Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dessert experience that will leave your taste buds dancing! This Half Strawberry Shortcake Half Banana Pudding Cake is the perfect symphony of flavors, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas and the freshness of strawberries with a rich, fluffy vanilla cake. Imagine slicing into this beautiful creation, uncovering layers of creamy banana pudding, and vibrant strawberries, all topped with clouds of whipped cream. It’s not just a cake; it’s an invitation to indulge in sweet nostalgia!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your unforgettable dessert:
- 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 tablespoon 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) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the banana pudding. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined and light, then stir in the sliced bananas. Set this delicious mixture aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Allow them to macerate for about 10 minutes to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to slice each cake in half horizontally, creating four layers in total.
- Place the first layer of cake on a serving platter. Top it with half of the banana pudding mixture, smoothing it evenly across the layer.
- Repeat the process with the next layer of cake and the remaining banana pudding mixture.
- Add the third layer of cake and spread the macerated strawberries generously over it, allowing their juices to seep in.
- Finally, place the last layer of cake on top, then frost the entire cake with whipped topping.
- For the finishing touch, garnish the top with additional slices of strawberries and bananas. Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the banana pudding mixture. Additionally, using fresh, in-season strawberries will elevate the freshness of your dessert even more. To make this cake ahead of time, simply layer and frost it on the day before serving!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves basic baking techniques, including whipping and folding. Whipping the cream until light and fluffy is essential for a luscious texture, while folding the whipped topping into the pudding mixture ensures a light, airy result. Layering the cake allows for a gorgeous presentation and a delightful combination of flavors.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite fruits, such as peaches or blueberries, for a tasty twist!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Conclusion
This Half Strawberry Shortcake Half Banana Pudding Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will wow your friends and family. Whether it’s for a birthday, a picnic, or just a rare treat, this cake promises to be the star of the show. Enjoy every slice and create sweet memories!