Description
A creamy and delightful Strawberry Banana Pudding layered with vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and strawberries, combined with a smooth French vanilla pudding and cream cheese mixture. Perfectly chilled to create a deliciously refreshing dessert that serves 12.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6–8 bananas, sliced
- 1 container strawberries, chopped
Pudding Mixture
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding mix
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or equal amount sweetened whipped cream)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line a 13×9-inch dish with one box of Vanilla Wafers, spreading them evenly to form the base layer.
- Layer Bananas: Spread the sliced bananas evenly over the vanilla wafers to create the next layer.
- Make the Pudding Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of milk with the French Vanilla pudding mix. Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and thickened, setting the base for the creamy dessert.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, creating a light and fluffy texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Mix the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture into the pudding mixture thoroughly until smooth and uniform in consistency.
- Assemble the Pudding: Pour the combined pudding mixture evenly over the banana and wafer base layer in the dish.
- Add Strawberries: Sprinkle the chopped strawberries evenly on top of the pudding layer for fresh flavor and color.
- Top with Vanilla Wafers: Add the second box of Vanilla Wafers as the final top layer, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy layers below.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for 2–3 hours until it sets properly. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Thaw whipped topping completely before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Optionally garnish with fresh mint leaves for extra color and aroma.
