Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe rich aroma of ripe bananas and creamy cheese lingers in the air as I whip up my favorite dessert—Banana Pudding Cheesecake. This delightful twist on a classic combines all the elements we love about traditional banana pudding with the luxurious texture of cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both impressive and downright irresistible. What makes this Banana Pudding Cheesecake truly special is its buttery Nilla Wafer crust and light, fluffy whipped topping—a combination that adds an extra layer of texture that everyone will adore. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, this recipe offers a quick prep time and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Are you ready to make your taste buds dance with joy? Let’s dive into this luscious treat together! Why Is This Cheesecake Irresistible? Decadent Flavor: The blend of creamy banana pudding and rich cheesecake offers a taste sensation that you won’t forget. Unique Texture: Enjoy the contrast of the buttery Nilla Wafer crust and the airy whipped topping, making each bite a delightful experience. Quick Prep: With straightforward steps, this recipe comes together effortlessly—perfect for busy home cooks! Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests with a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better, like my popular Fried Strawberry Cheesecake. Versatile Options: Whether you’re serving at a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cheesecake adapts to any occasion. Each mouthful of this Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a reminder that dessert should be a celebration of flavor and fun! Banana Pudding Cheesecake Ingredients For the Crust • Nilla Wafers – These create a sweet and crunchy base for the cheesecake. • Brown Sugar – Adds a rich depth of flavor to the crust. • Unsalted Butter – Helps bind the crust ingredients together and adds richness. For the Cheesecake Filling • Cream Cheese – Provides the creamy foundation; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing. • White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly. • Pure Vanilla Extract – Infuses the mixture with aromatic flavor. • Bananas – Acts as the primary flavor and moisture source; ripe bananas work best for sweetness. • Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess and creaminess to the filling. • Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious richness to the overall cheesecake. • Large Eggs – Provides structure and ensures the cheesecake sets properly; room temperature eggs blend more smoothly. For the Whipped Topping • Instant Vanilla Pudding – Creates a light, fluffy topping that complements the cheesecake beautifully. • Milk – Used to mix with the pudding for consistency. • Crushed Nilla Wafers – Perfect for garnishing the finished cake, adding more crunch. Emphasize the pleasure of preparing this Banana Pudding Cheesecake with loved ones as you gather these delightful ingredients! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Pudding Cheesecake Step 1: Prepare the Crust Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a food processor, blend Nilla Wafers until they become fine crumbs. Combine the crumbs with brown sugar and melted unsalted butter, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 11 minutes until golden and fragrant. Step 2: Mix Cheesecake Filling In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar on high speed for about 2 minutes until smooth. Add mashed ripe bananas, pure vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, mixing until just lumpy. Gradually add the room temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed to keep the filling creamy without overmixing. Step 3: Layer Cheesecake Once the filling is ready, pour half of it over the baked Nilla Wafer crust, spreading it evenly. Next, layer sliced bananas and a sprinkle of crushed Nilla Wafers on top of the batter. Carefully pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the layers, ensuring an even distribution. This combination of flavors creates the heavenly Banana Pudding Cheesecake we all love. Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake To ensure even baking and prevent cracks, place a larger baking dish filled with hot water on the bottom rack of your oven. Place the cheesecake on the middle rack and bake for 80 to 90 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly when done. Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cake to cool for about 30 minutes, which will help prevent any sudden temperature changes. Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake After the cheesecake cools, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it set for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture. This patience is key to achieving that perfect Banana Pudding Cheesecake, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully while it firms up. Step 6: Prepare the Whipped Topping In a mixing bowl, beat together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until well combined, creating a light and airy topping that will crown your cheesecake heavenly. Step 7: Finish the Cake Once the cheesecake has chilled completely, gently remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate. Top the cheesecake generously with the whipped pudding mixture, spreading it evenly. For a final touch, sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top, adding an extra crunch that perfectly complements the creamy layers of your Banana Pudding Cheesecake. Banana Pudding Cheesecake Variations Feel free to explore these delicious twists that will elevate your Banana Pudding Cheesecake experience! Berry Bliss: Replace bananas with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a vibrant, fruity flavor. The tartness complements the creaminess beautifully. Chocolate Indulgence: Add a rich layer of chocolate ganache atop the cheesecake before the whipped topping. This will introduce a decadent chocolate flavor that melds perfectly with the bananas. Nutty Crunch: Stir in crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the crust for an added crunch and flavor depth. You can even sprinkle some on top for a textural twist! Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce throughout the cheesecake filling before baking for a sweet, gooey surprise. The caramel adds warmth and richness that pairs wonderfully with bananas. Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and replace sour cream with coconut yogurt for a vegan-friendly dessert. It’s still creamy and delicious! Coconut Cream: Incorporate shredded coconut into the crust and cheesecake filling for a tropical touch. This addition will enhance the dessert’s flavor profile, giving it a delightful beachy vibe. Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake mix for a warm, spiced flavor that adds a cozy feel, perfect for fall gatherings. Layered Delight: For an elegant presentation, create individual servings in jars. Layer crushed wafers, cheesecake filling, and sliced bananas for a stunning dessert display. Check out my popular Banana Walnut Muffins for more layering ideas. No matter how you customize it, each variation of the Banana Pudding Cheesecake guarantees to impress! Make Ahead Options These Banana Pudding Cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the crust and let it cool completely before adding a layer of the mixed filling. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You can slice the bananas and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to prevent browning, so everything is conveniently ready to finish. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the cheesecake as directed, let it set, and finish by preparing the whipped topping just before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious dessert with minimal last-minute effort! What to Serve with Banana Pudding Cheesecake As you savor the creamy layers of this cheesecake, consider these delightful accompaniments to complete your dessert experience. Fresh Berries: Bright summer berries like strawberries and blueberries add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweet and rich cheesecake. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the creamy texture, making every bite feel indulgent and festive. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle with warm chocolate sauce for a decadent twist that complements the banana flavors beautifully while adding richness to every forkful. Caramel Sauce: A touch of salted caramel elevates the sweetness of this dessert, creating a delicious balance that leaves guests craving more. Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves bring a subtle freshness that brightens the overall flavor profile, offering a lovely garnish that’s also delightful to taste. Iced Coffee: Pair with a chilled glass of iced coffee to contrast the dessert’s sweetness and add a refreshing caffeine kick. Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent touch, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, melting into the warm cheesecake to create a delightful creaminess. Nutty Crumble: A sprinkle of crushed almonds or pecans on top can add an unexpected yet welcomed texture, enhancing the overall eating experience. These pairings promise to amplify the flavors of your Banana Pudding Cheesecake while crafting an enchanting dessert spread your family and friends will adore. Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature. This helps to create a smooth, lump-free batter for your Banana Pudding Cheesecake. Water Bath Method: Using a water bath while baking prevents cracks and ensures even cooking. The moisture helps maintain a creamy texture throughout. Cool Gradually: Avoid opening the oven door during baking and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks. Chill Time Matters: Be patient and let your cheesecake chill for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, elevating your dessert experience. Crushed Wafer Garnish: For added crunch and visual appeal, be generous with the crushed Nilla Wafers on top of your dessert before serving. They enhance the overall texture and tie together the banana flavor. How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake Fridge: Store your Banana Pudding Cheesecake covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps retain its creamy and fresh flavors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of cheesecake without the topping. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer portions from the freezer to the fridge and let them thaw overnight for the best taste and texture. Reheating: If needed, serve cold, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging for a perfectly softened slice. Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of bananas should I use for the cheesecake? Absolutely! Use ripe bananas with a few brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor. They should feel soft when gently squeezed, ensuring they’ll blend nicely into the cheesecake filling. How should I store my Banana Pudding Cheesecake? I recommend covering your cheesecake with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just be sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors. Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake? Yes, you can! To freeze, slice your Banana Pudding Cheesecake without the whipped topping. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. What if my cheesecake cracks while baking? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! To prevent cracks, make sure to use a water bath during baking and avoid opening the oven door frequently. If it cracks, you can always cover it with the whipped topping, which not only hides imperfections but adds lusciousness to each bite. Is this cheesecake suitable for dietary restrictions? Yes! For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the Nilla Wafers with gluten-free cookies. If anyone in your family has dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for the whipped topping. Just keep an eye on the consistency while mixing, and adjust as needed! How long do I need to chill the cheesecake before serving? It’s essential to chill your Banana Pudding Cheesecake for at least 6 hours, though overnight is preferable. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheesecake to set properly, giving you that rich, creamy texture you’ll love. Decadent Banana Pudding Cheesecake You Can’t Resist This Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert featuring a buttery Nilla Wafer crust and fluffy topping, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsChilling Time 6 hours hrsTotal Time 8 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust2 cups Nilla Wafers Crushed1/4 cup Brown Sugar1/2 cup Unsalted Butter MeltedFor the Cheesecake Filling16 oz Cream Cheese Room temperature3/4 cup White Granulated Sugar1 tbsp Pure Vanilla Extract3 large Bananas Ripe, mashed1/2 cup Sour Cream1 cup Heavy Cream3 large Eggs Room temperatureFor the Whipped Topping1 pkg Instant Vanilla Pudding2 cups Milk1/2 cup Crushed Nilla Wafers For garnish Equipment Food processorMixing bowlspringform panOven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a food processor, blend Nilla Wafers until they become fine crumbs. Combine the crumbs with brown sugar and melted unsalted butter, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 11 minutes until golden and fragrant.In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar on high speed for about 2 minutes until smooth. Add mashed ripe bananas, pure vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, mixing until just lumpy. Gradually add the room temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed to keep the filling creamy without overmixing.Once the filling is ready, pour half of it over the baked Nilla Wafer crust, spreading it evenly. Next, layer sliced bananas and a sprinkle of crushed Nilla Wafers on top of the batter. Carefully pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the layers, ensuring an even distribution.To ensure even baking and prevent cracks, place a larger baking dish filled with hot water on the bottom rack of your oven. Place the cheesecake on the middle rack and bake for 80 to 90 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly when done. Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cake to cool for about 30 minutes.After the cheesecake cools, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it set for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.In a mixing bowl, beat together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until well combined.Once the cheesecake has chilled completely, gently remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate. Top the cheesecake generously with the whipped pudding mixture. Sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 6gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing. Chill the cheesecake for the best flavor and texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
