Description
Indulgent banana pudding cheesecake merges classic Southern comfort with creamy decadence. Layers of vanilla wafer crust, silky cream cheese filling, and fresh bananas create a dessert sure to delight you at every sweet, nostalgic bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 blocks (226 grams / 8 ounces) cream cheese
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup banana pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
Crust and Binding Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups crushed vanilla wafers
- 0.5 cup melted butter
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 2 cups whipped cream
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional crushed vanilla wafers (for topping)
- Additional sliced bananas (for garnish)
Instructions
- Craft a buttery foundation by pulverizing vanilla wafers and blending with melted butter. Press the crumbly mixture firmly into a springform pan’s base, creating an even layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to solidify the crust.
- Whip cream cheese and sugar in a large mixing bowl until silky and uniform. Gently incorporate whipped cream and vanilla extract, folding delicately to maintain a light, airy texture.
- Carefully spread half of the velvety cheesecake mixture over the chilled crust, ensuring a smooth surface. Arrange banana slices in an attractive, even layer across the filling.
- Prepare banana pudding by whisking pudding mix with cold milk until thickened and creamy. Drizzle the pudding mixture evenly over the banana layer.
- Delicately top with remaining cheesecake filling, using a spatula to create a pristine, level surface. Eliminate any air pockets by gently tapping the pan.
- Refrigerate for 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the dessert to set completely and flavors to meld.
- Prior to serving, garnish with additional crushed vanilla wafers and fresh banana slices. Slice with a clean, sharp knife and serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
- Replace vanilla wafers with gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt to reduce calories without compromising the creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Prevent banana browning by tossing sliced bananas in a bit of lemon juice before layering, keeping them fresh and visually appealing.
- Create individual mini cheesecakes in mason jars for a cute, portable dessert perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 407 kcal
- Sugar: 29 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg