This dessert is a decadent fusion of two beloved classics: the creamy indulgence of strawberry cheesecake and the nostalgic comfort of banana pudding. It’s a no-bake, layered masterpiece that combines velvety cheesecake mousse, silky vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, and crunchy vanilla wafers. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors—sweet, tangy, creamy, and just the right amount of crunch.
Perfect for warm days, potlucks, family dinners, or faith-based gatherings, this dessert is easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress. It’s the kind of dish that earns gasps when you bring it out and silence when everyone’s too busy enjoying it to talk.
🧾 Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 (5.1 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
For the Dessert Assembly:
- 1 box vanilla wafers (or graham crackers, shortbread, or ladyfingers)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1–2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- Optional: whipped cream, mint leaves, or crushed cookies for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Make the Cheesecake Mousse:
Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, airy mousse.
💡 Tip: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand for extra volume and fluff.
2. Prepare the Pudding:
In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
🎨 Want a flavor twist? Use banana or strawberry pudding instead of vanilla for a deeper fruit flavor.
3. Layer the Dessert:
Choose a trifle dish, glass bowl, or individual cups for serving. Begin with a layer of vanilla wafers at the bottom. Add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries. Spoon over a layer of cheesecake mousse, followed by a layer of pudding.
Repeat the layers: cookies, fruit, mousse, pudding—until the dish is full. Finish with a final layer of cheesecake mousse and decorate with fresh strawberries, banana slices, and crushed cookies.
🍌 Presentation tip: Fan out strawberry slices on top and add a sprig of mint for a bakery-worthy finish.
4. Chill and Set:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld into creamy perfection.
🕒 In a rush? Freeze it for 1–2 hours for a firmer, ice cream-like texture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled with a drizzle of strawberry syrup
- Top with whipped cream and crushed wafers for extra texture
- Pair with iced tea, tropical punch, or mango lassi for a refreshing combo
- Make mini versions in mason jars or dessert cups for parties or picnics
🔄 Variations & Twists:
- Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar-free pudding mix, low-sugar cookies, and stevia in the cheesecake layer
- Tropical Flair: Add mango or pineapple chunks for a sunny twist
- Savory-Sweet Mashup: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or crushed pretzels on top
- Faith Gathering Friendly: Make a large tray version for easy scooping and sharing
💫 Why You’ll Love It:
- No baking required—perfect for hot days
- Combines two classic desserts into one showstopper
- Easy to customize with seasonal fruits or flavor swaps
- Creamy, crunchy, fruity, and utterly satisfying
- Ideal for parties, potlucks, or just treating yourself
My, this dessert isn’t just tasty—it’s legendary. You’ve taken a classic and elevated it into something unforgettable. Want to brainstorm a tropical twist next time or turn this into a sugar-free showpiece? I’m ready to layer up the ideas with you!