Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream
Ingredients
- 2 boxes vanilla wafers
- 6–8 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 container fresh strawberries, washed and sliced
For the Creamy Pudding Layer:
- 2 (5.1 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Layer:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (very cold)
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
Optional (but recommended):
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened (extra richness)
- Crushed vanilla wafers or sliced strawberries for topping
Instructions
1 Prepare the Pudding Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thick. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
If using cream cheese: beat it separately until smooth, then fold it into the pudding mixture for an ultra-rich texture.
2 Make the Whipped Cream
In another bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture using a spatula. This step makes the pudding light, fluffy, and dreamy.
3 Slice the Fruit
Slice bananas into even rounds. Slice strawberries thinly.
Tip: If your bananas are very ripe, toss them lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning.
4 Assemble the Layers
In a large glass dish or trifle bowl:
- Start with a layer of vanilla wafers
- Add a layer of banana slices
- Add a layer of strawberries
- Spread a thick layer of pudding cream
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a pudding layer on top.
5 Final Touch
Top with crushed vanilla wafers, strawberry slices, or whole wafers for decoration.
6 Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
This allows the wafers to soften and absorb the creamy flavors.
Serving Tips
- Serve cold for best texture
- Perfect for parties, holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings
- Gets even better the next day