Banana Cheesecake with Banana Cream Pie Topping

Alright, banana lovers—this one’s for you. Banana Cheesecake with Banana Cream Pie Topping is the dessert you never knew you needed… but once you try it, there’s no going back. It’s a mashup of two dreamy classics: ultra-creamy banana-infused cheesecake meets the nostalgic sweetness of banana cream pie, all nestled on a buttery cookie crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream, fresh banana slices, and a little sprinkle of magic (a.k.a. crushed cookies or vanilla wafers).

This dessert is smooth, rich, and bursting with banana flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or just a random Tuesday when you’re craving something indulgent. Trust me, this one’s a showstopper—and a total comfort-food vibe.

Why You’ll Love Banana Cheesecake with Banana Cream Pie Topping

This is the kind of dessert that makes people close their eyes and say “mmmmm” after the first bite. Here’s why it’s a crowd-favorite:

Double Banana Bliss: Between the banana-infused cheesecake and the banana cream topping, this dessert is packed with banana flavor—without being overpowering.
Velvety Texture: The cheesecake is smooth and luscious, while the topping is light and airy—it’s the best of both worlds.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: You can make it a day (or two) ahead, and it actually tastes even better after chilling.
Eye-Catching Presentation: Pile on those banana slices and whipped topping, and you’ve got a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes.
Sweet, Crunchy Crust: The cookie crust adds a buttery crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling. Think graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even golden Oreos.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Banana Cheesecake with Banana Cream Pie Topping

Let’s break down the layers of goodness that make up this masterpiece:

For the Crust:

• Vanilla Wafer Crumbs or Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of your cheesecake—sweet, crunchy, and buttery.
• Butter: Helps bind the crumbs and gives the crust that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sugar: Just a little to sweeten the deal.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream Cheese: The star of any great cheesecake—rich, creamy, and slightly tangy.
• Mashed Bananas: For that fresh banana flavor throughout the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Balances the tanginess and brings everything together.
• Eggs: Help give structure and silkiness to the filling.
• Sour Cream: Adds a subtle tang and smooth texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Cornstarch or Flour: A little thickener to help the cheesecake set just right.

For the Banana Cream Pie Topping:

• Banana Pudding Mix (instant): The base for the creamy topping—easy and flavorful.
• Milk: To mix with the pudding and create a luscious texture.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: For that light, whipped topping feel.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream just enough.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash for extra flavor.
• Fresh Banana Slices: For garnish and that classic banana cream pie look.
• Crushed Vanilla Wafers or Cookies: A crunchy topping that makes every bite better.

Instructions

Let’s get into the fun part—making this dreamy dessert:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix the cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you make the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined. Then add mashed bananas, sour cream, vanilla, and cornstarch or flour. Beat until smooth and creamy. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined—don’t overmix!

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then transfer to the fridge to chill completely—at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.

Make the Banana Cream Topping

Whisk together the pudding mix and milk until thickened. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding to create a fluffy topping.

Assemble the Topping

Spread the banana cream mixture over the chilled cheesecake. Top with fresh banana slices and a generous sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers or cookies.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice, serve, and watch everyone fall in love. The creamy filling, dreamy topping, and sweet banana flavor are pure perfection.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
Chill Time: 4+ hours
Total Time: [Total time needed]

How to Serve Banana Cheesecake with Banana Cream Pie Topping

This show-stopping dessert can be served up in so many fun ways:

Simple and Classic: Slice and serve chilled straight from the fridge—it’s rich, creamy, and refreshing.
Extra Fancy: Drizzle with caramel or white chocolate sauce for a restaurant-style presentation.
Mini Versions: Make it in muffin tins with cupcake liners for adorable individual servings.
Brunch Table Favorite: It doubles as a sweet addition to brunch—because bananas and cream are totally brunch-worthy, right?

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: This cheesecake is even better after a day in the fridge, so it’s perfect to prep ahead for gatherings.
Banana Browning Hack: Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding them as garnish to keep them fresh and pretty.
Crust Swap: Want to mix things up? Use golden Oreos or even shortbread cookies instead of vanilla wafers.
Chill Time Is Key: Don’t rush the chill! Letting the cheesecake set properly gives it that perfect, sliceable texture.
Store Leftovers Right: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh bananas in the topping instead of pudding?
A1: You can, but the banana pudding adds more flavor and stability. Fresh bananas alone might turn brown and get mushy.

Q2: What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A2: A deep pie dish can work in a pinch, but a springform pan is best for clean, easy slicing.

Q3: Can I freeze this cheesecake?
A3: Yes! Freeze the cheesecake without the topping. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge and add the topping fresh.

Q4: How do I keep banana slices from turning brown?
A4: Lightly toss them with lemon juice or pineapple juice to slow browning.

Q5: Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
A5: You sure can! It saves time and works just fine if you’re in a hurry.

Conclusion

This Banana Cheesecake with Banana Cream Pie Topping is everything you love about two classic desserts rolled into one creamy, dreamy, utterly irresistible treat. It’s a beautiful blend of smooth cheesecake, banana cream richness, and nostalgic cookie crunch—basically, a flavor party in every bite. Whether you’re treating guests or just yourself, this dessert is guaranteed to steal the show.

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