Description
These creamy bars combine cheesecake with banana pudding for an irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Nilla Wafers – Adds the signature vanilla flavor
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted – Helps bind the crust
- 2 tablespoons sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness
- Pinch of sea salt – Enhances flavors
- 1 1/2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened – Key ingredient for creaminess
- 1/2 cup sugar – Adds sweetness to the cheesecake layer
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping – Lightens the texture
- 1 (3.4-oz.) package instant banana pudding mix – Brings the banana flavor
- 1 3/4 cups whole milk – Blends with the pudding mix to create a creamy consistency
- Whipped topping – Adds a final creamy touch
- 1/2 banana, sliced – Provides a fresh banana flavor
- 9 Nilla Wafers – Adds a nostalgic and decorative touch
Instructions
- Start by crushing your Nilla Wafers to make the crust. You can do this using a food processor for quick results or, if you prefer, place them in a zip-lock bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs. Aim for a texture similar to sand; it should hold together well when pressed. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crushed wafers with melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of sea salt. Once mixed, line the bottom of your 8” x 8” pan with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. Press the crust mixture firmly into an even layer at the bottom of the prepared pan. For best results, place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, use either a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes fluffy and smooth. Once fluffy, gradually add in the sugar, blending it until fully combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and whole milk until it thickens. Allow the mixture to sit in the refrigerator for about three minutes.
- Starting with the thickened banana pudding, gently fold it into the earlier prepared cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Once fully combined, pour this filling over the frozen crust in your pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
- After assembling, place the pan in the freezer for at least four hours, or for the best results, leave it overnight. Once set, carefully remove the bars from the pan using the overhanging parchment paper. Slice them into 9 equal squares and garnish with whipped topping, a slice of banana, and a Nilla Wafer.
Notes
Use ripe bananas for the best flavor; they add natural sweetness! Keep these bars stored in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain their texture longer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 3 g