Description

This Banana Pudding Cheesecake combines the nostalgic comfort of banana pudding with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake in one foolproof dessert. Perfect for busy days and even better the next day, it’s topped with whipped cream, banana slices, and crunchy Nilla wafers.

Ingredients

For the Nilla Wafer Crust:

3 cups whole Nilla wafers, crushed

¼ cup granulated sugar (50 grams)

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (70 grams)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

Four packages (32 oz total, about 905 grams) cream cheese, room temperature

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas; 250 grams)

½ cup full-fat sour cream

1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)

1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana cream pudding mix (dry)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

4 large eggs, room temperature

Optional Toppings:

2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping

1 to 2 bananas, sliced

10 to 20 whole Nilla wafers

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and wrap the outside with foil.

2. Crush Nilla wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor or bag and rolling pin. Mix with sugar and melted butter.

3. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.

4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat again.

5. Mix in mashed bananas, sour cream, dry pudding mix, and vanilla extract until smooth.

6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly until just combined.

7. Pour the filling over the crust. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.

8. Place pan into a roasting pan and pour in hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.

9. Bake for 60–80 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly wobbly.

10. Turn off oven, crack the door, and cool cheesecake inside for 1 hour.

11. Remove cheesecake from water bath, cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

12. Before serving, top with whipped cream, banana slices, and Nilla wafers.

Notes

Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.

Wrap the springform pan with 2 layers of foil to avoid water leakage.

Don’t overmix the batter to prevent cracking.

Let cheesecake chill overnight for best results.

Toss banana slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Cheesecake Recipe
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American