Strawberry Banana Delight

The Strawberry Banana Delight is a classic dessert that harks back to simpler times. Popular in the 70s and 80s, this treat combines the refreshing flavors of strawberries and bananas in a delightful and easy-to-make no-bake recipe. It’s perfect for summer days or whenever you crave a taste of nostalgia. This dessert is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with vibrant jelly cubes and a creamy layer that makes it a standout at any gathering. Let’s dive into the details of this retro dessert and rediscover why it became a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients divided into three main components: the Strawberry Jelly, the Banana Base, and the Cream Layer. Here’s what you’ll need:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Jelly Cubes

The first step in making this dessert is to prepare the strawberry jelly cubes, which add a vibrant and fruity layer to the dish.

Dissolve the Jelly Powder: In a large bowl, combine 2 packets of strawberry jelly powder with 250 ml of hot water. Stir well until the powder is completely dissolved. This process ensures that the jelly sets properly and has a smooth texture.

Add Cold Water: Next, pour in 250 ml of cold water to the mixture. This helps cool down the jelly mixture quickly, speeding up the setting process. Stir thoroughly to ensure the mixture is well combined.

Set the Jelly: Lightly grease a large dish with a small amount of vegetable oil, using a paper towel to spread it evenly. This step prevents the jelly from sticking to the dish, making it easier to remove later. Pour the jelly mixture into the dish and refrigerate for at least two hours, or until fully set.

Cut the Jelly: Once the jelly has set, use a knife to cut it into cubes. Gently release the cubes from the bottom of the dish using a spatula. Set the jelly cubes aside for later use.

Step 2: Make the Banana Base

The banana base provides a sweet and creamy foundation for the dessert. It’s simple to make and adds a natural sweetness to the dish.

Mash the Bananas: Start by peeling the bananas and slicing them into rounds. Place the slices in a large bowl and mash them thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until smooth. The bananas should be ripe to ensure they mash easily and provide a rich flavor.

Prepare the Biscuit Crumbs: Place 300 grams of cornstarch biscuits in a food processor and blend until they turn into fine crumbs. The biscuit crumbs add a delightful crunch and help bind the banana mixture together.

Combine Ingredients: Mix the biscuit crumbs with the mashed bananas until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and dough-like. If it’s too thick to stir with a spoon, you can use your hands to knead it into the desired consistency.

Shape the Balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Coat each ball in grated coconut or cocoa powder, depending on your preference. For an extra touch of sweetness and festivity, you can also roll them in chocolate sprinkles.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Layer

The cream layer is the final touch that ties the dessert together, offering a creamy and smooth contrast to the fruity and crunchy layers below.

Dissolve the Jelly Powder: In a medium bowl, add 2 packets of strawberry jelly powder and pour in 100 ml of hot water. Stir until the powder is completely dissolved. This step ensures that the cream layer will set properly and have a uniform texture.

Add Cold Water and Cream: Pour in 150 ml of cold water and add 400 grams of light cream to the dissolved jelly mixture. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. The cream adds a rich and luscious texture to the dessert.

Combine with Jelly Cubes: In a 20 cm diameter ring cake tin, arrange the strawberry jelly cubes that were prepared earlier. Pour the cream mixture over the jelly cubes, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Set the Dessert: Refrigerate the cake tin for another two hours to allow the cream layer to set. This step is crucial to achieve the perfect texture and to ensure the layers hold together when serving.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Unmold the Dessert: Once the dessert has set, carefully remove it from the cake tin. You may need to gently run a knife around the edges to help release it. The result should be a beautifully layered dessert with vibrant jelly cubes suspended in a creamy base.

Present Your Dish: Slice into the dessert and serve it on a platter. You can add toppings such as fresh strawberries, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance both the presentation and flavor.

Enjoy the Nostalgia: This Strawberry Banana Delight is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delicious treat that brings back memories of simpler times. Share it with family and friends and relish the nostalgic flavors of the 70s and 80s. It’s a perfect way to celebrate any occasion or simply enjoy a sweet moment of indulgence.