🍓 Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant cheesecake pudding mix (or vanilla if unavailable)
• 1½ cups cold milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

For the Layers:

• 1 box vanilla wafers (or graham crackers)
• 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Optional Garnish:

• Crushed vanilla wafers or graham crumbs
• Extra strawberries or banana slices
• A drizzle of strawberry sauce

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🥄 Instructions

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with a mixer until smooth and fluffy.
   • Add sweetened condensed milk, and mix until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
   • Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
   • Add vanilla extract, then gently fold in whipped topping until creamy and smooth.
2. Layer the Dessert:
   In a 9×13-inch dish (or trifle bowl):
   • Layer 1: Spread a thin layer of the cheesecake pudding mixture on the bottom.
   • Layer 2: Add a layer of vanilla wafers.
   • Layer 3: Arrange banana slices and strawberries on top.
   • Layer 4: Spoon more cheesecake filling over the fruit.
   • Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheesecake filling on top.
3. Chill:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors blend and the wafers soften.
4. Serve:
   Before serving, top with extra fruit, a sprinkle of cookie crumbs, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for a bakery-style finish. 🍓

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💡 Tips

• Want it richer? Add a swirl of strawberry jam between layers.
• Use homemade whipped cream for a lighter flavor.
• Make it in individual cups or jars for parties or meal prep.