Prepare Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Whip Cream (if using fresh): In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the prepared pudding until smooth and creamy.
Layer the Pudding: In a trifle dish or individual serving cups, layer vanilla wafers (optional), sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, and pudding mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with pudding on top.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let flavors meld and wafers soften slightly.
Garnish & Serve: Top with extra whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, banana slices, or crushed wafers before serving.
✅ Tips:
For extra flavor, drizzle a little strawberry syrup or caramel between layers.
Make it in a large dish for parties or in small jars for individual servings.
If you like a crunchier texture, add wafers just before serving instead of at the beginning.
I can also give you a no-bake version with cream cheese for extra richness, which makes it more like a dessert pie in a jar — it’s decadent and super creamy.
