Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake layer:
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the pudding layer:
1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
For the dessert:
1 box vanilla wafers (or other cookies of choice)
2 bananas, sliced
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Crushed strawberry wafers (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the cheesecake layer:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined. Set aside.
Prepare the pudding layer:
In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
Set aside to allow it to firm up a bit.
Assemble the pudding:
In a serving dish or individual serving cups, layer the vanilla wafers at the bottom.
Add a layer of banana slices and fresh chopped strawberries over the cookies.
Spread a layer of the cheesecake mixture on top of the fruit.
Add a layer of vanilla pudding, smoothing it over the cheesecake layer.
Repeat the layers as needed, alternating between the fruit, cheesecake, and pudding.
Top and chill:
Garnish with more fresh strawberries and crushed strawberry wafers on top for texture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up.