The Perfect Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe That Sparks Joy

Crafting a delectable banana pudding cheesecake brings pure dessert magic right to your kitchen.

Sweet memories of childhood treats blend seamlessly with creamy sophistication.

Southern comfort meets elegant indulgence in this irresistible recipe.

Layers of smooth cream cheese and ripe banana create a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Crushed vanilla wafers provide a delightful crunch that complements the silky filling.

Whipped cream crowns this dreamy dessert, promising an experience that feels both nostalgic and luxurious.

You’ll want to savor every single decadent bite of this show-stopping cheesecake.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake: Why This Recipe’s a Must-Make

• Combining classic banana pudding with creamy cheesecake creates a nostalgic, indulgent dessert that appeals to both kids and adults, ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Prepare this dessert in advance and let it chill, allowing flavors to meld together while saving you last-minute stress during meal preparation or entertaining guests.
• After the initial crust baking, the rest of the recipe comes together with simple mixing and chilling, reducing overall cooking time and kitchen effort.

Gather These Ingredients for Banana Pudding Cheesecake Magic

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a crunchy and sweet foundation for the cheesecake.
• Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crust and adds rich flavor.

• Cream Cheese: The primary creamy component that gives the cheesecake its signature smooth and tangy texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Whipped Topping: Adds lightness and creates a fluffy, creamy consistency to the dessert.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aromatic profile.

• Bananas: Provides natural sweetness and a soft, creamy texture to the cheesecake, complementing the cream cheese base.

How to Build the Perfect Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Step 1: Craft the Crunchy Crust

Grab your graham crackers and crush them into fine crumbs.

Melt butter and mix thoroughly with the cracker crumbs.

Press the mixture firmly into a greased springform pan, creating an even layer.

Pop the crust into the oven at 350F (175C) and bake for 10 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

Remove and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Base

Take softened cream cheese and sugar, then beat them together until they become smooth and velvety.

Pour in vanilla extract and mix until perfectly combined.

The mixture should be silky and free of any lumps.

Step 3: Fold in Banana Goodness

Carefully slice ripe bananas and gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture.

Ensure the banana slices are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.

Step 4: Create Fluffy Texture

Gently incorporate whipped topping into the mixture, folding delicately to maintain the light and airy consistency.

Mix just until combined to preserve the pudding-like texture.

Step 5: Layer and Assemble

Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.

Arrange a beautiful layer of fresh banana slices on top.

Carefully pour the remaining cream cheese mixture over the bananas, smoothing the surface with a spatula to create a perfectly even top.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover the cheesecake and place it in the refrigerator.

Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.

This resting time helps the flavors meld and the texture to become perfectly set.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator just before serving.

Slice with a clean, sharp knife and watch as your guests dive into this creamy, banana-packed dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and banana pudding.

Tips for Creamy, Dreamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Choose perfectly yellow bananas with small brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor intensity.
• Bake graham cracker crust briefly before adding filling to create a crisp, stable base that won't become soggy.
• Ensure cream cheese is room temperature and beat thoroughly to eliminate lumps for a silky, creamy texture.
• Distribute banana slices evenly between cream cheese layers for consistent fruity flavor in every bite.
• Allow cheesecake to set in refrigerator for minimum 4 hours, preferably overnight, to develop rich, harmonious taste and firm consistency.

Keeping Banana Pudding Cheesecake Fresh and Delicious

• Wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, keeping it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its fresh flavor and creamy texture.
• Carefully wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months without losing its delightful taste and smooth consistency.
• Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to slowly defrost and preserve its original creamy texture. Avoid room temperature thawing to prevent potential texture changes.
• Gently warm individual slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and restore the cake's optimal softness.

What to Pair with Banana Pudding Cheesecake for Dessert Bliss

• Pair with Caramel Affogato: Drizzle rich caramel espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato to complement the creamy banana cheesecake's sweet profile.
• Recommend Aged Bourbon Pairing: Select a smooth, oak-aged bourbon with subtle vanilla notes that harmonize beautifully with the dessert's rich texture and banana essence.
• Serve with Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Create a light, spiced topping by whipping heavy cream with ground cinnamon to enhance the cheesecake's warm, comforting flavors.
• Match with Toasted Pecan Sprinkle: Garnish with finely chopped, lightly toasted pecans to add a delightful crunch and nutty dimension to each creamy cheesecake bite.

Variations to Shake Up Your Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Banana Bliss: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut whipped cream, and substitute butter with coconut oil.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, and incorporate Greek yogurt for added protein and reduced calorie content.
• Tropical Remix: Add toasted coconut flakes on top and mix in diced pineapple for a Caribbean-inspired flavor profile.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a similar texture and flavor profile.

• Is it possible to make this recipe without bananas?

While bananas are key to this cheesecake, you could replace them with another soft fruit like mashed strawberries or peaches if needed.

• How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven after baking to minimize cracking.

• Can I freeze this banana pudding cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to maintain its quality.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Southern charm meets creamy indulgence in this banana pudding cheesecake, blending classic comfort with luxurious dessert magic. Silky layers of banana-infused cheesecake and vanilla wafer crust promise a delightful journey through sweet, nostalgic flavors you’ll savor to the last bite.

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Ingredients

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Cake Base:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ripe bananas, sliced

Topping:

• 2 cups whipped topping

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and create a graham cracker crust by mixing crumbs with melted butter, pressing firmly into a greased springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes until achieving a golden hue.
2. Using an electric mixer, cream the softened cream cheese and sugar until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency. Incorporate vanilla extract, blending thoroughly.
3. Delicately introduce sliced bananas into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
4. Gently fold whipped topping into the mixture, maintaining a light and airy texture without overmixing.
5. Carefully spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, strategically arrange additional banana slices as a mid-layer, then top with remaining cream cheese mixture. Smooth the surface to create an even finish.
6. Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake, covering securely, for a minimum of 4 hours or ideally overnight to allow flavors to meld and texture to set perfectly before serving.

Notes

• Crust Tip: Use vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for a more traditional banana pudding flavor profile.
• Banana Selection: Choose ripe, slightly soft bananas for maximum sweetness and easier mashing into the cheesecake mixture.
• Texture Enhancement: Gently fold ingredients to maintain airiness and prevent deflating the whipped topping for a lighter, fluffier cheesecake.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This dessert tastes even better when prepared a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld and develop deeper richness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg