Ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Pudding:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup vanilla pudding mix (dry, not prepared)

1 cup crushed graham crackers (for crust-like texture)

2 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Strawberry Sauce:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp cornstarch

For Garnish:

Whipped cream (optional)

Fresh banana slices

Fresh strawberry slices

Directions:

Prepare the Strawberry Sauce:

In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.

Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are softened and the mixture has thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to a jar or container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Prepare the Cheesecake Pudding:

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.

Stir in the vanilla pudding mix until smooth.

Gently fold in the sliced bananas.

Assemble the Pudding Jars:

In each jar, start with a layer of crushed graham crackers.

Add a layer of the cheesecake pudding mixture.

Spoon some of the strawberry sauce on top.

Repeat the layers if desired, ending with a layer of strawberry sauce.

Add the Garnish:

Top each jar with a dollop of whipped cream, if using.

Garnish with fresh banana slices and strawberry slices.

Serve:

Chill the jars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Enjoy your Banana and Strawberry Cheesecake Pudding Jars, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, sweet bananas, and fruity strawberry sauce!

This dessert is a fun and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of banana and strawberry cheesecake in a convenient jar format!