Chocolate and Banana Pudding Trifle

Ingredients:

– 2 cups chocolate pudding (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 package (about 10 oz) of vanilla wafers or ladyfingers
– 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup vanilla pudding (optional, for layering)
– 1 tablespoon cocoa powder or shaved chocolate for garnish

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Puddings:**
– If using store-bought puddings, simply set them aside. If making homemade pudding, prepare the chocolate and vanilla puddings according to your recipe or package instructions. Let them cool.

2. **Layer the Dessert:**
– In a large glass trifle dish or individual serving dishes, begin by placing a layer of vanilla wafers or ladyfingers at the bottom.
– Add a layer of sliced bananas over the cookies.
– Spoon a layer of chocolate pudding over the bananas.
– Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the pudding.
– Repeat the layers: cookies, bananas, pudding, and whipped cream. If you’re using vanilla pudding as well, alternate the chocolate and vanilla puddings between layers.
– Finish the trifle with a final layer of whipped cream on top.

3. **Garnish:**
– Drizzle some melted chocolate or chocolate syrup over the top for decoration.
– Optionally, dust with cocoa powder or add some chocolate shavings for an extra touch.

4. **Chill:**
– Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. **Serve:**
– Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator. This dessert is perfect for any gathering or as a special treat after dinner.

This layered dessert is creamy, rich, and full of flavor, with the perfect combination of chocolate, bananas, and cream. Enjoy!