Man, this was the dish for me when I was a kid. I’d bug my mom all the time to whip it out 

Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad is a delightful and creamy dessert that combines the fresh flavors of summer fruits with the rich, decadent taste of cheesecake. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat after a long week, this salad is a wonderful way to enjoy the best of both worlds—fruit and cheesecake! The addition of instant cheesecake pudding mix and cream cheese makes it super easy and quick to prepare, yet impressive enough to wow your friends and family. This dish has become a favorite in my household, especially during warm weekends when we love to enjoy it out on the porch.

This Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad pairs beautifully with a light barbecue or a grilled chicken dinner. Consider serving it alongside some crispy garlic bread and a fresh garden salad to balance out the creamy and sweet flavors. It's also a fantastic stand-alone dessert for a picnic or a casual get-together. For an extra touch of indulgence, try sprinkling some crushed graham crackers on top before serving.

Servings: 6-8

1 package (3.4 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix
1 1/2 cups milk
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
3 large bananas, sliced
1 tsp vanilla extract

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant cheesecake pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and beat until well combined.

3. Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

4. Gradually add the pudding mixture to the cream cheese mixture, folding gently to combine.

5. Carefully fold in the sliced strawberries and bananas until evenly distributed.

6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

For a different twist, try using different fruits such as blueberries, peaches, or mangoes. You can also add in some mini marshmallows or a handful of chopped nuts for added texture. If you're watching your sugar intake, opt for sugar-free pudding mix and use a sugar substitute for the powdered sugar. For a more indulgent version, consider adding a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce before serving.