Strawberry Cheesecake Banana PuddingStrawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or hand whisk. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and mix 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, creating a fluffy, cheesecake-like texture. Set aside.
2. Make the Banana Pudding Layer:
   • In a large mixing bowl, prepare the vanilla pudding mix according to the package instructions, using the 2 cups of milk. Whisk until the pudding thickens and becomes smooth. Add vanilla extract and granulated sugar (if using), and stir to combine. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
   • Slice the fresh strawberries and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar and gently stir. Let the strawberries sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the sugar to draw out the juices and create a natural syrup. If you prefer your strawberries less sweet, you can skip this step.
4. Assemble the Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding:
   • Start by placing a layer of vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom of a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses.
   • Add a layer of the banana pudding mixture over the cookies, smoothing it out with a spatula.
   • Layer the sliced bananas over the pudding, followed by a generous layer of the cheesecake mixture, spreading it evenly.
   • Add another layer of vanilla wafer cookies, followed by another layer of banana pudding, bananas, and cheesecake. Repeat the layers until you’ve used all your ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheesecake mixture on top.
   • Add the macerated strawberries on top of the final cheesecake layer for a beautiful, fruity finish.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the pudding for at least 2-3 hours (overnight is even better) to allow the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set.
   • Before serving, you can top with freshly whipped cream and additional fresh strawberries for extra flair.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding:

• Layering: For a beautiful presentation, try layering the ingredients in a clear trifle dish or individual cups so you can see the different layers of this decadent dessert.
• Banana Tip: To keep the bananas from browning, slice them just before assembling the pudding or toss them in a little lemon juice to preserve their color.
• Flavor Variations: For an added twist, try mixing in some crushed graham crackers or even adding a layer of chocolate pudding for an even richer dessert.
• Whipped Cream: While optional, a light, fluffy whipped cream topping can make this dessert feel even more luxurious. You can also use Cool Whip if you’re short on time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding takes the classic banana pudding we all know and love and elevates it with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake and the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing, with layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

The combination of creamy cheesecake, smooth banana pudding, sweet strawberries, and crunchy vanilla wafers makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, and you can make it ahead of time, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

So, whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner, a potluck, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, this Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!