Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers (approximately 60 wafers)
02 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)

→ Pudding

04 - 1 box (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
05 - 2 cups cold milk (whole or 2% preferred)

→ Cream Cheese Mixture

06 - 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
07 - 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

→ Fruits

10 - 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
11 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

→ Garnish (optional)

12 - Extra whipped topping
13 - Crushed vanilla wafers
14 - Fresh strawberry slices
15 - Banana coins
16 - Mint leaves

# Instructions:

01 - Combine crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter and sugar if using. Press the mixture evenly into a 9x13-inch dish and chill in the refrigerator.
02 - Whisk instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until smooth. Set aside in the refrigerator to slightly thicken.
03 - Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Incorporate sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Fold in the chilled pudding mixture, then gently fold in the whipped topping until combined.
04 - Layer the crust with banana slices followed by half of the cream cheese mixture, then add sliced strawberries, and top with the remaining cream cheese mixture.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set properly.
06 - Before serving, decorate with additional whipped topping, crushed vanilla wafers, fresh strawberry slices, banana coins, and mint leaves.

# Notes:

01 - Use ripe yet firm bananas to maintain texture; keep strawberries dry after washing to prevent excess moisture.
02 - Brushing banana slices with lemon juice helps prevent browning if preparing in advance.
03 - Ensure thorough chilling, at least 4 hours, to develop optimal flavor and texture.