Strawberry Banana Pudding
A delightful layered dessert combining sweet strawberries, ripe bananas, and creamy pudding, perfect for gatherings and family reunions.
Ingredients
Pudding Base
- 2 boxes Instant pudding mix (3.4 ounces each, Vanilla or French Vanilla) Provides a creamy base.
- 2 cups Cold milk (whole, oat, or almond) For whisking with pudding mix.
- 14 ounces Sweetened condensed milk Adds sweetness and creaminess.
- 8 ounces Cream cheese (softened) Gives smoothness to the mixture.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- 8 ounces Cool Whip Adds fluffiness to the pudding.
Layering Ingredients
- 2 boxes Vanilla wafers Creates a crispy base.
- 2 Ripe bananas (optional) Adds natural sweetness.
- 1 box Chessman cookies (optional) Adds buttery goodness.
- 16 ounces Fresh strawberries Brings a burst of flavor.
- 2/3 cup Granulated sugar For macerating strawberries.
Instructions
Prepare Strawberry Mixture
- Wash and slice strawberries into small pieces. Combine with granulated sugar and toss lightly to coat. Allow to sit for at least an hour.
Make Pudding
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of strawberry syrup, fold in Cool Whip, and add 3 more tablespoons of syrup with 2 tablespoons of macerated strawberries.
Combine Mixtures
- Gently combine the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pudding without over-mixing.
Layering
- In a serving dish, pour a layer of pudding mixture over crushed cookies, add a layer of vanilla wafers, followed by macerated strawberries and sliced bananas.
- Repeat layering process until three layers are achieved, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
Chill and Serve
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Before serving, decorate with additional cookies, fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of strawberry syrup.
Notes
Use ripe bananas and strawberries for maximum sweetness. This dessert is perfect for preparing a day in advance. Add toasted nuts or granola for crunch. Keep fresh fruit for topping until just before serving.