Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Dreamy Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Recipe

A decadent banana pudding cheesecake bars creation that melts in your mouth with silky smooth perfection.

Memories of grandma’s classic desserts dance alongside modern culinary creativity in this irresistible treat.

Layers of rich cream cheese blend seamlessly with sweet banana essence, creating a dessert that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Cutting into these bars and revealing a luscious interior that promises pure indulgence.

Tender vanilla wafer crusts provide a delightful crunch against the velvety filling, making each bite a delectable experience.

Serious dessert lovers will appreciate how elegantly these bars balance comfort and sophistication.

You won’t be able to resist grabbing seconds of this crowd-pleasing delicacy that transforms an ordinary afternoon into a spectacular sweet moment.

Why Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Are So Good

  • Creamy Banana Bliss: Indulge in a heavenly dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the classic comfort of banana pudding, creating a mouthwatering treat that'll make your taste buds dance.
  • No-Fuss Layered Delight: Enjoy an easy-to-make dessert that requires minimal baking skills, with simple steps that come together quickly and impress everyone from kids to grown-ups.
  • Texture Party in Your Mouth: Experience a symphony of textures from the crispy vanilla wafer crust to the smooth, velvety cheesecake and creamy pudding layers, topped with soft whipped cream and fresh banana slices.
  • Make-Ahead Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or make-ahead desserts that can be prepared in advance and chilled until you're ready to wow your guests with a show-stopping sweet treat.

Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Ingredient List

Crust Ingredients:
  • Vanilla Wafer Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet, crunchy foundation for the bars.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust and adds rich flavor, best when melted and completely mixed.
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The creamy heart of the dessert, creates a smooth and tangy base.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the cream cheese's tanginess.
  • Large Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake layer together.
  • Ripe Bananas: Fresh, soft bananas add natural sweetness and authentic banana flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
Topping and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Banana Pudding Mix: Instant mix creates a quick and smooth banana-flavored layer.
  • Cold Milk: Activates the pudding mix and creates a creamy consistency.
  • Whipped Topping: Adds a light, fluffy texture to the top of the bars.
  • Fresh Bananas: Provides a fresh garnish and extra banana flavor.
  • Crushed Vanilla Wafers: Adds a nostalgic crunch and decorative element to the bars.

How To Whip Up Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Craft the Crumbly Base

Kick off this delightful dessert adventure by warming up your oven to a cozy 350F (175C). Grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy lifting later.

  • Vanilla wafer crumbs
  • Melted butter

Combine these ingredients in a bowl, pressing the mixture down firmly into the dish. Pop it in the oven for 8-10 minutes until it looks golden. Let it cool down completely while you prep the next layer.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Magic

Grab your mixer and get ready to create something incredible!

  • Cream cheese
  • Sugar
  • Eggs
  • Ripe bananas
  • Vanilla extract

Beat the cream cheese and sugar until they become smooth and dreamy. Add eggs one by one, mixing gently. Mash those bananas and stir them in with the vanilla extract. Pour this luscious mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the center looks just set. Let it cool completely.

Step 3: Create the Banana Pudding Dream

Time to add some creamy goodness!

  • Banana pudding mix
  • Cold milk
  • Whipped topping

Whisk the pudding mix and milk together until it thickens up nicely. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth as silk. Carefully spread this layer over the cooled cheesecake.

Step 4: Chill and Embellish

Slide the dish into the refrigerator and let it rest for at least 4 hours. When you’re ready to serve, go wild with toppings:
  • Whipped cream
  • Fresh banana slices
  • Crushed vanilla wafers

Sprinkle these goodies on top to create a dessert that’ll make everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips For Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars That Wow

  • Crush Wafers Perfectly: Use a food processor or rolling pin to create fine, even crumbs for a more uniform and compact crust that holds together beautifully.
  • Prevent Banana Browning: Toss freshly sliced bananas with a little lemon juice to keep them looking bright and prevent quick discoloration when topping the dessert.
  • Achieve Smooth Cheesecake: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature and beat ingredients slowly to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking during baking.
  • Slice Like a Pro: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts for perfectly smooth, clean edges when serving the bars.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Swap vanilla wafer crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

Store And Reheat Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Right

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent moisture and protect the creamy texture.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen bars maintain their quality for 23 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
  • Reheat: These bars are best served chilled. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to prevent separating the layers or losing the creamy consistency.
  • Quick Tip: For the freshest taste, consume within 3 days of preparation. The banana pudding layer may start to separate if stored longer than recommended.

Great Pairings For Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

  • Pair with Creamy Coffee: Complement the rich, sweet cheesecake bars with a smooth latte or cappuccino. The coffee's warmth and subtle bitterness balance the dessert's sweetness perfectly.
  • Match with Caramel Liqueur: Elevate the experience with a chilled shot of caramel-flavored liqueur. Its buttery, smooth notes enhance the banana and creamy textures of the bars.
  • Serve with Banana Smoothie: Create a refreshing side drink by blending fresh bananas, milk, and a touch of honey. The smoothie echoes the dessert's banana flavor while providing a cool, light contrast.
  • Enjoy with Vanilla Chai Tea: The spicy-sweet profile of chai tea beautifully complements the creamy, banana-infused cheesecake bars, offering a delightful aromatic pairing.

Change Up Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars With These

  • Tropical Banana Bliss: Swap vanilla wafers with coconut cookie crumbs and add toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Banana Dream: Mix melted chocolate into the cheesecake layer and sprinkle chocolate shavings over the final pudding layer for a rich chocolate-banana combination.
  • Nutty Banana Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust and garnish with nut brittle for added texture and nutty depth.
  • Caramel Banana Indulgence: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the finished bars and sprinkle sea salt to create a salted caramel banana experience.

Answers About Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

  • What makes these Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars special?

These bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic comfort of banana pudding, creating a delightful dessert that blends two beloved treats into one irresistible recipe.

  • Can I use fresh bananas instead of mashed bananas in the cheesecake layer?

Yes! Ripe, well-mashed bananas work best. Make sure they’re very soft and thoroughly mashed to ensure a smooth cheesecake texture and even banana flavor throughout the layer.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these bars?

Not at all! Just a 9×9-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, and standard baking tools are all you’ll need. The recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any complicated kitchen gadgets.

  • How can I tell if the cheesecake layer is fully baked?

The cheesecake is done when the center is just set and slightly jiggly. It shouldn’t look wet or liquid, but should have a soft, custard-like consistency when gently shaken.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars blend Southern comfort with creamy cheesecake decadence, marrying classic dessert flavors in one irresistible treat. Silky layers and rich textures promise a delightful escape that will transport you to a world of sweet, nostalgic bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (453 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 1 medium banana)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup granulated sugar

Crust Ingredients:

  • 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 50 wafers)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Topping and Filling Ingredients:

  • 1 package (3.4 ounces/96 grams) instant banana pudding mix
  • 1 ¾ cups cold milk
  • 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Sliced bananas
  • Crushed vanilla wafers

Instructions

  1. Create a sturdy foundation by combining crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter, pressing the mixture into a parchment-lined baking dish. Gently toast the crust in a preheated oven until it turns a delicate golden hue, then allow it to cool completely.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar until achieving a velvety smooth consistency. Incorporate eggs gradually, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next. Fold in ripe, velvety mashed bananas and aromatic vanilla extract.
  3. Carefully pour the luxurious cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a gentle touch. Bake until the center sets with a subtle jiggle, indicating perfect doneness.
  4. Craft the luscious banana pudding layer by whisking pudding mix with cold milk until it reaches a thick, creamy texture. Gently fold in fluffy whipped topping to create a silky, cloud-like mixture.
  5. Lavish the cooled cheesecake with the pudding layer, spreading it with precision to create a uniform surface.
  6. Refrigerate the dessert for several hours, allowing the layers to meld and set into a harmonious masterpiece.
  7. Just before serving, embellish with dollops of whipped cream, delicate banana slices, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for a stunning presentation that promises to delight the senses.

Notes

  • Softening cream cheese at room temperature ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer that blends perfectly with banana flavors.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter to prevent air bubbles and a cracked surface, which can happen when eggs are incorporated too vigorously.
  • Use very ripe, almost brown bananas for maximum sweetness and intense banana flavor that will elevate the entire dessert.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap vanilla wafer crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to maintain the crunchy base texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star