Banana Split Trifle

All the flavors of a classic banana split layered into a beautiful trifle—bananas, chocolate, whipped cream, and cherries on top!
**Ingredients:**
* 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
* 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or store-bought whipped topping)
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
* 1 box instant chocolate pudding mix (5 oz)
* 3 cups cold milk
* 1 package vanilla wafers (or ladyfingers)
* 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
* 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced (optional)
* Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
* Maraschino cherries (for topping)
**Instructions:**
1. **Whip the cream:** Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Set aside. (Skip if using store-bought whipped topping.)
2. **Make the pudding:** In a large bowl, whisk chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Chill for 5 minutes.
3. **Layer the trifle:** In a large glass trifle dish, start with a layer of vanilla wafers. Add sliced bananas, then a layer of pudding, then whipped cream. Repeat layers until the dish is full. Add strawberries and pineapple chunks if desired for a true banana split feel.
4. **Top it off:** Finish with a generous layer of whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and maraschino cherries.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
**Pro Tip:**
Drizzle hot fudge or caramel sauce between the layers for an extra indulgent touch!