Name: Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h 25 min
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box Nilla Wafers; 2 TBSP Brown sugar, packed (light or dark); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted; 24 oz Cream cheese, room temperature; 3/4 cup White granulated sugar; 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract; 2 Bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup Sour cream, room temperature; 1/4 cup Heavy cream, room temperature; 4 Large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup Crushed Nilla Wafers; 2 Bananas, sliced thinly; 1 package Instant vanilla pudding (3.4 oz); 1 cup Milk, cold; 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract; 1 cup Heavy cream, cold; Crushed Nilla Wafers for decorating

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If you are craving a dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of classic banana pudding, this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute must-try. From the buttery, crunchy Nilla Wafer crust to the luscious banana cheesecake filling layered with slices of fresh banana and topped with whipped vanilla pudding, every bite captures the comforting essence of banana pudding in a delightfully elegant cheesecake form. It’s perfect for impressing friends at gatherings or simply treating yourself to a slice of sweet, dreamy bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a clear glass bowl, a thick, creamy mixture of pale yellow color fills the space with a smooth, soft texture. The mixture has a few gentle folds and light air bubbles on the surface, showing it was just stirred. A light wooden spatula with a flat edge is partially dipped into the creamy mixture, lifting some of it up. The background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is your first step toward creating this delightful Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from the crisp Nilla Wafer crust that provides a perfectly textured base to the creamy banana-infused cheesecake that’s the heart of this dessert, all crowned by the light and fluffy whipped vanilla pudding topping.

Nilla Wafers: The classic cookie creates a sweet, crumbly crust that’s both buttery and crisp.
Brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note that deepens the cookie crust’s flavor.
Unsalted butter: Binds the crust ingredients for a buttery, golden base.
Cream cheese: The creamy backbone of the cheesecake layer; make sure it’s room temperature for smooth mixing.
White granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling evenly.
Pure vanilla extract: Adds aromatic warmth to both the cheesecake and the whipped pudding.
Bananas (mashed and sliced): Fresh bananas provide natural sweetness and that unmistakable banana pudding flavor.
Sour cream: Adds tang and keeps the cheesecake rich yet light.
Heavy cream: Used both in the cheesecake batter and the whipped topping for ultimate creaminess.
Large eggs: Essential for structure and smooth texture in the cheesecake.
Instant vanilla pudding mix: Creates the luscious whipped vanilla pudding topping that finishes the dessert perfectly.
Milk: Helps set the pudding, making it silky and smooth.
Crushed Nilla Wafers: Sprinkled inside and on top for texture and extra crunch.

How to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Nilla Wafer Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325℉ and prepping a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper. Crush the Nilla Wafers finely using a food processor, then stir in the brown sugar and melted butter until everything combines into crumbly goodness. Press about half of this mixture into the bottom and up the sides of your pan using the bottom of a measuring cup to compact firmly. Bake for 11 minutes to set the crust, giving you that crisp, flavorful foundation.

Step 2: Make the Banana Cheesecake Filling

Using a mixer, beat the cream cheese and sugar on high speed until fluffy and smooth—about 2 minutes. Add in mashed bananas, vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, mixing on medium speed until blended but still slightly lumpy from the bananas; this texture is part of the charm! Add the eggs one at a time on low speed to prevent overmixing, then fold in the crushed Nilla Wafers gently.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake Layers

Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the baked crust, then layer with thin slices of fresh banana followed by a sprinkle of crushed Nilla Wafers. Top with the remaining batter, smoothing it evenly. This layering adds delightful bursts of texture and banana flavor throughout the cheesecake.

Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath

To ensure a silky, crack-free cheesecake, place the springform pan inside a larger pan containing hot water that comes halfway up the sides—either by wrapping the pan in foil or placing it in a cake pan first. Bake for 80 to 90 minutes until the cheesecake edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, prop the door open, and let the cheesecake rest for 30 minutes to cool slowly.

Step 5: Chill Thoroughly

Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and cool completely on a rack. Wrap it in foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight to fully set the flavors and texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Whipped Vanilla Pudding Topping

In a chilled bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk using a hand mixer for 2 minutes until thickened, then refrigerate. Beat the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture for a light, airy topping that complements the richness of the cheesecake beautifully.

Step 7: Top and Decorate

Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, peel off the parchment paper, and spread the whipped vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the top. Finish by sprinkling more crushed Nilla Wafers for that final touch of crunch and visual appeal.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

The image shows a round pie with four visible slices on a white plate with a white marbled surface below. The pie has a thick light brown crust at the bottom, followed by a smooth pale yellow layer. On top, there is a thick, creamy white layer with a soft texture. Each slice is decorated with banana slices and crushed light brown cookie crumbs scattered over the creamy top. There is a fork piercing one slice near the center, and on the side, a small plate holds a few fresh banana slices, while another plate contains some round, golden brown cookies. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The classic approach is to sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top, adding satisfying crunch to each bite. Consider adding thin banana slices or even a few dollops of fresh whipped cream for a gorgeous presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe shines best as the star of the show, but pairing it with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberry compote can add a zesty contrast to the creamy sweetness. A cup of rich coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine also enhances the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in clear dessert glasses for a layered parfait vibe combining crust, banana cheesecake, and pudding topping separately. Or garnish each slice with edible flowers or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra-special touch that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it stays fresh and decadent for up to 5 days, letting you enjoy this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe well beyond the initial serving.

Freezing

If you want to save some slices for later, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, making sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid heating. However, if you want to take the chill off slightly, let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for an ideal creamy texture without losing the fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I substitute the Nilla Wafers for another cookie?

Absolutely! While Nilla Wafers provide that classic banana pudding flavor, you can experiment with graham crackers or vanilla cookies if needed. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Do the bananas brown inside the cheesecake?

Because the bananas are layered within the batter and chilled promptly, they usually stay fresh and don’t brown significantly. Using ripe but firm bananas helps maintain their appearance and taste.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free vanilla cookies or wafers in place of the Nilla Wafers. Double-check your instant pudding mix is gluten-free as well to keep the dessert safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

Is it necessary to use a water bath for baking?

The water bath helps prevent cracks and provides even baking with a creamy texture, which is especially important for this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe. You can try baking without it, but expect a less smooth result.

Can I prepare parts of this cheesecake in advance?

Definitely! The crust and cheesecake filling can be made a day ahead and stored separately, then assembled and baked when ready. The whipped vanilla pudding topping is best made fresh before serving for optimum fluffiness.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe is a delightful twist that brings together the best of two beloved desserts into one spectacular creation. If you’re anything like me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again for every special occasion or whenever a sweet treat is calling your name. So go ahead, give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!