Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bites are a fun and delicious twist on traditional banana pudding and cheesecake. With a base of crunchy cookie cups, these mini bites are filled with creamy cheesecake and topped with fresh banana slices, whipped cream, and crushed vanilla wafers. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a sweet snack, these bite-sized treats combine flavors of creamy cheesecake, banana pudding, and a buttery cookie crust, making each bite both refreshing and indulgent.
Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bites combine creamy cheesecake with the classic flavors of banana pudding, all in a crunchy cookie cup. Each mini bite is filled with a smooth cheesecake mixture, topped with fresh banana slices, whipped cream, and crushed vanilla wafers. These are perfect for parties or gatherings, providing a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of banana pudding and cheesecake in a bite-sized treat.
INGREDIENTS
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup, for cookie cups
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp, for leavening
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, to balance flavor
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened for cookie cups
- Brown sugar: 1/2 cup, for sweetness
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, for additional sweetness
- Egg: 1 large, for binding
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor
- Crushed vanilla wafers: 1 cup, for texture in cookie cups
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened for cheesecake filling
- Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup, for filling sweetness
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for filling flavor
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip): 1 cup, for filling lightness
- Bananas: 1-2 ripe, sliced for filling
- Additional whipped topping: for garnish
- Crushed vanilla wafers: for garnish
- Banana chips: for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 4:
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Fold in crushed vanilla wafers.
- Step 6:
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough into each muffin cup, pressing down to form a cup shape.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden. Allow to cool before removing from the tin.
- Step 8:
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Step 9:
- Add vanilla extract and mix well. Gently fold in whipped topping until fully incorporated.
- Step 10:
- Once cookie cups are cooled, fill each cup with cheesecake filling and top with banana slices.
- Step 11:
- Add a dollop of whipped topping, crushed vanilla wafers, and a banana chip on top.
- Step 12:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld together.
Serving and Storage Tips
- For the best flavor, serve the bites chilled.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Helpful Notes
- For extra flavor, add a bit of banana extract to the cheesecake filling.
- To prevent banana slices from browning, dip them in lemon juice before topping the cheesecake bites.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Tip: Use fresh, ripe bananas for the best flavor in the filling and topping.
- Chef Tip: Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon on top for added depth of flavor.
The Unique Appeal of Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bites
These mini bites are perfect for gatherings or as a fun twist on classic banana pudding and cheesecake. Their bite-sized form, delicious flavor, and beautiful presentation make them a standout dessert that’s sure to impress.
FAQs
Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of mini?
Yes, but adjust the baking time as needed, and note that this will yield fewer servings.
How do I keep the bananas from browning?
Dip the banana slices in lemon juice before adding to the cheesecake bites to slow browning.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, make them a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Add toppings just before serving for best results.
Summary
Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bites combine creamy cheesecake, fresh banana, and crunchy cookie cups in a mini dessert perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized treats are topped with whipped cream, crushed vanilla wafers, and banana chips for an extra touch of flavor and texture. A perfect balance of banana pudding and cheesecake in every bite!