Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe
Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines two beloved treats into one creamy and delicious dish. With layers of rich cheesecake and sweet banana pudding, this cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s perfect for any occasion or just a satisfying way to end a meal.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Banana Pudding Cheesecake! First, the blend of creamy cheesecake and fresh bananas creates a unique flavor that is both sweet and comforting. Second, it’s a fantastic way to use ripe bananas that you might have lying around. Finally, this cheesecake is easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward steps, so you can whip it up with confidence!
How to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer cookies, crushed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vanilla wafer crumbs
- Banana slices for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafer cookies, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add the sugar and vanilla, and mix together. Add the eggs one by one, blending well after each. Then, mix in the sour cream, mashed bananas, heavy cream, and flour until everything is well combined. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour to prevent cracking. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Make the Topping. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake. Top with vanilla wafer crumbs and banana slices.
Tips: For added banana flavor, swirl some mashed bananas into the filling before baking. Decorate the top with extra crumbs and banana slices before serving. Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and add the topping just before serving.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Serve Banana Pudding Cheesecake chilled. You can slice it into pieces and place them on dessert plates. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel can make it even more special. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful treat.
How to Store Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Store any leftover Banana Pudding Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake without the topping for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well!
Tips to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is soft; this helps ensure a smooth filling.
- Don’t skip the chilling time; it helps the cheesecake set properly.
- If you want, you can add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for extra flavor.
- Be careful when opening the oven door while the cheesecake cools; sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.
Variation
For a chocolate twist, add chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling or use chocolate wafer cookies for the crust. You can also try using different flavors of pudding or nuts for a crunchy topping.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake is perfect for making a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
2. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle when you shake the pan gently.
3. Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
Yes! You can use mashed strawberries or peaches for a fruity twist. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness as needed.
Enjoy your Banana Pudding Cheesecake! It’s a sweet treat that everyone will love!
