Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of two classic desserts—creamy cheesecake and nostalgic banana pudding. These bars feature a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a rich banana pudding topping. The result is an indulgent and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The optional whipped cream and vanilla wafer garnish add a beautiful finishing touch, making these bars as visually appealing as they are delicious.

INGREDIENTS

• Vanilla wafer crumbs: 1 1/2 cups, for the crust
• Melted butter: 1/2 cup, to bind the crust
• Cream cheese, softened: 16 oz, for the cheesecake layer
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup, to sweeten the cheesecake
• Large eggs: 2, to bind the cheesecake layer
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for flavor
• Sour cream: 1/2 cup, for added richness
• Ripe bananas, mashed: 2, for a natural banana flavor
• Instant banana pudding mix (3.4 oz): 1 package, for the pudding topping
• Cold milk: 2 cups, to mix with the pudding
• Whipped cream (optional): for topping
• Additional vanilla wafers (optional): for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it.

Step 2:

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.

Step 3:

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.

Step 4:

Spread the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust.

Step 5:

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 6:

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.

Step 7:

If desired, top the bars with whipped cream and garnish with additional vanilla wafers. Slice and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a firmer texture, chill the bars overnight before serving.

Helpful Notes

• If you prefer a stronger banana flavor, add a few drops of banana extract to the cheesecake mixture.
• Make sure the cheesecake layer is fully chilled before adding the banana pudding to ensure clean layers.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Martha Stewart suggests using ripe bananas for a more pronounced banana flavor and natural sweetness.
• Chef Bobby Flay recommends toasting the vanilla wafer crumbs slightly before mixing with the butter to add a deeper flavor to the crust.

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Conclusion

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars bring together the best of two classic desserts. These bars start with a vanilla wafer crust, followed by a rich and creamy cheesecake layer, and then topped with smooth banana pudding. The result is a decadent and flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of bananas with the tang of cheesecake, all balanced by the buttery crunch of the crust. With optional whipped cream and extra vanilla wafers for garnish, these bars are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for parties or a comforting weekend treat!