Creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding Dessert

Prepare the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the vanilla instant pudding mix with the cold milk until smooth and thickened. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes to ensure a creamy, lump-free consistency.
Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the prepared pudding using a spatula. Mix until fully combined and smooth, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
Start Layering: In a trifle dish, glass bowl, or 9×13-inch serving dish, arrange a single layer of Nilla wafers on the bottom. This forms the base of the dessert.
Add Fruit and Cream: Top the wafers with a layer of banana slices, followed by a layer of the pudding mixture. Spoon strawberry pie filling or chopped strawberries evenly over the pudding.

Finishing, Chilling & Serving

Repeat the Layers: Continue layering wafers, bananas, pudding, and strawberries until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of pudding.
Top It Off: Arrange extra Nilla wafers on top for decoration, either whole or crushed, depending on your preference.
Chill: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften to the perfect texture.
Serve: Scoop into bowls and serve chilled.