Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars combine the velvety richness of cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding. These bars are a luscious dessert that is perfect for any occasion, offering layers of creamy cheesecake, banana pudding, and a buttery crust that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines two classic desserts into one irresistible treat.
- Easy to make and perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- A no-fuss dessert with simple ingredients that packs a big flavor punch.
- Perfect for preparing ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham crackers for the crust
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Bananas, ripe and sliced
- Instant banana pudding mix
- Milk
- Whipped topping or whipped cream
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth, then add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set. Allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the banana pudding according to the package instructions using milk.
- Spread the pudding over the cooled cheesecake layer, then layer the sliced bananas on top.
- Spread whipped topping over the bananas and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 bars (depending on the size of the slices)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: Approximately 5 hours
Variations
- Cookie Crust:Â Use vanilla wafer crumbs or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.
- Chocolate Twist:Â Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cheesecake and pudding layers.
- Extra Bananas:Â Add more banana slices for an even fruitier flavor.
- Nutty Crunch:Â Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the whipped topping for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:Â Keep the bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing:Â Freeze individual bars for up to 1 month. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating:Â These bars are best served cold and do not require reheating.
FAQs
How do I prevent the crust from falling apart?
Ensure you firmly press the crust into the pan, and chill it before adding the cheesecake layer to help it set.
Can I use fresh bananas instead of pudding mix?
Fresh bananas alone won’t provide the same creamy consistency as pudding, but you can add fresh banana puree to enhance the flavor.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust, and ensure the pudding mix is gluten-free.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making a day ahead as the flavors improve with chilling.
What can I substitute for whipped topping?
Use homemade whipped cream or stabilized whipped cream as an alternative.
How do I slice the bars neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut for clean edges.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
Can I use flavored graham crackers?
Yes, cinnamon or honey-flavored graham crackers work well with this recipe.
What type of bananas should I use?
Use ripe bananas with a few brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
Can I add other fruits?
Certainly! Strawberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries pair well with the banana pudding and cheesecake flavors.
Conclusion
Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds. With a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and the comforting flavors of banana pudding, this treat is sure to be a hit. Easy to prepare and perfect for making ahead, these bars are a versatile dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
PrintCreamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars
These creamy banana pudding cheesecake bars combine the classic flavors of banana pudding with the rich, tangy goodness of cheesecake. A buttery vanilla wafer crust holds a smooth banana-flavored cheesecake layer, all topped with a whipped cream layer and more wafer crumbles for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 50 wafers)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 small bananas)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Banana Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
- 1/2 cup vanilla wafer crumbs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the vanilla wafer crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture over the cooled crust and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Spread the pudding evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Add the Topping:
- Spread the whipped cream over the banana pudding layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining vanilla wafer crumbs on top for garnish.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra banana flavor, add a few slices of fresh banana between the cheesecake and pudding layers.
- These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.