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Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding takes tradition and adds a creamy, fruity twist. If you love classic banana pudding but crave something a bit more decadent, the addition of a tangy cheesecake layer and juicy strawberries makes this dessert a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or summer celebrations.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: choose a full fat brick style for richest texture
- Heavy whipping cream: fresh and very cold so it whips up fluffy
- Powdered sugar: dissolves smoothly for sweetening without graininess
- Vanilla extract: pure vanilla lets the other flavors shine
- Vanilla instant pudding mix: look for quality brands for best thickness
- Milk: whole milk gives the creamiest result and sets the pudding firmly
- Vanilla wafers: classic pairing with banana pudding choose crisp fresh cookies
- Bananas: ripe but still firm so they do not turn mushy
- Fresh strawberries: deep red and fragrant for vibrant color and flavor
- Crushed strawberry wafers: adds fruity crunch look for these in the cookie aisle or make your own by pulsing freeze dried strawberries with vanilla wafers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat room temperature cream cheese with a hand mixer until completely smooth and no lumps remain. In another bowl whip the cold heavy cream until it just starts to hold its shape. Add powdered sugar and vanilla and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese with a spatula moving in wide sweeping motions so the mixture stays light.
- Make the Pudding Base:
- Empty the vanilla pudding mix into a medium bowl. Pour in very cold milk and whisk briskly for about two minutes until it thickens. Let the pudding sit for five to ten minutes so it becomes completely set and ready for layering.
- Prepare Fresh Elements:
- Just before assembling slice bananas into quarterinch rounds. Chop strawberries into small even pieces to ensure every bite has some fruit. Save a handful of the prettiest strawberries to use as garnish on top.
- Begin Layering Process:
- Start with a single even layer of vanilla wafers in the base of your chosen serving dish or glasses. Spoon part of the pudding mixture over the cookies. Arrange a generous layer of banana slices then scatter chopped strawberries. Repeat the layers as space allows adding more cookies pudding bananas and strawberries.
- Add Cheesecake Element:
- Dollop or pipe a thick layer of the prepared cheesecake mixture over the last fruit layer. Smooth the top gently with a spatula so it looks enticing. Repeat if your serving dish is deep enough to create more layers always ending with the cheesecake on top.
- Chill and Set:
- Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of four hours. Overnight chilling is even better. This softens the cookies and gives all the flavors time to mingle for the most luscious result.
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My favorite part is the thick creamy cheesecake layer that tastes just like a classic New York style cheesecake but without baking. One summer my younger brother polished off nearly half the trifle before dinner was even served and now this dish is a staple at every family barbecue
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. After that the bananas may begin to brown and the cookies could become overly soft. For best presentation and texture add fresh fruit and cookie toppings just before serving so they stay crisp.
Ingredient Substitutions
Regular cream cheese can be swapped for a lactose free or vegan version if needed. You can use coconut whipped topping in place of heavy cream for a lighter or dairy free option. If strawberries are out of season try blueberries raspberries or even diced peaches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve straight from a deep trifle bowl for beautiful layered presentation or portion into individual glasses for easy entertaining. Top with extra whipped cream cookie crumbles or chocolate shavings. Pair with iced tea or a sparkling fruity beverage for a stunning summer dessert spread.
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Cultural Context
Banana pudding is a beloved staple in Southern United States cuisine often appearing at family gatherings and church picnics. Adding a cheesecake layer and strawberries gives a nod to New York and summertime farmers markets blending nostalgia with fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent bananas from browning?
Slice bananas just before layering and quickly add them to the dish to minimize exposure to air. You can also lightly brush slices with lemon juice for added protection.
- → Can I substitute the strawberries?
Yes, blueberries or raspberries offer alternative flavors and colors while still complementing the creamy base and pudding layers.
- → How long should this dessert chill?
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld for best taste and texture.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate a day in advance so the layers achieve optimal consistency before serving.
- → Are there alternatives to vanilla wafers?
Shortbread cookies or graham crackers can be used as substitutes, providing a similar texture and flavor base.