Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Banana Pudding Layer:

• 1 (5 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Sliced bananas
• Crushed vanilla wafers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a medium bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are moistened.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
   • Mix in the flour, then add the mashed bananas and heavy cream. Beat until everything is thoroughly mixed.
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
   • After the hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
4. Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
   • Spread the banana pudding over the chilled cheesecake, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread the whipped cream over the banana pudding layer.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers just before serving.
   • Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice, and enjoy!

This Banana Pudding Cheesecake combines the creamy, rich flavor of cheesecake with the nostalgic taste of banana pudding, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion.