Description
This Banana Pudding Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of traditional cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding. Featuring a crunchy vanilla wafer crust and a luscious banana-flavored cream cheese filling, this dessert is perfect for gatherings and special occasions. It’s baked to perfection and chilled for a smooth, dreamy texture, topped with fresh banana slices and vanilla wafers for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Filling
- 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Banana Cream Mixture
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup banana pudding mix
Garnish
- Sliced bananas
- Additional vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers with the melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then mix in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
- Prepare the banana cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold in the banana pudding mix, folding gently until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine mixtures: Carefully fold the banana cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, ensuring to keep the mixture light and airy.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the combined filling over the prepared vanilla wafer crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Chill the cheesecake: Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to firm up and develop flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the top of the cheesecake with sliced bananas and additional vanilla wafers for an appealing presentation and added texture.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Do not overbake; the cheesecake should still have a slight jiggle in the center to remain creamy.
- Chilling time is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly and for flavors to meld.
- If desired, garnish with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.
