Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful dessert that balances the sweetness of strawberries and the creamy richness of banana pudding! This Half Strawberry Shortcake Half Banana Pudding Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion, be it a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a well-deserved sweet moment during the week. Each slice reveals layers of fluffy vanilla cake, luscious banana pudding, and fresh strawberries, creating a flavorful symphony that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that promises to win the hearts of your family and friends!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Banana Pudding:
- 1 box instant banana pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped topping (thawed)
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
For the Strawberries:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Assembly:
- Whipped topping for decoration
- Additional sliced strawberries and banana slices for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes come out perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Evenly pour the cake batter into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, gently turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the banana pudding. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently until fully combined. Stir in the sliced bananas, and set the mixture aside.
- In another bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Let them macerate for about 10 minutes, turning soft and juicy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, carefully slice each cake in half horizontally, resulting in four luscious layers.
- Start the assembly by placing one layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread half of the banana pudding mixture over it, then add the next layer, repeating this with the remaining pudding.
- Next, add the third layer of cake and generously spread the macerated strawberries over it. Finally, top with the last layer of cake.
- Frost the entire cake with whipped topping and garnish with additional sliced strawberries and banana slices as desired.
- For the best flavor experience, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving, allowing all those lovely flavors to meld together.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping for an extra touch of flavor and creaminess.
- You can also add a layer of crushed vanilla wafers in the banana pudding section for added texture and a classic touch.
- This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cooking Techniques
For this recipe, the key techniques include careful mixing to achieve a light and fluffy cake, as well as gentle folding when working with the whipped topping, which helps maintain its airy texture. Also, allowing the strawberries to macerate enhances their natural sweetness, creating a burst of flavor that complements the rich banana pudding beautifully.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Assemble the cake on the day you’re planning to serve it.
Can I substitute the bananas?
While bananas lend a wonderful flavor to this dessert, you can substitute them with other fruits like peaches or even mixed berries if you desire a different twist!
Conclusion
This Half Strawberry Shortcake Half Banana Pudding Cake is a playful and delicious dessert that truly brings the best of both worlds together. With its light and fluffy layers complemented by the juicy strawberries and creamy banana pudding, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table! So gather your loved ones, slice up this gorgeous cake, and enjoy the sweet moments together. Happy baking!