Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that beautifully combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the nostalgic sweetness of banana pudding, your search ends here! Introducing Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares, a delightful treat that perfectly balances layers of velvety cheesecake, luscious banana pudding, and a generous topping of whipped cream, all sitting atop a crunchy vanilla wafer crust. This dessert isn’t just eye-catching; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home.

These squares make for a show-stopping dessert that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Imagine unearthing a slice from the refrigerator, the aroma of bananas and cream wafting through the air, and seeing the layers of goodness stacked beautifully in front of you. This recipe results in twelve perfect squares, making it ideal for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this dish will impress everyone with its combination of textures and flavors. Get ready to be the star of your next potluck, birthday party, or family get-together with these Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares!

Ingredients

2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant banana pudding mix
1 1/2 cups cold milk
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup whipped cream
1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers

Instructions

Begin your delightful baking journey by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9-inch baking pan and generously grease it before lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are well-coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a solid crust. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

While the crust cools, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar together until smooth. Take your time, ensuring there are no lumps in the mixture. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract and sour cream into the mixture, blending until smooth and creamy.

Once the cheesecake filling is ready, pour it over the cooled crust and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. Bake this for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set when a toothpick is inserted. After baking, allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for around 30 minutes.

Next, it’s time to prepare the banana pudding layer. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. Once thick, gently spread the banana pudding over the cooled cheesecake layer, making sure to cover it evenly.

To elevate the flavors even further, arrange the sliced bananas over the pudding layer, spreading them out for an even distribution. Following that, take the whipped cream and spread it over the bananas, ensuring every banana slice is nestled under its fluffy layer. For the finishing touch, sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the top, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

Finally, cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for a minimum of 2 hours before cutting into squares and serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Variations

One of the best things about the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares is how versatile they can be! Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste:

Chocolate Lovers: Add a chocolate twist by drizzling melted chocolate over the whipped cream layer or using chocolate wafer crumbs for the crust.
Nuts about Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crust or sprinkle them on top for added crunch and flavor.
Fruit Medley: Mix other fruits like strawberries or blueberries with the banana slices for a colorful and delicious twist.
Caramel Delight: Drizzle a layer of caramel sauce over the cream cheese filling before adding the banana pudding layer for an indulgent caramel flavor.

Cooking Notes

When preparing your Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares, keep these notes in mind for the best results:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing, as this creates a smoother batter and helps it bake evenly.
Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the squares to sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours will help set the layers and make cutting them easier.
Baking Pan Size: If you’d like to double the recipe, consider using a 9×13-inch baking pan, keeping in mind to adjust baking times accordingly.
Storage: These squares can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep or ahead of a gathering.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are not only delicious on their own, but they also pair well with other treats. Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert experience. For added flair, garnish the squares with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cocoa powder just before serving.

Tips

Always sift your powdered sugar into the whipped cream to avoid lumps.
For added flavor, consider infusing your whipped cream with vanilla or almond extract.
If the whipped cream is too soft, chill it before whipping to achieve a firmer texture.
Keep your desserts looking fresh by layering up to 15 minutes before serving, if possible.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 300 per square

Protein: 5g

Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh bananas instead of instant banana pudding?

Using fresh bananas will change the texture and flavor of your squares. The instant pudding mix is designed to thicken and provide a creamy layer, while bananas will offer a fresh taste. You can use them, but consider balancing the consistency with more milk or other binding ingredients.

How long will Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares last in the fridge?

These delicious squares will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.

Can I freeze these cheesecake squares?

Yes, you can freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They will keep well for about 2 months; simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What’s the best way to cut the cheesecake squares?

For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This will help create neat, even pieces.

Can I use other flavors of pudding?

Absolutely! Feel free to try different flavors of instant pudding mix, such as vanilla, chocolate, or even almond, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Conclusion

In summary, these Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave a lasting impression at any gathering. Their unique combination of creamy cheesecake, rich banana pudding, and crunchy wafer crust creates a dessert that is both sophisticated and nostalgic. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or as an everyday treat, they are perfect for sharing—or savoring alone! If you’ve tried this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share it with friends who would love to indulge in these scrumptious squares!