Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake

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This dreamy, no-bake Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake is exactly what dessert lovers crave. It combines all the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding—sweet ripe bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and a buttery cookie crust—with the indulgence of a silky cheesecake. One slice of this chilled treat is all it takes to impress at potlucks, summer cookouts, or cozy evenings in.

What makes this cheesecake so irresistible is its layered texture. The creamy cheesecake filling hugs chunks of banana and pockets of pudding, while the whipped topping and crushed cookies give each bite a light crunch. It’s a showstopper dessert with all the ease of a no-fuss recipe—no oven required.

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What Kind of Crust Works Best for Banana Pudding Cheesecake?

A graham cracker crust is the classic go-to for banana pudding cheesecake. Its slightly sweet, crumbly texture pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. But if you want to lean into the Southern banana pudding vibe, try using vanilla wafers or butter cookies instead. They soften just enough in the fridge to mimic the nostalgic pudding layers you know and love.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Graham Crackers (or Vanilla Wafers)
The foundation of our crust. They add a buttery crunch that complements the smooth cheesecake layer.

Unsalted Butter
Melted and mixed with the cookie crumbs, butter binds everything together and adds rich flavor to the crust.

Cream Cheese
Full-fat cream cheese is key for that classic, tangy cheesecake texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.

Bananas
Ripe but firm bananas are ideal. They bring natural sweetness and that iconic banana pudding flavor throughout the cheesecake.

Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
This gives a silky pudding layer that adds nostalgia and creaminess.

Cold Milk
Used to activate and thicken the pudding. Whole milk gives the best texture.

Whipped Topping (or Whipped Cream)
It lightens the cheesecake filling and creates a fluffy topping that’s easy to spread and decorate.

Powdered Sugar
Adds sweetness and smoothness to the filling.

Vanilla Extract
Brings depth and classic dessert aroma to the cheesecake.

Optional Garnishes: Caramel Drizzle, Crushed Cookies, Extra Banana Slices
For that irresistible finish!

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How To Make the Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Crush the graham crackers (or vanilla wafers) into fine crumbs. Mix them with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Place it in the fridge to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Fold in half of the whipped topping gently to lighten the texture.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Pudding

Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens. Let it rest for a couple of minutes. This will serve as a layered surprise inside the cheesecake.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

Slice bananas and layer them over the prepared crust. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the bananas and spread evenly. Add dollops of pudding and gently swirl with a knife. Repeat with more banana slices and the rest of the cheesecake mixture.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Smooth out the top and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set and sliceable.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with the remaining whipped topping. Add crushed cookies, banana slices, and a drizzle of caramel right before serving. Slice with a clean, sharp knife for perfect presentation.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake

This cheesecake is best served cold straight from the fridge, especially on warm days when you want a refreshing, creamy treat. Use a warm knife for slicing to get clean, neat pieces—just run the knife under hot water and wipe dry between cuts.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Since the bananas are fresh, they may brown slightly over time, but the flavor stays delicious. For optimal appearance, add garnishes like banana slices and whipped topping just before serving.

Avoid freezing this dessert, as the banana slices and whipped layers don’t thaw well and may turn watery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Absolutely. Homemade whipped cream adds a rich, fresh taste. Just be sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so it holds structure in the filling and topping.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Choose bananas that are yellow with minimal brown spots. Overripe bananas may become mushy and too sweet, affecting the texture of the cheesecake.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This is a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight so it’s perfectly set and easy to slice by the next day.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap out the crust ingredients with gluten-free graham crackers or cookies. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels.

Can I use banana pudding instead of vanilla?

You can! It will intensify the banana flavor, which banana lovers may prefer. Vanilla pudding offers a more balanced flavor that highlights both the cheesecake and banana components.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

Add the banana slices just before layering them in, and don’t leave them exposed to air for too long. A quick brush of lemon juice can also slow browning without affecting the flavor too much.

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Want More Cheesecake Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake, here are a few more unique dessert recipes to explore next:

• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding brings together fruity bliss in every bite.
• Caramel Reeses Oreo Cheesecake is a decadent choice for chocolate and peanut butter fans.
• Strawberry Animal Cookie Cheesecake turns childhood nostalgia into a fun dessert centerpiece.
• Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Salad is a fruity, creamy alternative for non-traditional cheesecake lovers.
• Cheesecake Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies offer cheesecake flavor in cookie form.

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And if you make this Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake, leave a comment! Did you stick with vanilla pudding or go bold with banana? Whipped cream or whipped topping? Share your twist below—I love seeing how you make it your own!

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