A Dreamy Fusion of Two Classic Desserts in One!
Layers of creamy cheesecake pudding, fresh strawberries, sweet bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers create the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s both nostalgic and decadent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🍌 Best of both worlds – Banana pudding meets cheesecake!
🍓 Fresh & fruity – Strawberries add brightness
⏱ No-bake & easy – Ready in 15 mins (+ chilling)
🍰 Perfect for parties – Individual jars or one big trifle
Ingredients Breakdown
Cheesecake Pudding Layer
| Quantity | Ingredient | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (3.4 oz) | Cheesecake pudding mix | Instant flavor base |
| 2 cups | Cold milk | Pudding liquid |
| 1 cup | Heavy cream | Whipped lightness |
| 1 cup | Cream cheese | Rich tang |
| ¼ cup | Powdered sugar | Smooth sweetness |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla extract | Flavor depth |
Fruit & Crunch Layers
| 1 cup | Sliced strawberries | Fresh contrast |
| 2 | Ripe bananas | Creamy sweetness |
| 1 (11 oz) box | Vanilla wafers | Nostalgic crunch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Pudding Base
- Whisk pudding mix + milk until thick
- Chill 5 mins to set
2. Prepare the Cream Layers
- Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks
- Beat cream cheese + sugar + vanilla until smooth
- Fold whipped cream into pudding
3. Assemble the Parfaits
- In jars or trifle dish, layer:
- Vanilla wafers
- Banana slices
- Pudding mixture
- Strawberries
- Repeat layers
- Top with extra strawberries
4. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate at least 2 hours
- Garnish with crushed wafers before serving
Pro Tips for the Best Texture
Pudding Perfection
✔ Use full-fat milk for creamier pudding
❄️ Chill pudding before folding in cream
Fruit Prep
🍌 Slice bananas just before assembling (to prevent browning)
🍓 Pat strawberries dry to avoid sogginess
Make-Ahead Friendly
- Prep pudding 1 day ahead
- Assemble 3 hours before serving
Creative Variations
Tropical Twist:
- Use pineapple + coconut whipped cream
Chocolate Lover’s:
- Add chocolate pudding layer
Peanut Butter Banana:
- Swirl in peanut butter with cream cheese
Serving Suggestions
Party Style:
- Serve in clear mason jars
- Top with golden Oreo crumbs
Family Dessert:
- Make one large trifle
- Add caramel drizzle
Storage Tips
Fridge: Up to 1 day (best fresh)
Freezer: Not recommended (bananas will brown)
Troubleshooting
Issue | Solution
Runny pudding | Chill longer or add extra pudding mix
Soggy wafers | Layer pudding first, then wafers
Bananas browning | Brush with lemon juice
Final Chef’s Secret: For extra decadence, drizzle layers with salted caramel sauce!
This dessert is pure comfort in every spoonful—creamy, fruity, and crunchy all at once. The cheesecake pudding adds a luxurious twist to classic banana pudding, while the strawberries keep it fresh and vibrant.
Perfect for: Potlucks, summer BBQs, or a sweet weeknight treat!
Tag your creations #CheesecakePuddingParfait! 🍌🍓💛
