Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 box vanilla wafers
• 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• Optional garnish: crushed vanilla wafers, strawberry slices, or extra whipped topping

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make the cheesecake pudding mixture:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until combined.
2. Add pudding:
   In a separate bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk and vanilla extract until thickened (about 2 minutes). Add this to the cream cheese mixture and mix until well combined.
3. Fold in whipped topping:
   Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Assemble the layers:
   In a 9×13 inch dish or a trifle bowl, start with a layer of vanilla wafers. Then layer with sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, and a layer of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
5. Chill:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and wafers soften.
6. Serve:
   Before serving, garnish with extra strawberries, crushed wafers, or a dollop of whipped topping.

Let me know if you’d like a version with fresh whipped cream or a no-condensed-milk variation!