🍌 Banana Pudding Cheesecake – The Ultimate Dessert Mash-Up

Looking for a dessert that’s both nostalgic and decadent? The Banana Pudding Cheesecake combines the comfort of classic banana pudding with the luxurious richness of New York-style cheesecake. It’s the best of both worlds—layered, luscious, and guaranteed to wow every guest at your table.

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, or weekend baking therapy, this dessert isn’t just beautiful—it’s incredibly satisfying. With a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a banana-infused cheesecake center, and a creamy banana pudding topping, each bite is smooth, sweet, and full of Southern charm.

Ingredients

Crust:

• 1½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas

Banana Pudding Layer:

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Sliced bananas 🍌
• Extra vanilla wafers

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and prep
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan. Optionally, line the base with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2: Make the crust
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafers, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to form a compact, even crust.
Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the cheesecake filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy—about 2–3 minutes on medium speed.
Add the vanilla extract and mix.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each addition (avoid overmixing).
Fold in the sour cream and mashed bananas, mixing gently until smooth.

Step 4: Bake the cheesecake
Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.

Step 5: Prepare the pudding layer
In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes, or until thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes before spreading.

Step 6: Assemble the layers
Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, gently spread the banana pudding layer on top.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow all layers to fully set.

Step 7: Decorate and serve
Right before serving, top with whipped cream, fresh banana slices, and crushed or whole vanilla wafers. Add mint leaves or a drizzle of caramel for extra elegance.

Variation

• Crust Option: Swap out vanilla wafers for graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies.

• Fruit Twist: Add chopped strawberries, pineapple, or even toasted coconut to the pudding topping for a tropical flair.

• No-Bake Shortcut: Use a pre-made crust and substitute the baked cheesecake filling with a gelatin-stabilized banana cheesecake mousse for a faster, no-oven version.

• Nutty Version: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust or sprinkle on top for texture.

COOKING Note

• Use ripe bananas: The browner the better! Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and enhance flavor.

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temp for a smooth, lump-free batter.

• Avoid overmixing: Especially after adding eggs—overbeating can cause the cheesecake to puff then crack.

• Chill thoroughly: A full overnight chill gives the best texture and allows the layers to firm up for clean slices.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce.

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee, sweet tea, or vanilla latte for a dreamy Southern dessert moment.

• Use banana chips, mint sprigs, or a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon as garnishes for added visual flair.

• For individual servings, prepare in mini jars or ramekins using the same layering method.

Tips for Success

• Line your springform pan with parchment for effortless removal.

• Tap the pan on the counter to remove air bubbles before baking.

• Let it cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracks.

• Decorate just before serving to keep bananas and whipped cream fresh and vibrant.

• If your cheesecake cracks—don’t worry! The pudding layer covers everything.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours (including chill time)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 6g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 290mg

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Yes! It’s actually best made a day ahead. The flavor improves and the layers set beautifully when chilled overnight.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep bananas and whipped cream separate until ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake?
A: Yes, but freeze without the pudding layer or toppings. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh toppings before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A: You can use a deep 9-inch pie dish or square pan, though it may be harder to slice cleanly.

Conclusion

The Banana Pudding Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that stops conversations and starts compliments. With its creamy banana-laced filling, silky pudding topping, and crunchy vanilla wafer base, it delivers flavor and nostalgia in every bite.

Whether you’re baking it for a celebration or just for fun, this cheesecake is sure to impress—and likely become a new family favorite. It’s the kind of dish that keeps people coming back for seconds, and asking for the recipe before they leave.

So go ahead, slice into something decadent, comforting, and absolutely unforgettable. Your Southern-inspired cheesecake dreams are just a fork away. 🍌🍰

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