Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Description

This dessert is the perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake, classic banana pudding, and fresh strawberries. Layers of sweet vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, luscious cheesecake filling, pudding, and juicy strawberries create a no-bake treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you want a chilled, fruity dessert with a touch of indulgence.

Ingredients For Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

• 2 cups cold milk

• 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or whipped topping)

• 1 box vanilla wafers (or graham crackers for variation)

• 4 ripe bananas, sliced

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare Pudding: In a bowl, whisk together cold milk and vanilla pudding mix. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.

2. Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.

3. Fold In Cream: Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the cheesecake mixture.

4. Layer Dessert:

   • Bottom: Place a layer of vanilla wafers.

   • Add sliced bananas and strawberries.

   • Spread cheesecake-pudding mixture on top.

   • Repeat layers until dish is full, finishing with cream mixture on top.

5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to let flavors blend.

6. Serve: Garnish with crushed wafers and fresh strawberry slices.

Notes

• Best served chilled.

• Use slightly firm bananas to prevent mushiness.

• You can swap vanilla wafers with shortbread cookies or graham crackers.

• Overnight refrigeration gives the best flavor.

Tips

• For extra strawberry flavor, add a layer of strawberry jam between layers.

• Freeze for 30 minutes before serving for a firmer texture.

• Add a touch of lemon juice to sliced bananas to prevent browning.

• Use whipped topping instead of heavy cream for a quicker version.

Servings

• Makes 12 servings (8×12 inch dish or trifle bowl).

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 310

• Protein: 5g

• Carbs: 44g

• Fat: 13g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 30g

Benefits

• Strawberries: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

• Bananas: Great source of potassium and natural sweetness.

• Dairy base: Provides protein and calcium.

• No-bake: Quick, easy, and perfect for summer.

Q&A

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! It tastes better if made the night before.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3 days (bananas may brown slightly).

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid.

Q: Can I make it lighter?
A: Use low-fat cream cheese, light condensed milk, and reduced-fat whipped topping.