Banana Pudding Cheesecake

DifficultyBeginner

Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake made with real bananas, vanilla pudding flavor, and a buttery vanilla wafer crust. This decadent dessert combines classic banana pudding with rich baked cheesecake, perfect for holidays and special occasions.

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Yields12 Servings
Prep Time35 minsCook Time1 hr 15 minsTotal Time1 hr 50 mins
Vanilla Wafer Crust
 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 60 cookies)
 2 tbsp granulated sugar
 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Banana Cheesecake Filling
 32 oz full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
 ¾ cup granulated sugar
 ¼ cup light brown sugar
 2 tbsp cornstarch (or 3 tbsp all-purpose flour)
 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about ¾ cup)
 1 tsp vanilla extract
 ½ tsp banana extract (optional, for stronger flavor)
 ½ cup sour cream, room temperature
 ½ cup heavy cream
 4 large eggs, room temperature
Optional Toppings
 Whipped cream
 Sliced bananas
 Crushed vanilla wafers
 Caramel drizzle
Prepare the Pan
1
  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

  • Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty foil.

Make the Crust
2
  • Mix vanilla wafer crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.

  • Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.

  • Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.

Make the Cheesecake Filling
3
  • Beat cream cheese on low speed until smooth.

  • Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cornstarch; mix gently.

  • Blend in mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and banana extract (if using).

  • Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.

  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.

Bake (Water Bath)
4
  • Pour filling over crust and smooth top.

  • Place pan in a roasting pan and pour hot water halfway up the sides.

  • Bake for 75 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.

Cool Gradually
5
  • Turn oven off, crack door open, and let cheesecake cool inside oven for 1 hour.

  • Remove from water bath, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

Decorate & Serve
6

Top with whipped cream, banana slices, and crushed vanilla wafers just before serving.

Pairing Suggestions
7

Toppings

  • Caramel or dulce de leche drizzle

  • Extra vanilla wafers

  • Toasted pecans

Beverages

  • Coffee or espresso

  • Vanilla latte

  • Sweet iced tea or milk

Ingredients

Vanilla Wafer Crust
 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 60 cookies)
 2 tbsp granulated sugar
 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Banana Cheesecake Filling
 32 oz full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
 ¾ cup granulated sugar
 ¼ cup light brown sugar
 2 tbsp cornstarch (or 3 tbsp all-purpose flour)
 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about ¾ cup)
 1 tsp vanilla extract
 ½ tsp banana extract (optional, for stronger flavor)
 ½ cup sour cream, room temperature
 ½ cup heavy cream
 4 large eggs, room temperature
Optional Toppings
 Whipped cream
 Sliced bananas
 Crushed vanilla wafers
 Caramel drizzle
Banana Pudding Cheesecake