By Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars is a comfort-food classic made simpler for home cooks. With everyday ingredients and reliable technique, it delivers big flavor with little effort.
Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars captures the essence of desserts|cakes while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups (150g) crushed Nilla wafers or graham crackers
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter (melted)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
2 (8 oz/225g each) packages cream cheese (softened)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
2-3 ripe bananas (sliced)
For the Banana Pudding Topping:
1 (3.4 oz/95g) package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups (480ml) whole milk
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (whipped to stiff peaks)
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Nilla wafers or banana slices for garnish
PREPARATION STEPS
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Nilla wafers or graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
Gently fold in the sliced bananas.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly golden.
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Banana Pudding Topping:
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk until the pudding starts to thicken (about 2 minutes).
Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
Spread the banana pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with additional Nilla wafers or banana slices if desired.
Cut into bars and serve chilled.
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 55 min | Servings: 12 | Calories: ~320 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Coffee; Tea; Vanilla ice cream; Fresh berries
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
