Description

This Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a luscious layered dessert combining creamy vanilla pudding, tangy cream cheese, fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers. The pudding base is enriched with sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream, then layered with fresh fruit and a strawberry cream topping for an irresistible sweet treat perfect for gatherings or a special indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Base

1 box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 can sweetened condensed milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Fruit and Cookies

1 lb strawberries, sliced
3-4 bananas, sliced
1 box vanilla wafer cookies, crushed (or graham cracker crumbs)

Strawberry Cream Layer

1 cup strawberry puree
1 cup whipped topping

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Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens, indicating the pudding is set.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Cream Cheese: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and softened cream cheese, beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the pudding mixture to add lightness and richness.
Make the Strawberry Cream Layer: Combine the strawberry puree with the whipped topping until fully incorporated to create a fruity, creamy layer.
Assemble the Layers: In a large serving dish or individual cups, create layers starting with the pudding mixture, followed by crushed vanilla wafers, banana slices, and sliced strawberries.
Add Strawberry Cream: Spread a layer of the strawberry cream mixture over the fruit and cookie layers, then repeat these layers as desired to fill the dish.
Top and Garnish: Finish with a generous topping of extra strawberries, bananas, and crushed vanilla wafers for texture and color.
Chill: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set before serving chilled.

Notes

For best results, use fresh, ripe bananas and strawberries.
Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
Substitute vanilla wafers with graham cracker crumbs if preferred.
This dessert can be made in individual serving cups for easy portion control.
Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.