Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding – creamy banana layers with cheesecake flavor and fresh strawberries

· Reserved whipped topping
· Crushed Nilla Wafers
· Sliced strawberries for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Cheesecake Pudding Base: In a large bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it is completely smooth and lump-free. This is a crucial step for a silky texture.
2. Combine with Milks: To the cream cheese, gradually add the cold milk and sweetened condensed milk, beating on low speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Incorporate Pudding Mix: Sprinkle the entire box of instant cheesecake pudding mix over the milk and cream cheese mixture. Immediately beat on low speed for 2-3 minutes until it thickens significantly. It will be very thick.
4. Fold in Whipped Topping: Take about 3/4 of the container of whipped topping (reserve the rest for the top) and gently fold it into the pudding mixture using a spatula until no white streaks remain. The mixture will become light and fluffy.
5. Prepare the Fruits: Slice the bananas and strawberries. If desired, toss the banana slices gently with a tablespoon of lemon juice to help keep them from browning, though the pudding will cover them well.
6. Assemble the Pudding: In a large trifle dish or a 9×13 inch baking dish, create the following layers:
   · First Layer: Cover the bottom of the dish with a single layer of Nilla Wafers.
   · Second Layer: Arrange a single layer of banana slices and strawberry slices over the wafers.
   · Third Layer: Spread one-third of the cheesecake pudding mixture evenly over the fruit.
   · Repeat: Repeat the layers two more times—wafers, fruit, pudding.
   · Final Touch: For the top layer, you can end with pudding or create a decorative pattern. I recommend spreading the reserved whipped topping over the final pudding layer.
7. Chill and Garnish: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is highly recommended. This allows the cookies to soften into a cake-like texture and the flavors to meld perfectly.
8. Serve: Just before serving, garnish with crushed Nilla Wafers, fresh strawberry slices, or any remaining strawberry halves. Scoop and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Pudding