Indulgent. Refreshing. Stunning. This Chocolate Strawberry Banana Trifle 🍫🍓🍌 is the no-bake dessert your party table has been waiting for. Lush layers of fruit, pudding, and whipped cream are topped with chocolate shavings and nuts to create a beautiful, crowd-pleasing treat.
Whether you’re prepping for a summer brunch, romantic dinner, or holiday gathering, this trifle is elegant, easy, and endlessly customizable. Dive in as we explore the full recipe, expert baking tips, nutrition breakdown, and everything you need to know to perfect this masterpiece.
Ingredients
Fruit Base
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional, for tropical flavor)
Cream & Chocolate Layers
- 2 cups chocolate pudding (homemade or instant)
- 2 cups whipped cream (store-bought or fresh)
Toppings
- ½ cup chocolate shavings
- ¼ cup sliced almonds (or your favorite nuts)
Instructions
- Layer the fruit: In a trifle dish or clear bowl, add strawberries, bananas, and pineapple chunks.
- Add cream: Spoon a layer of whipped cream over the fruit, smoothing the top.
- Chocolate goodness: Pour chocolate pudding on top of the cream layer. Spread evenly.
- Repeat: Continue layering fruit, cream, and pudding until the dish is full (typically 2–3 layers).
- Top it off: Finish with a thick layer of whipped cream. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and almonds.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Best served chilled within 24 hours.
Expert Chef Tips 👨🍳
Chef Ina Garten: “Use high-quality chocolate pudding—homemade if you have time. It elevates the whole dessert.”
Bobby Flay: “Toast your almonds lightly before sprinkling for extra crunch and nutty flavor.”
Ree Drummond: “Add a layer of crushed chocolate cookies for even more texture and decadence.”
Gordon Ramsay: “Don’t overdo the layers—three complete layers max or it gets messy when serving.”
Health & Safety Considerations ⚠️
- Fruit freshness: Use ripe, firm bananas to prevent browning. Add a splash of lemon juice to preserve color.
- Dairy safety: Keep whipped cream and pudding refrigerated at all times to prevent spoilage.
- Nut allergies: Substitute almonds with toasted coconut or granola if needed.
- Reduce sugar: Use unsweetened whipped cream and low-sugar pudding to lighten the dessert.
Nutrition & Health Benefits (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal | Balanced treat with fruit, dairy, and chocolate. |
| Fat | 11 g | Mostly from cream and chocolate—satisfying richness. |
| Sugar | 18 g | Natural and added—control with substitutions. |
| Fiber | 2.5 g | From strawberries, bananas, and nuts. |
| Protein | 3.5 g | From cream, pudding, and almonds. |
| Vitamin C | 22 mg | Thanks to fresh fruit, especially strawberries and pineapple. |
| Calcium | 70 mg | From dairy-based layers. |
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
- Can I make this trifle in advance?
Yes, prepare up to 12 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add toppings just before serving for best texture. - Can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based whipped cream, vegan chocolate pudding, and skip or replace dairy ingredients. - What dish should I use?
A glass trifle bowl is best for presentation, but any deep bowl works. - Will the bananas brown?
To prevent browning, toss sliced bananas with a bit of lemon juice before layering. - Can I add cake or brownies?
Yes! Add cubed brownies or pound cake between layers for more decadence. - Can I skip the pineapple?
Absolutely—just a tropical option. You can substitute with mango or kiwi if desired. - How long does it keep?
Best enjoyed within 24 hours. Leftovers can be stored up to 2 days refrigerated. - Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
Yes, it’s a convenient option—just check for added sugars and ingredients. - Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your pudding and toppings are gluten-free certified. - What can I serve this with?
Perfect on its own, or pair with espresso, prosecco, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Related Recipes 🍓🍫
If you love layered desserts, don’t miss our Chocolate Raspberry Parfait or the indulgent Banana Cream Pudding Trifle. Looking for something fruity? Try our Strawberry Shortcake Bowls.
The Chocolate Strawberry Banana Trifle brings together fresh fruit, rich chocolate, and luscious cream in one beautiful dish. Quick to assemble and even quicker to vanish, it’s a dessert that delivers flavor, flair, and satisfaction in every spoonful. 🍫🍓🍌
Now grab your trifle dish—it’s time to layer up some joy!
