Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe
This Banana Pudding Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding. Featuring a vanilla wafer crust and a luscious banana-infused cream cheese filling, it is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Tara
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup banana pudding mix
Garnish
- Sliced bananas
- Additional vanilla wafers
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers with the melted butter, mixing until evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
- Make the cream cheese filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Prepare the banana cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the banana pudding mix until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Combine fillings: Carefully fold the banana cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture, blending gently to maintain the light texture. Pour this combined filling over the prepared vanilla wafer crust in the springform pan.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Chill and garnish: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set. Before serving, garnish with sliced bananas and additional vanilla wafers for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once eggs are added to avoid too much air incorporation which can cause cracking.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight improves the texture and flavor melding.
- If desired, lightly toast additional vanilla wafers for a crunchier garnish.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
Keywords: banana pudding cheesecake, vanilla wafer crust, creamy banana dessert, banana cream cheesecake, no-bake banana pudding