Irresistible Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars Recipe

There’s something utterly magical about Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars that makes your taste buds dance. Imagine a creamy, dreamy layer of cheesecake infused with the sweet, nostalgic flavor of ripe bananas, all nestled between two buttery graham cracker crusts. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you doing a little happy dance around the countertop. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert ideas recipe.

Now, let’s talk about the unforgettable moments that come with these bars. Picture a sunny afternoon gathering with friends, laughter filling the air as you present this dessert masterpiece. The first bite is an explosion of flavors that takes everyone back to their childhood, where banana pudding ruled the dessert table—only now it’s taken on a glam makeover.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion
  • The flavor profile combines creamy cheesecake with sweet bananas for a delightful experience
  • Visually, they are stunning with layers that invite you in for a slice
  • They are versatile enough to serve at picnics, parties, or cozy family dinners

I remember the first time I made these bars for my cousin’s birthday party; people were practically fighting over the last piece.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a smooth base that holds together beautifully.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the crust and helps bind everything together.
  • Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens both the crust and cheesecake layers perfectly.
  • Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened; this ensures an ultra-creamy texture in your cheesecake layer.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess that balances out the sweetness wonderfully.
  • Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are just perfect—too green won’t have enough flavor, and too brown might be mushy.
  • Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor; it elevates your dessert to another level.
  • Eggs: Large eggs help bind everything together and create a luscious texture.
  • Whipped Topping: For topping; it adds a light, fluffy finish to each bar.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and blend until combined. Incorporate sour cream and vanilla extract into the mixture until fully blended.

Add Bananas and Eggs: Mash ripe bananas in a separate bowl until smooth. Add them to your cheesecake mixture along with eggs one at a time. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to cracks.

Bake It Up!: Pour this heavenly mixture over your crust in the prepared baking pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Cool and Chill: Once out of the oven, allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before refrigerating for at least four hours (or overnight if you can resist!).

Add Whipped Topping & Serve!: Once chilled, spread whipped topping over the top of your bars elegantly. Cut into squares and serve them up; watch as everyone devours them like they’re going out of style!

You Must Know

  • These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are a delightful twist on classic flavors, blending smooth cheesecake with the nostalgic taste of banana pudding
  • Their creamy texture and sweet aroma make them a perfect dessert for gatherings, evoking smiles from everyone at the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create these bars efficiently, start by preparing the crust while preheating your oven, then move on to the cheesecake filling.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out bananas for other fruits like strawberries or add chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use ripe bananas for maximum flavor, as they add natural sweetness and moisture
  • Be careful not to overmix your cheesecake batter to avoid cracking during baking
  • Chill your bars thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts and better presentation

The first time I made these bars, my friends devoured them in minutes. One even asked if I had secretly hidden a bakery in my kitchen!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free cookies for the crust?

Yes, gluten-free cookies work great for a deliciously similar crust alternative.

How long should I chill the bars before serving?

Chill for at least four hours to ensure they set properly and enhance flavors.

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to two months in an airtight container.

Print
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Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Savor the creamy goodness of Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars, where nostalgic flavors meet a modern twist. This dessert features a rich cheesecake layer infused with ripe bananas, all set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights, these bars are sure to transport you back to childhood memories with every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • Whipped topping for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
  2. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
  3. Fold in mashed bananas and eggs one at a time until just combined; avoid overmixing.
  4. Pour cheesecake mixture over the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes until slightly jiggly in the middle.
  5. Cool on a wire rack for an hour before chilling in the refrigerator for at least four hours.
  6. Spread whipped topping over chilled bars, cut into squares, and serve.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (75g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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