Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding combines the creamy, rich flavors of cheesecake with the light and fruity freshness of banana pudding. This indulgent dessert layers sweet pudding, fresh fruit, and crunchy cookies to create the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a BBQ, or a holiday celebration, this dessert is sure to impress. Here’s how to make this delightful, layered dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients for the 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
Ingredients for the Layers
- 1 lb strawberries, sliced
- 3–4 bananas, sliced
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies, crushed (or graham cracker crumbs)
Ingredients for the Strawberry Cream Layer
- 1 cup strawberry puree
- 1 cup whipped topping
Instructions
Prepare the Pudding Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens. Add in the sweetened condensed milk and softened cream cheese, and beat until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form, then gently fold it into the pudding mixture.
Make the Strawberry Cream Layer:
In a separate bowl, mix the strawberry puree with whipped topping until fully combined. This will create a light and fluffy strawberry cream layer to complement the other ingredients.
Assemble the Layers:
In a large pan or individual serving containers, begin layering the dessert by adding the pudding mixture first. Then, add a layer of crushed vanilla wafers, followed by slices of banana and strawberries. Continue layering with the strawberry cream, then repeat the layers as desired until all the ingredients are used.
Top and Serve:
Top the dessert with extra sliced strawberries, banana slices, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for a decorative touch. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to set and meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness!
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Chill Before Serving: For the best texture and flavor, make sure to chill the pudding for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the layers to set and gives the flavors time to meld together.
- Individual Servings: Consider serving this dessert in individual containers, like mason jars or small bowls, for a more polished presentation and easier serving at parties or gatherings.
- Garnish for Extra Appeal: Top the pudding with additional slices of fresh strawberries and bananas, or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for a beautiful finishing touch that adds both flavor and texture.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. However, the bananas may soften and brown slightly over time, so it’s best to consume it within a few days.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the pudding and fruit, causing the dessert to become watery upon thawing.
- Banana Freshness: If you plan to store the pudding for longer than a day, consider adding fresh banana slices just before serving to maintain their texture and color. This will prevent the bananas from becoming too soft and discolored in the fridge.
