Directions to follow

1. Start by beating the cream cheese in a bowl until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and continue to beat until the mixture becomes glossy.
3. Add the instant pudding mix and cold milk, combining until thickened for about 2 minutes. Let it rest for 5 minutes to firm up.
4. In a 9×13-inch dish, start layering. Place one box of vanilla wafers at the bottom.
5. Add half of the banana slices on top, followed by 1 ½ cups of strawberries, and half of the pudding mixture.
6. Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients—another box of vanilla wafers, the rest of the bananas, strawberries, and pudding mixture.
7. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top layer and cover it.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. When ready to serve, cut into squares and garnish with extra strawberry halves, mint leaves, or crushed vanilla wafers if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

This Strawberry Banana Pudding is best when it’s fully chilled, allowing the flavors to mingle and the wafers to soften just enough to provide that delightful texture. Consider serving it in clear glass cups to showcase the beautiful layers, and don’t hesitate to add a scoop of ice cream on the side for an extra treat! It pairs wonderfully with a slice of angel food cake or a dollop of chocolate sauce.

How to store

Storing your Strawberry Banana Pudding is straightforward. Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to extend its freshness, you can freeze it for up to a month; however, the texture may change slightly once thawed. Always make sure to handle your ingredients safely, especially when working with dairy products.

Helpful cooking tips

To ensure your pudding turns out perfectly, here are a few tips:

• Make sure that your cream cheese is at room temperature to blend easily.
• Use fresh, ripe bananas and strawberries for the best flavor.
• If you’re short on time, you can assemble the dessert in individual cups for quicker chilling and serving.
• For a bit of crunch, lightly crush some of the vanilla wafers to sprinkle on top before adding the whipped topping.

Different ways to try it

Want to switch it up a little? Here are some creative twists you can try:

• Substitute the vanilla wafers for chocolate wafers for a richer flavor.
• Add layers of crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Swap in different types of fruit, like blueberries or peaches, based on what’s in season or your personal preference.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this dessert?

Preparation typically takes about 30 minutes, but remember to allow time for chilling—at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or sugar-free pudding mix?

Yes! You can use low-fat options if you’re looking to lighten the dessert. Just remember, it may slightly affect the flavor and texture.

Is it safe to let the pudding sit out for a while at room temperature?

It’s best to keep the pudding refrigerated as much as possible. If left out, ensure it’s not for more than 2 hours to stay within safe food handling guidelines.

With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, Strawberry Banana Pudding is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every luscious bite!