will release moisture and soften too much.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the pudding mix used is certified gluten-free, the whole salad is naturally gluten-free.

What can I use instead of cheesecake pudding mix?

If I can’t find cheesecake pudding mix, I use vanilla pudding and add a splash of lemon juice or a little extra vanilla to mimic the tang of cheesecake flavor.

Can I skip the marshmallows?

Absolutely. While I like the sweet, pillowy texture they add, this salad is still delicious without them.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad is one of those quick desserts I keep coming back to. It’s creamy, fruity, and has that nostalgic sweetness that reminds me of summer picnics and potlucks. Whether I’m making it for a party or just treating myself at home, it never disappoints. And the best part? It takes almost no time at all to make.

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