- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix vanilla wafer crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla, mashed bananas, sour cream, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour the batter over the crust and smooth the top.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Wrap the bottom of the pan in foil and place in a water bath (a larger pan with hot water) to prevent cracks.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Step 4: Make the Whipped Topping
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe onto the cheesecake before serving.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
🍌 Top with banana slices and vanilla wafers for the classic banana pudding touch!
Serving and Storage Tips
🍰 Best served chilled, straight from the fridge.
🍰 Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🍰 Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before serving.
Variants
- Chocolate Banana Cheesecake – Add ½ cup melted chocolate to the filling.
- No-Bake Version – Use instant banana pudding and whipped cream instead of baking.
- Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake – Swirl in ¼ cup peanut butter for extra richness.
- Caramel Banana Cheesecake – Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free vanilla wafers for the crust.
FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought banana pudding instead of fresh bananas?
Yes! Fold in ½ cup banana pudding for extra flavor.
2. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
✔ Use a water bath for even baking.
✔ Don’t overmix the batter—too much air causes cracks.
✔ Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven.
3. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes! Cool Whip works as a quick alternative.
4. What’s the best way to slice cheesecake cleanly?
Use a warm knife, wiping it clean after each slice.
5. Can I add a banana extract for more flavor?
Absolutely! ½ teaspoon banana extract enhances the banana flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Pudding Cheesecake is creamy, dreamy, and full of banana goodness—a perfect blend of two classic desserts! Whether for a party, family gathering, or a weekend treat, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress.
