Here’s a delightful recipe for a Banana Pudding Cheesecake that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding!
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 45 wafers)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Banana Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1/2 cup whipped topping or heavy cream (whipped)
Toppings
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Banana slices (for garnish)
- Extra vanilla wafers
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix the vanilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium bowl until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add mashed bananas, sour cream, vanilla, and flour. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Place a baking dish of water on the rack below the cheesecake to help prevent cracking.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the center is almost set but still has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour in the oven.
- After an hour, transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer
- In a bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream until well combined.
- Spread the pudding layer evenly over the cooled cheesecake.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Add dollops of whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake.
- Garnish with banana slices and extra vanilla wafers.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Enjoy this creamy, dreamy combination of cheesecake and banana pudding! Perfect for gatherings or any time you’re craving a rich dessert with banana flavor.