Ingredients:
For the Banana Pudding Layer:
3 cups whole milk
1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ripe bananas, sliced
½ cup heavy cream, whipped (for extra fluffiness)
For the Strawberry Cheesecake Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (plus extra for garnish)
1 cup crushed graham crackers (for a cheesecake-like crust effect)
For Assembly:
Vanilla wafer cookies (for layering)
Sliced fresh strawberries (for garnish)
Banana slices (for garnish)
Extra graham cracker crumbs (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer
Make the pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until well combined. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
Add the cream cheese and condensed milk: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Combine the pudding with the cheesecake mixture: Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until smooth. Add the whipped heavy cream and carefully fold it in to make the mixture light and airy.
Add bananas: Gently fold in the banana slices, but leave some aside for garnish later.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Layer
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Mix the cream cheese: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and fresh strawberries and blend until the strawberries are incorporated into the cream cheese.
Fold in the whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the strawberry-cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
Layer the ingredients: In a large serving dish or individual trifle glasses, begin with a layer of vanilla wafer cookies. Then, spoon a layer of banana pudding mixture on top. Add a layer of strawberry cheesecake mixture and spread it evenly.
Repeat layers: Continue layering the vanilla wafer cookies, banana pudding, and strawberry cheesecake mixtures until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of the strawberry cheesecake mixture.
Add toppings: Garnish the top with fresh strawberries, banana slices, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake-inspired finish.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Chill: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the dessert firm up.
Serve: Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness of this strawberry cheesecake banana pudding!
Serving Tips:
Make-ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. Letting it chill overnight allows the flavors to develop and ensures the pudding layers set beautifully.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
