Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - Vanilla wafer crumbs: 1 1/2 cups.
02 - Melted butter: 1/2 cup.
03 - Cream cheese, softened: 16 oz.
04 - Granulated sugar: 1 cup.
05 - Large eggs: 2.
06 - Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon.
07 - Sour cream: 1/2 cup.
08 - Ripe bananas, mashed: 2.
09 - Instant banana pudding mix (3.4 oz): 1 package.
10 - Cold milk: 2 cups.
11 - Whipped cream (optional).
12 - Additional vanilla wafers for garnish (optional).

Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it.
02 - In a bowl, mix the vanilla wafer crumbs with the melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust, then bake for 10 minutes.
03 - In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
04 - Spread the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust.
05 - Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
06 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
07 - If desired, top the bars with whipped cream and garnish with additional vanilla wafers. Slice and serve.

Notes:

01 - These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy texture of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of banana pudding, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion.