Dreamy Strawberry Banana Pudding

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh strawberries (or 1 ½ cups frozen)

• 3 ripe bananas

• 1 box (5.1 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional, for layering)

• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit:

   • Slice the strawberries thinly and set aside.

   • Slice the bananas into rounds and set aside.

2. Make the Pudding:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk. Stir for about 2 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken.

   • In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture, making it extra creamy.

3. Layer the Dessert:

   • In a serving dish (or individual cups), start with a layer of graham cracker crumbs (if using). This gives a slight crunch, but you can skip it for a more traditional pudding texture.

   • Layer a portion of the pudding mixture over the crumbs, then add a layer of sliced bananas, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.

   • Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped pudding.

4. Chill & Serve:

   • Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set and the flavors to meld.

   • Before serving, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and optionally, more sliced strawberries and bananas for garnish.