Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe For A Sweet Touch

Craving a sweet treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding? Look no further than this Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe! This delightful twist on two beloved desserts is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Imagine the smooth, velvety texture of cheesecake paired with the rich, comforting taste of banana pudding. This dessert brings a touch of Southern charm to your table, and it’s simpler to make than you might think. Let’s dive into this heavenly recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Ingredients for Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

Before we start mixing and baking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this scrumptious Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe. From the crunchy crust to the creamy filling and the luscious pudding topping, every bite is a journey of delightful contrasts.

Ingredients Required

  • Crust:
    • 1 3/4 cups crushed Nilla Wafers
    • 3 tablespoons sugar
    • 6 tablespoons melted butter
  • Cheesecake Filling:
    • 32 ounces room temperature cream cheese
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup ripe mashed bananas
    • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
    • 4 whole eggs
  • Banana Pudding Layer:
    • 1/3 cup sugar
    • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • A pinch of salt
    • 2 whole egg yolks
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 1 tablespoon butter
    • 1-2 sliced bananas
  • Stabilized Whipped Cream:
    • 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
    • 4 tablespoons water
    • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
    • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Garnish:
    • Additional banana slices
    • Nilla Wafers

Required Equipment

  • 9-inch Springform Pan: Essential for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its structure.
  • Mixing Bowls: Multiple sizes for mixing the crust, filling, and pudding.
  • Electric Mixer: To ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Saucepan: For cooking the banana pudding layer.
  • Whisk: To prevent lumps in your pudding mixture.
  • Spatula: For scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
  • Cooling Rack: To cool the cheesecake evenly.
  • Foil: If not using a leakproof pan, this prevents water from seeping into the cheesecake during the water bath.
  • Piping Bag (optional): For a professional finish with the whipped cream decoration.

Required Time

  • Preparation Time: 45 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
  • Inactive Time: 12 hours (overnight chilling recommended)
  • Total Time: Approximately 15 hours and 15 minutes

Step By Step Instructions for Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

Let’s dive into the detailed steps of making this delightful Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake. Each phase of the process is important for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a dessert that’s sure to impress.

Preheat and Prepare the Crust:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups crushed Nilla Wafers, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 6 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure it is even, using the bottom of a measuring cup to press down the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.

In a large mixing bowl, beat 32 ounces of room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt, beating well after each addition.

Add 1 cup ripe mashed bananas and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.

Beat in 4 eggs, one at a time, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl between each addition. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Carefully pour boiling water into the larger pan, filling it halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. This water bath helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.

Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the water bath for another hour with the oven door slightly open. This gradual cooling helps prevent the top from cracking.

Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature on a cooling rack. Then refrigerate it overnight to set fully.

Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer:

In a saucepan, combine 1/3 cup sugar, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 whole egg yolks and 1 cup whole milk until smooth.

Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients in the saucepan, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the pudding thickens and holds stir marks. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon butter and 3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

Spread a thin layer of the cooled pudding over the chilled cheesecake.

Top the bananas with the remaining pudding, spreading it evenly. Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until well chilled.

Make Stabilized Whipped Cream:

In a small saucepan, mix 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin with 4 tablespoons water. Allow it to bloom for a couple of minutes, then heat over low heat until melted and clear.

In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken. Add 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and continue to beat until soft peaks form.

Gradually add the gelatin mixture, beating until the whipped cream is firm and holds its shape.

Decorate and Serve:

Pipe or dollop the stabilized whipped cream on top of the cheesecake. For a professional look, use a piping bag fitted with a Wiltons 1M tip.

Garnish with additional banana slices and Nilla Wafers as desired. For an extra touch, sprinkle coarsely crushed Nilla Wafers over the top of the cheesecake.

Tips for Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

Creating the perfect cheesecake can be a challenge, but these tips will help ensure success. Here are some helpful pointers for making this Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe:

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth batter.
  • Water Bath: Using a water bath (or bain-marie) helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks on the surface.
  • Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cheesecake will be.
  • Chill Thoroughly: For best results, let the cheesecake chill overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Stabilized Whipped Cream: Using gelatin to stabilize the whipped cream ensures it holds its shape for days, making it ideal for decorating.
  • Slice Cleanly: Dip a sharp knife in hot water before slicing the cheesecake. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat, clean slices.

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Serving Tips for Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

When it comes to serving this luscious cheesecake, presentation is key. Here are some tips to make your Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe shine:

  • Presentation: Use a piping bag to create beautiful swirls of whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake. This not only looks professional but also adds a touch of elegance.
  • Garnish: Just before serving, top each slice with a fresh banana slice and a whole Nilla Wafer. This adds texture and visual appeal.
  • Serving Temperature: Serve the cheesecake chilled. This keeps the layers firm and enhances the flavors.
  • Portioning: For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water before cutting each slice. Wipe the knife clean between cuts to ensure neat, professional-looking portions.

Nutrition in Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

This dessert is rich and satisfying, making it a wonderful treat for special occasions. Here’s a detailed look at its nutritional profile per serving:

  • Calories: 646
  • Fat: 44.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 25.4g
  • Carbohydrates: 55.1g
  • Sugar: 40.6g
  • Protein: 10.1g
  • Sodium: 514mg
  • Cholesterol: 205.7mg

Enjoy this cheesecake in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and savor every rich, creamy bite.

Conclusion

This Easy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe is a delectable fusion of two classic desserts, offering creamy, fruity, and comforting flavors in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat, it’s sure to impress and satisfy anyone who loves the combination of banana pudding and cheesecake.

With its beautiful presentation and heavenly taste, this cheesecake is a dessert that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and eating this Southern-inspired dessert!

FAQs

1. Why is banana pudding so popular?

Banana pudding is popular due to its creamy texture, nostalgic flavors, and simple preparation. It combines bananas, vanilla wafers, and pudding, creating a comforting, sweet treat loved by many.

2. Do you eat banana pudding hot or cold?

Banana pudding is typically enjoyed cold. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, making it a refreshing and satisfying dessert.

3. How do you make banana pudding thicker?

To make banana pudding thicker, use cornstarch or flour as a thickening agent. Cook the pudding longer, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired consistency.

4. What is banana cream pudding made of?

Banana cream pudding is made of ripe bananas, vanilla pudding, milk, sugar, eggs, and often vanilla wafers. It’s topped with whipped cream for extra sweetness and texture.

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