Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

These Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars combine the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding with the rich creaminess of cheesecake, all in a convenient bar form. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake dessert is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. The crust is made from crushed Nilla Wafers mixed with melted butter, providing a deliciously crunchy base. The filling is a luscious blend of softened cream cheese, sugar, whipped topping, and banana pudding mix, creating a rich and flavorful center. After freezing, the bars are topped with more whipped topping, a fresh slice of banana, and a Nilla Wafer for a delightful finish.

• Crushed Nilla Wafers: 1 1/2 cups
• Butter: 5 tbsp, melted
• Sugar: 2 tbsp
• Sea salt: Pinch
• Cream cheese: 12 oz (1 1/2 blocks), softened
• Sugar: 1/2 cup
• Whipped topping: 1 1/2 cups (for filling)
• Instant banana pudding mix: 1 (3.4 oz) package
• Whole milk: 1 3/4 cups
• Whipped topping: For garnish
• Banana: 1/2, sliced (for topping)
• Nilla Wafers: 9 (for topping)

Step 1:

Line an 8"x8" pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, mix crushed Nilla Wafers, melted butter, sugar, and sea salt until combined.

Step 3:

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Freeze while preparing the filling.

Step 4:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Add the sugar and mix until well combined.

Step 5:

Gently fold in the whipped topping and set aside.

Step 6:

In another bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and milk until thickened. Refrigerate for 3 minutes to set.

Step 7:

Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.

Step 8:

Spread the filling evenly over the prepared crust. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.

Step 9:

Once set, slice into 9 squares. Top each square with a dollop of whipped topping, a slice of banana, and a Nilla Wafer.

• For a neat presentation, ensure the bars are fully frozen before slicing.
• Store any leftovers in the freezer to maintain the bars' firmness.

• For a richer banana flavor, add a few drops of banana extract to the filling mixture.
• You can use graham cracker crumbs in place of Nilla Wafers for a different twist on the crust.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Lisa suggests drizzling melted chocolate over the bars before serving for a decadent finish.
• Chef Ryan recommends adding a layer of sliced bananas between the crust and filling for an extra burst of flavor.

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