Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings together the creamy flavors of cheesecake, the sweetness of ripe bananas, and the freshness of strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is not just easy to make, but it also transports you to a summer picnic with each spoonful.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice because it combines familiar flavors into a unique and delicious dish. It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for gatherings. The layers of cheesecake, pudding, and fresh fruit create a pleasing look and taste that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your favorite fruits or cookies!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 box vanilla wafers (or other cookies of choice)
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Crushed strawberry wafers (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined. Set aside.
Prepare the pudding layer: In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Set aside to allow it to firm up a bit.
Assemble the pudding: In a serving dish or individual serving cups, layer the vanilla wafers at the bottom. Add a layer of banana slices and fresh chopped strawberries over the cookies. Spread a layer of the cheesecake mixture on top of the fruit. Add a layer of vanilla pudding, smoothing it over the cheesecake layer. Repeat the layers as needed, alternating between the fruit, cheesecake, and pudding.
Top and chill: Garnish with more fresh strawberries and crushed strawberry wafers on top for texture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
Serve this dessert chilled. You can scoop it into bowls or individual cups for personal servings. Adding a sprig of mint or a few extra strawberry slices on top makes it look even more appealing!
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
You can store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover it properly. It is best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness, but it can be kept for up to a week.
Tips to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
- Make the cheesecake layer a day ahead to save time on the day you plan to serve it.
- Use ripe bananas for better sweetness and flavor.
- Feel free to swap out vanilla wafers for your favorite cookies, such as graham crackers or even chocolate cookies for a twist.
Variation
You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries to mix in with the bananas and strawberries. This adds different flavors and colors, making your dessert even more exciting!
FAQs
Can I use light cream cheese?
Yes, you can use light cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free cookies in place of vanilla wafers, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version.How do I know when the pudding is thick enough?
The pudding should have a consistency that holds its shape when you scoop it. It typically thickens after about 2 minutes of whisking. If it’s too thin, allow it to sit for a few more minutes to firm up.
Enjoy making this tasty Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding and sharing it with your friends and family!
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding
Ingredients
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 package 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream Whipped to stiff peaks
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Pudding Layer
- 1 box 5.1 oz vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Assembly Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla wafers (or other cookies of choice) For layering
- 2 medium bananas, sliced Use ripe for better flavor
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped Plus extra for garnish
- to taste Crushed strawberry wafers Optional, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined. Set aside.
Prepare the Pudding Layer
- In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Set aside to allow it to firm up a bit.
Assemble the Pudding
- In a serving dish or individual serving cups, layer the vanilla wafers at the bottom.
- Add a layer of banana slices and fresh chopped strawberries over the cookies.
- Spread a layer of the cheesecake mixture on top of the fruit.
- Add a layer of vanilla pudding, smoothing it over the cheesecake layer.
- Repeat the layers as needed, alternating between the fruit, cheesecake, and pudding.
Top and Chill
- Garnish with more fresh strawberries and crushed strawberry wafers on top for texture.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up.
