There’s something magical about the combination of creamy banana pudding and rich cheesecake. Imagine a luscious, velvety slice of Banana Pudding Cheesecake that dances on your taste buds like a cha-cha at a summer BBQ. Each forkful delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, leaving you craving more. This dessert isn’t just an indulgence; it’s an experience that whisks you away to sunny memories with every bite. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
As you prepare this delectable treat, picture yourself at a family gathering, laughter echoing in the background, and kids running around with sticky fingers. The moment someone takes a bite of your Banana Pudding Cheesecake, you’ll witness their eyes widen in delight—a reaction worth every bit of effort. It’s the ideal dessert for potlucks, birthday parties, or simply a sweet escape on a Wednesday afternoon.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Banana Pudding Cheesecake is easy to make, even for beginner bakers
- Its flavor profile combines creamy cheesecake with classic banana pudding for an unforgettable taste
- The visual appeal is stunning with layers of golden bananas and whipped cream
- Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant celebration
I fondly recall my cousin’s wedding where I showcased this Banana Pudding Cheesecake. The delighted gasps when guests took their first bites are still fresh in my memory.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a buttery crust that holds together beautifully.
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Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust ingredients and adds richness to the flavor.
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Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for that luxurious creaminess that makes every bite divine.
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Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and moistness to the cheesecake filling. Full-fat is preferred for better texture.
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Granulated Sugar: Balances out the tanginess while enhancing the overall sweetness of the cheesecake.
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Vanilla Extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract to elevate your flavors with its aromatic essence.
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Bananas: Ripe bananas not only add natural sweetness but also bring that signature banana flavor everyone loves.
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Whipped Cream: For topping, homemade whipped cream adds lightness—store-bought can work if you’re in a pinch.
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Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This helps set the banana layer while intensifying that classic pudding flavor we crave.
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Milk: Whole milk is best for mixing with the pudding; it contributes to that creamy consistency.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Bake the Crust: Place crust in preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar while continuing to mix until fully combined.
Add Sour Cream and Vanilla: Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. Use a spatula to scrape down sides as needed.
Combine Bananas and Pudding Mixes: Slice bananas into small pieces then fold them into your mixture along with instant vanilla pudding mix. This adds both flavor and helps thicken your filling.
Bake the Cheesecake Layer**: Pour filling over cooled crust in your springform pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly when moved. Let cool at room temperature before chilling in refrigerator for at least four hours.
Enjoy each step as you create this delightful dessert! Remember, patience is key when waiting for it to chill—good things come to those who wait!
You Must Know
- This Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and classic banana pudding
- The smooth texture and sweet banana flavor create a dessert that makes everyone smile
- It’s perfect for gatherings, and you can make it ahead for stress-free entertaining
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust while the oven preheats. Next, whip up the cheesecake filling, then layer it with banana pudding before baking to ensure all flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vanilla wafers for graham crackers or add chocolate chips for a delicious twist. A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile, too.
Storing & Reheating
Store the Banana Pudding Cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For best results, enjoy it cold without reheating to preserve its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making this Banana Pudding Cheesecake, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing
- Always slice bananas just before serving to prevent browning
- Adding whipped cream on top gives it a lovely finish and extra creaminess
I remember the first time I made this Banana Pudding Cheesecake; my friends devoured it in minutes! Their compliments were so heartwarming that I knew this recipe was a keeper.
FAQ
Can I use fresh bananas instead of dried ones?
Yes, fresh bananas add great flavor but should be added just before serving.
How long does this cheesecake last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days when stored properly.
Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture may change once thawed.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Experience the delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and classic banana pudding with this Banana Pudding Cheesecake. Each slice offers a velvety texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it an unforgettable dessert for any occasion. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this indulgent treat will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
- 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes until slightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar while mixing until combined.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Fold in sliced bananas and pudding mix to thicken the filling.
- Pour the mixture over the cooled crust and bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least four hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers or sprinkle cinnamon on top. Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Slice bananas just before serving to prevent browning.