This unique Half Banana Pudding, Half Strawberry Shortcake dessert is the best of both worlds! It combines layers of creamy banana pudding with fresh strawberries and fluffy shortcake for a deliciously fruity treat. Perfect for parties or family gatherings!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Banana Pudding Layer:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced 🍌
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix 🍮
- 2 cups cold milk 🥛
- 1 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream) 🥄
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
- 1 box vanilla wafers (for layering) 🍪
For the Strawberry Shortcake Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced 🍓
- 1/4 cup sugar 🍬
- 1 store-bought or homemade pound cake (sliced) 🍰
- 1 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream) 🥄
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Banana Pudding:
- Make the pudding:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Fold in whipped topping:
- Gently fold in the whipped topping and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Slice the bananas:
- Slice the bananas and set them aside for layering.
2. Prepare the Strawberries:
- Macerate the strawberries:
- In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar. Stir and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
3. Assemble the Dessert:
- Start with the banana pudding layer:
- In a trifle dish or large bowl, layer vanilla wafers on the bottom. Add a layer of banana slices, followed by a generous layer of the banana pudding mixture.
- Add the strawberry shortcake layer:
- On top of the banana pudding layer, add a layer of sliced pound cake, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries and their juices. Spread whipped topping over the strawberries.
- Repeat the layers:
- Continue alternating layers of banana pudding (wafers, bananas, pudding) and strawberry shortcake (pound cake, strawberries, whipped topping) until the dish is full, ending with a layer of whipped topping.
4. Serve:
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve:
- Before serving, garnish with extra banana slices, fresh strawberries, or crushed vanilla wafers if desired.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱️ Chilling Time: 2 hours
⏱️ Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 8-10 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal per serving
This Half Banana Pudding, Half Strawberry Shortcake dessert offers layers of creamy banana goodness and fresh strawberry sweetness, making it a perfect mashup of two classic desserts! 🍓🍌🍮