Delicious Banana Pudding Cheesecake That Steals the Show

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

As I poured my steaming cup of coffee this morning, a golden ray of sunlight caught the corner of my kitchen. It hit me: there s something about baking that transforms an ordinary day into a moment of joy. Today, I m diving into one of my ultimate indulgences Banana Pudding Cheesecake. This creation is a delightful marriage of creamy cheesecake with the comforting nostalgia of banana pudding.

When ripe bananas are lovingly mashed and layered with the soft creaminess of cheese, it s pure bliss. The best part? It s deceptively simple to make, perfect for those days when you crave a homemade treat but want to keep things easy. Your family and friends will be begging for seconds, and you ll love how the flavors meld beautifully in this rich dessert. So, gather those ingredients and let s turn your kitchen into a haven of deliciousness!

Why is Banana Pudding Cheesecake a Must-Try?

Irresistible combination: Imagine the flavors of creamy cheesecake and sweet banana pudding coming together in one delightful dessert.

Showstopper recipe: This Banana Pudding Cheesecake is sure to be the highlight of your next gathering, impressing all your guests.

Simplicity: With minimal effort and common ingredients, you ll create a stunning treat that looks as good as it tastes.

Rich texture: Enjoy every luscious bite of the velvety cheesecake layered with soft bananas and a crumbly Nilla Wafer crust.

Versatile serving: Perfect for celebrations, weeknight dinners, or simply indulging yourself, this dessert is always a crowd favorite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Ingredients

For the Crust
Nilla Wafers These crumbly cookies form a delicious, buttery base for your Banana Pudding Cheesecake.
Brown sugar Adds depth and sweetness to the crust; light or dark both work perfectly.
Unsalted butter Melted butter binds the crust ingredients together for a rich flavor.

For the Cheesecake Filling
Cream cheese Room temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
White granulated sugar Balances the richness of the cream cheese, creating a sweet and tangy flavor.
Pure vanilla extract A splash of vanilla enhances the overall taste of the cheesecake.
Bananas, mashed Ripe, mashed bananas infuse natural sweetness and moisture into the cheesecake.
Sour cream Adds tanginess and creaminess, making the cheesecake incredibly rich.
Heavy cream Provides a luxurious texture for the filling and balances the flavors.
Large eggs Room temperature eggs help to bind everything together and create a light texture.

For Assembling
Crushed Nilla wafers To sprinkle between layers and for topping; they add delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
Bananas, sliced Fresh banana slices give bursts of flavor and are visually appealing in your cheesecake.

For the Topping
Instant vanilla pudding This creates a luscious topping for your cheesecake, bringing in those classic banana pudding flavors.
Milk Cold milk helps to whip up the pudding quickly and smoothly.
Heavy cream Whipped to stiff peaks, it adds a fluffy texture that compliments the cheesecake perfectly.
Crushed Nilla Wafers Use these for decorating your dessert with an eye-catching finish.

With these simple yet essential ingredients ready, you ll be on your way to creating a sensational Banana Pudding Cheesecake that will charm anyone lucky enough to taste it!

How to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake

1. Preheat the oven to 325 . This ensures your cheesecake bakes evenly, so don t skip this step! Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying it with baking nonstick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Blend the Nilla Wafers in a food processor until you have fine crumbs. Add the brown sugar and melted butter, mixing until it resembles wet sand. This will form the delicious crust of your cheesecake.

3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it halfway up the sides. This step lays a sturdy foundation for the cheesecake filling.

4. Bake the crust for about 11 minutes until it s slightly golden and aromatic. This ensures a perfectly textured base for your rich filling.

5. Beat the cream cheese and sugar on high speed for 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to make sure everything is well combined.

6. Add the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture. Mix on medium speed until just combined; expect a lumpy texture thanks to those sweet banana bits!

7. Incorporate the eggs, mixing on low speed until just combined. Take a moment to scrape down the bowl again, making sure all ingredients are blended perfectly.

8. Layer half of the cheesecake batter over the crust. Add sliced bananas and sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top before topping with the remaining cheesecake batter. This creates delightful flavor layers!

9. Prepare a water bath by placing the springform pan into a larger 10-inch cake pan and filling it with hot water halfway up the side. This method helps bake the cheesecake evenly and prevents cracking.

10. Bake for 80-90 minutes, watching for a slight jiggle in the middle to indicate it s done but still moist. The edges should feel set to the touch.

11. Cool down the cheesecake by turning off the oven, cracking the door, and letting it rest for 30 minutes. Remove from the water bath and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

12. Chill the cooled cheesecake by wrapping it in foil and refrigerating for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully.

13. Prepare the topping by mixing the instant pudding powder and cold milk in a large bowl, beating until thickened for 2 minutes. Refrigerate while you whip the cream for the best consistency.

14. Whip heavy cream with vanilla in a metal bowl until stiff peaks form. This will create a fluffy topping for your decadent cheesecake.

15. Fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture gently with a rubber spatula until fully combined, achieving a light and airy consistency perfect for topping.

16. Remove the chilled cheesecake from the fridge, taking off the springform pan and parchment paper with care to preserve its shape.

17. Top your cheesecake with the whipped vanilla pudding mixture and sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top for an eye-catching finish.

Optional: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra touch of indulgence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Fridge: Store your Banana Pudding Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and creamy, ready for indulgent snacking anytime!

Freezer: If you d like to make it ahead, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you re ready to enjoy it again.

Serving: Allow the cheesecake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving after thawing. This will restore its creamy texture and showcase those delightful layers.

Reheating: There s no need to reheat the cheesecake it s best served chilled to maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Enjoy every luscious bite!

Expert Tips for Banana Pudding Cheesecake

• Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are perfectly ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor. Overripe bananas contribute to a richer cheesecake without needing extra sugar.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream for a smooth batter. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy cheesecake.

• Perfect Water Bath: A water bath helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake. Ensure the water is hot, and wrap your springform pan tightly to avoid water seeping in.

• Cool Gradually: After baking, let your cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This gradual cooling helps maintain its texture and prevents shrinkage.

• Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, allow your Banana Pudding Cheesecake to chill for at least 6 hours or, ideally, overnight before serving. This lets all the flavors meld beautifully.

What to Serve with Banana Pudding Cheesecake?

As you prepare to relish this creamy indulgence, consider these delightful pairings to enhance your dessert experience.

• Warm Cinnamon Coffee: The spicy warmth of cinnamon coffee perfectly complements the sweet banana flavors, creating an inviting aroma that enhances your dessert enjoyment.

• Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an airy lightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheesecake, making each bite even more heavenly.

• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch, balancing the sweetness with a hint of richness that elevates the whole dessert experience.

• Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries not only add a vibrant pop of color but also a refreshing tartness, cutting through the creamy cheesecake beautifully.

• Ice Cream: Pairing with a scoop of vanilla or banana-flavored ice cream creates a delightful contrast in textures, enhancing the overall indulgence of the cheesecake.

• Moscato Wine: A chilled glass of Moscato with its fruity notes and sweetness perfectly matches the rich banana pudding cheesecake, creating a truly celebratory vibe.

• Mini Fruit Tarts: These light, fruity desserts provide a fresh option that balances the richness of the cheesecake while continuing the delightful theme of banana and cream.

• Spiced Chai Latte: The warmth and spice of a homemade chai latte create a cozy, aromatic experience, perfect for enjoying alongside your banana pudding cheesecake.

• Nutty Biscotti: Crispy biscotti, especially with almond or hazelnut, add a satisfying crunch that pairs delightfully when dipped into your coffee as you savor your cheesecake.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Banana Pudding Cheesecake are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the cheesecake itself up to 24 hours in advance by completing all the steps up to chilling the cheesecake. After the cooling period, wrap the cheesecake tightly in foil to keep it fresh and refrigerate. For the topping, mix the instant pudding and milk up to 3 days in advance, storing it separately in the fridge until you re ready to serve. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream and fold it into the pudding mixture for that light, fluffy texture. This way, you ll enjoy a stunning dessert that s just as delicious, eliminating any last-minute stress!

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Variations

Get creative and elevate your Banana Pudding Cheesecake with these delightful twists that will tempt your taste buds!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute Nilla Wafers with gluten-free cookies for an equally delicious base.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut milk to make the cheesecake creamy without the dairy.
• Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the cheesecake batter for a rich chocolate twist.
• Nutty Flavor: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the crust for a delightful crunch and nutty taste.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving, adding a warm sweetness that perfectly complements the bananas.
• Banana Explosion: Increase the banana puree to three for an even stronger banana flavor that will make every bite feel indulgent.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual servings in muffin tins for a fun, portable dessert that everyone can enjoy!
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake batter for a warm, spiced finish that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the bananas.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough for the cheesecake?
Absolutely! Look for bananas with a few brown spots on the skin; this indicates they re sweet and soft enough for mashing. If they have dark spots all over, they re overripe, so be sure to catch them at just the right stage.

How should I store my Banana Pudding Cheesecake?
I recommend keeping your cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This method helps maintain its creamy texture and flavor, making it a convenient treat ready for you whenever the craving strikes!

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge for optimal texture restoration.

What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Very! If you notice any cracks, don t worry too much this can happen to the best of us. Make sure to use a water bath while baking, as it helps to regulate temperature and moisture. Cooling the cheesecake gradually by cracking the oven door can also prevent cracking.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
Be aware! This Banana Pudding Cheesecake contains dairy, which is not suitable for pets like dogs and cats. Individuals with dairy allergies should substitute the cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives, though the flavor and texture will vary.

How do I properly slice and serve the cheesecake?
To achieve clean slices, I suggest using a warm knife. Simply dip the knife in hot water, wipe it off, and then slice through the cheesecake. This technique helps prevent the creamy filling from sticking to the knife, giving you gorgeous, neat portions that look as good as they taste!