Image Source: Instagram @blackfoodiefinder – Recipe by @chefakayy
A Spoonful of Heaven: This Ain’t Your Grandma’s Banana Pudding
When it comes to soul food desserts, banana pudding is the undefeated champ at every cookout, church gathering, and Sunday dinner. But what happens when you remix it with rich cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and buttery cookies? You get The Viral Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding—an irresistible, creamy dessert that’s got the internet drooling and our people coming back for seconds (and thirds).
Chef Akayy flipped the traditional banana pudding on its head and took things to the next level with this Southern twist. It’s bold, nostalgic, and sweet enough to make Big Mama proud. Whether you’re making it for a family reunion or flexing your skills on social, this layered dessert is pure edible luxury.
What You Need: Ingredients
- 1 box banana cream Jell-O pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 1 box vanilla Jell-O pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 3 cups cold milk
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
- 1 pack Pepperidge Farm Chessmen butter cookies
- 1 pack Nilla wafers
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
- 12 oz New York style cheesecake, cut into cubes
- Strawberry syrup (optional, for drizzle)
Step-by-Step: Layer the Love
1. Mix the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the banana cream and vanilla pudding mixes with 3 cups of cold milk. Whisk or blend until the mixture is smooth and thick. Set aside to chill while prepping the rest.
2. Whip the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Continue mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.
3. Fold in the Cool Whip
Gently fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy. This adds that velvety texture that makes the pudding so addictive.
4. Combine the Layers
Pour the cream cheese mixture into the pudding mixture and fold them together. The result should be rich, creamy, and smooth—no lumps!
5. Build the First Layer
Line the bottom of a large aluminum tray or trifle dish with Chessmen cookies and Nilla wafers. Layer in banana and strawberry slices.
6. Add Cheesecake Bites
Top the fruit with cubes of New York style cheesecake. This adds that signature creamy decadence with every bite.
7. Spoon the Pudding Mixture
Generously layer the pudding mixture over the cookies, fruit, and cheesecake. Spread evenly to cover.
8. Repeat & Stack It High
Repeat the layers—cookies, fruit, cheesecake, pudding—until you’ve reached the top of the dish. Be generous with each layer!
9. Top & Finish
Garnish with sliced strawberries, banana coins, a few crushed cookies, and extra cheesecake bites on top. Drizzle with strawberry syrup for that extra drip.
10. Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better) to let all the flavors meld together into a creamy, dreamy dessert.
Tips from the Kitchen: How to Level Up Your Banana Pudding
For that rich bakery-style flavor, always use real New York cheesecake—store-bought works just fine! Be sure your cream cheese is at room temp for a smoother mix, and don’t rush the chilling process. It’s what makes the dessert hold together and slice like a dream.
Want to add a little razzle-dazzle? A drizzle of strawberry syrup or even a sprinkle of crushed pecans can take this from cookout to culinary masterpiece.
And listen—don’t be afraid to put your spin on it. Whether you double up the cheesecake or layer it in mason jars for a party-ready presentation, this dish is all about Southern-style indulgence.
About the Creator
This mouthwatering creation is brought to you by Chef Akayy, known for turning classic desserts into crave-worthy, viral recipes. From banana pudding to peach cobbler cinnamon rolls, Chef Akayy is a master of remixing comfort food with modern flair.
Check out more of Chef Akayy’s creations on Instagram @chefakayy and see what the hype is all about.
Watch Video
Watch how this dreamy dessert comes to life on BlackFoodieFinder Instagram