This Ultimate Banana Pudding Cheesecake Delight is the ultimate mashup dessert β rich, creamy cheesecake meets the nostalgic comfort of classic banana pudding. With layers of vanilla wafers, sweet bananas, a velvety cheesecake center, and a luscious banana pudding topping, this no-bake beauty is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime indulgence.
β± Prep Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 6β8 hours or overnight
- Total Time: ~8.5 hours
- Servings: 12β14 slices
π½ Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor (optional, for crust)
- Plastic wrap or foil
π§Ύ Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 Β½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- ΒΎ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced thin
For the Banana Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
- 1 Β½ cups cold milk
- Β½ cup sour cream
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (more for garnish if desired)
For Garnish (optional):
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- Banana slices (add right before serving to avoid browning)
- Whipped topping
π Ingredient Notes
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat for best texture; make sure itβs room temp to avoid lumps.
- Vanilla Wafers: Nilla Wafers are the classic choice, but you can sub graham crackers or Biscoff cookies.
- Bananas: Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy layers.
- Instant Pudding: Use the instant kind, not cook & serve.
- Whipped Topping: You can use homemade whipped cream instead β use ~3 cups.
π©βπ³ Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Combine crushed vanilla wafers, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare Cheesecake Layer
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold in whipped topping until combined.
- Layer sliced bananas over the crust.
- Spread cheesecake mixture evenly over bananas.
- Chill while making the pudding.
3. Banana Pudding Layer
- Whisk together banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in sour cream and fold in whipped topping.
- Spread over the cheesecake layer.
4. Chill & Garnish
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, garnish with extra whipped topping, crushed wafers, and fresh banana slices (optional).
π₯ Nutrition Facts (per slice, estimated for 12 slices)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Sugars | 22g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
π‘ Tips & Variations
β Tips:
- Prevent Browning: Add banana slices just before serving or toss in lemon juice to reduce browning.
- Clean Slices: Run a sharp knife under hot water between cuts for clean slices.
- Firm Texture: Donβt skimp on chill time β it needs hours to set properly.
π Variations:
- Make it Mini: Use cupcake liners in a muffin tin for individual servings.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top before serving.
- Peanut Butter Banana: Swirl in ΒΌ cup peanut butter into the cheesecake layer for a delicious PB & banana combo.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese, coconut whipped topping, almond milk, and plant-based cookies.