Description
Banana pudding meets cheesecake in this Southern classic that blends creamy textures and nostalgic flavors. Delicate layers of vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and silky cheesecake create a dessert that brings comfort and joy to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Filling:
- 3 packs (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed bananas
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Sliced bananas
- Crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Craft a graham cracker foundation by blending crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter. Press firmly into a greased 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake at 175C for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then allow to cool completely.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar until velvety smooth. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough blending after each addition. Fold in ripe mashed bananas, tangy sour cream, and aromatic vanilla extract until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
- Gently cascade the creamy banana-infused filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Position in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, watching for a subtle jiggle in the center when gently shaken.
- After baking, switch off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 60 minutes. This gradual cooling prevents potential cracking and promotes a silky texture.
- Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight. This resting period enhances the flavor and sets the delicate structure.
- Just before serving, crown the cheesecake with billowy whipped cream, arrange fresh banana medallions around the edge, and sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers for a delightful crunch. Slice and savor this luxurious dessert.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are ripe and soft for maximum flavor intensity and natural sweetness in the cheesecake.
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to prevent lumps and create a smoother, more consistent filling texture.
- Crush vanilla wafers finely for a more compact and stable crust that holds together perfectly when sliced.
- Cool the cheesecake gradually inside the oven to prevent cracking and maintain a silky, crack-free surface.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 390kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg