Hereโs a decadent, creamy dessert recipe for Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares โ a cross between classic banana pudding and rich cheesecake. ๐๐ฎ๐ง
๐ Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares
Ingredients (9ร13 pan)
For the crust
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (or crushed Nilla Wafers)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 6 tbsp butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
For the banana pudding layer
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding (3.4 oz)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 2โ3 ripe bananas, sliced
- Optional: 1 tsp banana extract for stronger banana flavor
For the topping
- 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip
- Additional wafer crumbs or banana slices for garnish
๐งโ๐ณ Instructions
1. Preheat oven
- Preheat to 325ยฐF (165ยฐC).
- Grease or line a 9ร13 pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the crust
- Mix wafer crumbs + sugar + melted butter.
- Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake 8โ10 minutes, then let cool.
3. Make the cheesecake layer
- Beat cream cheese + sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Stir in vanilla (and sour cream if using).
- Pour over cooled crust.
- Bake 25โ30 minutes, until just set.
- Let cool completely.
4. Prepare banana pudding layer
- Whisk together instant pudding + cold milk for 2 minutes.
- Layer sliced bananas over the cooled cheesecake.
- Pour pudding evenly on top.
5. Chill and top
- Refrigerate for 2โ4 hours (or overnight) to set.
- Spread whipped cream on top before serving.
- Garnish with extra wafer crumbs or banana slices.
โญ Tips
- Ripe bananas are key for flavor, but slice right before layering to prevent browning.
- Stronger banana flavor: Add 1 tsp banana extract to the pudding layer.
- Make-ahead: Can be prepared a day in advance โ flavors meld beautifully.
- Cutting squares: Chill well, then run a warm knife under hot water and wipe dry for clean edges.
If you want, I can also give you a mini cupcake version or a no-bake banana pudding cheesecake squares version for faster prep.