New York Style Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Banana pudding and cheesecake come together in this delicious dessert known as New York Style Banana Pudding Cheesecake. It captures the creamy texture of cheesecake and the sweet, comforting flavor of banana pudding. Perfect for any special occasion or just a sweet treat at home, this dessert is bound to become a crowd favorite!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those who love both cheesecake and banana pudding. It’s an easy way to impress friends and family, with the combination of flavors and textures creating a memorable dessert experience. Plus, it’s a fun recipe to make, and everyone will enjoy a slice!
How to Make New York Style Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Making this cheesecake is simple and enjoyable. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to share.
Ingredients
- 1 1⁄2 cups crushed Nilla Wafers
- 1⁄4 cup melted butter
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1⁄2 cups cold milk
- Sliced bananas
- Whipped cream or drizzle of condensed milk
- Crushed Nilla Wafers and Chessmen cookies
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed Nilla Wafers with melted butter until it looks like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool while you make the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the mashed bananas and mix well. Beat in the eggs one by one, making sure each one is fully mixed in before adding the next. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour until everything is smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour, or until the center is almost set and jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Step 4: Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer.
In a medium bowl, whisk the banana pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens (about 2-3 minutes). Spread this layer evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5: Decorate with Toppings.
Top the cheesecake with sliced bananas, crushed Nilla Wafers, and Chessmen cookies. You can also add a drizzle of condensed milk or a swirl of whipped cream for extra sweetness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy.
Slice into this creamy dessert and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors!
Pro Tips:
- To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water on the oven rack below the cheesecake.
- Add banana slices and toppings just before serving to keep them fresh.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Serve New York Style Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Serve slices of this cheesecake chilled, garnished with whipped cream or condensed milk. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
How to Store New York Style Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Keep the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it without toppings. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge and add your toppings.
Tips to Make New York Style Banana Pudding Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for a smooth batter.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- For a lighter cheesecake, you can use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
Variation
For chocolate lovers, consider adding chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling or using chocolate cookies for the crust!
FAQs
1. Can I use real banana pudding instead of instant pudding mix?
Yes! You can make a homemade banana pudding and layer it on top instead of using instant pudding mix.
2. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I substitute other cookies for the crust?
Yes, you can use graham crackers or any other cookie you like for the crust. Just crush them and mix with melted butter as you would with Nilla Wafers.
Enjoy making this scrumptious New York Style Banana Pudding Cheesecake! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.
