Name: Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 80 min
Total time: 110 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups vanilla wafer crumbs.; ¼ cup granulated sugar.; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted.; 24 oz cream cheese, softened.; 1 cup granulated sugar.; 3 large eggs.; 1 tsp vanilla extract.; 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas).; ½ cup sour cream.; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix.; 2 cups cold milk.; 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced.; ¼ cup granulated sugar.; 1 tbsp lemon juice.; 1 tbsp cornstarch.; 2 tbsp water.

Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake is a decadent combination of creamy banana cheesecake, rich banana pudding, and a sweet strawberry topping. This dessert starts with a vanilla wafer crust, followed by a layer of banana-flavored cheesecake. It’s topped with a thick layer of banana pudding and a fresh, homemade strawberry sauce. Perfect for gatherings, this cheesecake is not only visually stunning but also full of delightful flavors that blend perfectly together.

This Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake is a truly decadent dessert that combines the rich creaminess of banana cheesecake, the sweet flavor of banana pudding, and a fresh strawberry topping. The cheesecake starts with a vanilla wafer crust, adding a hint of sweetness and crunch. The filling is made with ripe bananas, cream cheese, and sour cream, giving it a soft, velvety texture. The banana pudding layer adds a smooth, rich flavor, while the fresh strawberry topping adds a burst of sweetness and a touch of tartness. This layered cheesecake is perfect for impressing your guests at gatherings or special occasions.

INGREDIENTS

For the Crust

Vanilla wafer crumbs: 1½ cups, for a sweet, crunchy base.
Granulated sugar: ¼ cup, to sweeten the crust.
Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted, to bind the crust together.

For the Cheesecake Filling

Cream cheese: 24 oz, softened, for a creamy base.
Granulated sugar: 1 cup, to sweeten the filling.
Eggs: 3 large, to help set the filling.
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for added flavor.
Mashed ripe bananas: 1 cup (about 2 bananas), for banana flavor.
Sour cream: ½ cup, for extra creaminess.

For the Banana Pudding Layer

Instant banana pudding mix: 1 package (3.4 oz), to add a rich banana layer.
Cold milk: 2 cups, to prepare the pudding mix.

For the Strawberry Topping

Fresh strawberries: 1 lb, hulled and sliced, for a sweet, fruity topping.
Granulated sugar: ¼ cup, to sweeten the strawberries.
Lemon juice: 1 tbsp, for brightness and balance.
Cornstarch: 1 tbsp, to thicken the strawberry topping.
Water: 2 tbsp, to dissolve the cornstarch.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix 1½ cups vanilla wafer crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
Step 2:: In a large bowl, beat 24 oz softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add 3 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup mashed bananas, and ½ cup sour cream. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 60-70 minutes.
Step 3:: Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Step 4:: In a bowl, whisk 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix with 2 cups cold milk until thickened. Spread the pudding over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5:: In a saucepan, cook 1 lb sliced strawberries, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice over medium heat until softened. Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water, then stir into the strawberry mixture. Cook until thickened. Let cool, then spread over the pudding layer.
Step 6:: Refrigerate the cheesecake for an additional hour before serving. Slice and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

This cheesecake is best served chilled. Make sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours before slicing.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Helpful Notes

Ensure the cheesecake cools completely before adding the banana pudding layer to maintain a firm texture.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Allison recommends using fresh, ripe bananas for the best flavor in the cheesecake layer.

How to Make the Perfect Cheesecake

To achieve the perfect texture, use room temperature ingredients, particularly the cream cheese and eggs. Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Be sure to let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for the topping, but be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, a graham cracker crust can be used as an alternative to the vanilla wafer crust.

Summary

Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake is a creamy, multi-layered dessert that brings together the flavors of banana cheesecake, banana pudding, and a fresh strawberry topping. With a vanilla wafer crust, this decadent cheesecake is perfect for gatherings or special occasions. The combination of ripe bananas, creamy cheesecake, and sweet strawberries makes it a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your guests!