Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars
Indulge in the sweet layers of joy with these Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars. This delightful dessert combines a creamy cheesecake base with layers of rich banana pudding and fresh fruit, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They bring together the classic flavors of strawberries and bananas in a unique way. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just as a fun family treat. Plus, you can make it ahead of time and chill it in the fridge, making it a convenient choice for busy days.
How to Make Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- Crushed graham crackers (for garnish)
- Fresh banana slices (for garnish)
- Fresh strawberry slices (for garnish)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside to cool.
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until combined. Mix in eggs one at a time, then stir in heavy cream and sour cream until incorporated. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
-
Whisk together banana pudding mix, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the chilled cheesecake layer, then arrange sliced bananas on top.
-
In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries, strawberry jam, and lemon juice. Spoon over the banana pudding layer. Garnish with crushed graham crackers and additional banana and strawberry slices.
-
Slice into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars
Serve these cheesecake bars chilled, and you can add extra banana and strawberry slices on top for a beautiful presentation. Great options include pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added delight!
How to Store Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars
Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the banana pudding layer to avoid melting.
- Don’t skip letting the bars chill in the fridge; this helps them set properly and enhances the flavors.
Variation
You can change the fruit toppings depending on your taste! Consider using blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches instead of strawberries and bananas for a delicious twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different.
2. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
3. How long should I chill the bars before serving?
It’s best to chill the bars for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best flavor and texture.
Enjoy making and sharing these Strawberry Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars!
