Dreamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe: Sweet Comfort Magic

Creamy banana pudding finds its perfect match in this decadent cheesecake that promises pure comfort.

Layers of silky filling meld with classic Southern charm.

Crumbled vanilla wafers create a nostalgic base that anchors every delightful bite.

Rich cream cheese mingles with ripe bananas for an irresistible dessert experience.

Smooth custard notes weave through each forkful, inviting memories of grandmother’s kitchen.

Seasonal and indulgent, this recipe celebrates simplicity with unexpected elegance.

Come savor a slice that turns an ordinary evening into something magical.

Best Pairings with Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Smooth Coffee Companion: Serve a rich, medium-roast Colombian coffee to balance the cheesecake's sweetness and cut through its creamy texture.
• Chilled Dessert Wine Match: Select a late-harvest Riesling with honey notes that echoes the banana's natural sweetness and provides a delightful contrast.
• Enhance Banana Flavor Boost: Offer a banana liqueur as a small accompaniment, which intensifies the dessert's fruity profile and provides a subtle alcoholic warmth.
• Fresh Dairy Sidekick: Pour cold milk or a light vanilla almond milk to complement the cheesecake's richness and refresh the palate between bites.

Storage Recommendations for Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the cheesecake covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap the entire cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Cut individual slices, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before enjoying.
• Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power.

Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Can I use graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs for vanilla wafers. The crust will have a slightly different flavor but will still work well with the cheesecake.

• How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

Use very ripe, almost overripe bananas. They’re sweeter and will provide more intense banana flavor to the cheesecake.

• Do I need a water bath for this cheesecake?

No water bath is required for this recipe. The slow cooling method in the oven helps prevent cracking and ensures a smooth texture.

• Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be prepared a day or two in advance. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Why Banana Pudding Cheesecake Is So Popular

• Craft a Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Blend two beloved classics – banana pudding and cheesecake – into one spectacular treat that will wow family and friends at any gathering.
• Master Simple Baking Techniques: Follow straightforward steps to create a professional-looking dessert without requiring advanced culinary skills, making it perfect for home bakers of all levels.
• Indulge in Layered Flavor Explosion: Experience a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet banana pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafer elements that create a harmonious and irresistible dessert experience.
• Prep-Ahead Party Superstar: Prepare this make-ahead dessert in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying celebrations and less time in the kitchen during special occasions.

Ingredients Required for Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Vanilla Wafer Crumbs: A classic cookie base that adds a sweet, crunchy foundation to the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the crust.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together and provides a rich flavor.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tangy flavor to the cheesecake.
• Large Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake filling.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
• Ripe Bananas: Infuse the cheesecake with natural banana flavor and moisture.

• Instant Pudding Mix, Cold Milk: Create a smooth, creamy banana pudding layer on top of the cheesecake.
• Banana Slices: Fresh fruit topping that adds visual appeal and extra banana flavor.
• Heavy Cream, Powdered Sugar, Vanilla Extract: Combine to make a light and fluffy whipped cream topping.
• Vanilla Wafer Crumbs: Provide a final crunchy garnish to complete the dessert.

How to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 325F (165C). Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Crumbly Base

• Vanilla wafer crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Melted butter

Press this delightful mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

• Cream cheese
• Granulated sugar

• Sour cream
• Eggs (one at a time)
• Vanilla extract
• Mashed ripe bananas

Mix until everything is perfectly combined and dreamy.

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Carefully pour the luscious cheesecake batter over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center looks set but still has a gentle jiggle. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for one hour.

Step 6: Cool Down and Chill

Remove the cheesecake and let it cool completely at room temperature. Transfer to the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 7: Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer

• Instant pudding mix
• Cold milk

Stir until the mixture thickens beautifully. Spread over the chilled cheesecake and dot with fresh banana slices.

Step 8: Whip Up the Creamy Topping

• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Continue whipping until luxurious stiff peaks form.

Step 9: Final Flourish

Spread the whipped cream over the banana pudding layer. Sprinkle with crushed vanilla wafer crumbs for that extra crunch. Slice, serve, and watch everyone swoon!

Pro Tips for Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Prevent Cracking: Use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing to create a smooth, crack-free cheesecake surface.
• Banana Ripeness Matters: Select fully ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor and natural sweetness in your pudding layer.
• Water Bath Technique: Place the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water during baking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent cracks.
• Wafer Crust Tip: Crush vanilla wafers finely and press firmly into the pan to create a compact, sturdy base that holds together perfectly.
• Chill for Best Texture: Allow the cheesecake to rest in the refrigerator overnight for optimal flavor development and a firm, creamy consistency.

Variation Ideas for Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace vanilla wafer crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly dessert.
• Vegan Banana Cheesecake: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs or silken tofu.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use sugar-free instant pudding mix to reduce overall sugar content.
• Tropical Banana Remix: Add shredded coconut to the crust, incorporate rum extract into the filling, and top with caramelized banana slices for an island-inspired variation.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes plus chilling time (at least 4 hours or overnight)
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

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

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 3 large eggs

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Finishing Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• Whipped cream for garnish
• Additional vanilla wafers for garnish

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Instructions

1. Craft a delectable foundation by combining crushed vanilla wafers, sugar, and melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth, gradually incorporating sour cream and eggs, ensuring each addition is thoroughly integrated.
3. Fold in vanilla extract and mashed bananas, blending until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
4. Gently pour the luscious cheesecake batter over the prepared crust, spreading evenly to create a perfect layer.
5. Position the pan in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven, baking for 50-60 minutes until the center sets with a gentle wobble.
6. After baking, leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for one hour, allowing it to cool gradually and prevent cracking.
7. Transfer to the countertop and let it cool completely before transferring to the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours or preferably overnight.
8. Whisk instant pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens to a creamy consistency, then carefully spread over the chilled cheesecake.
9. Arrange fresh banana slices atop the pudding layer for additional texture and flavor.
10. Prepare a cloud-like whipped cream by beating heavy cream in a chilled bowl, gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
11. Lavishly spread the whipped cream over the banana pudding layer, creating an elegant finish.
12. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers as a decorative and crunchy garnish before serving this decadent dessert.

Notes

• Prevent Banana Browning by tossing sliced bananas in a bit of lemon juice to maintain their fresh, bright color and prevent quick oxidation.
• Create Gluten-Free Version by substituting vanilla wafer crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this decadent dessert.
• Control Moisture Level by not overmixing the cheesecake batter, which helps prevent cracks and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
• Enhance Banana Flavor by using very ripe, almost black bananas for a deeper, more intense banana taste in the cheesecake filling.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 168
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 52 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg