Description
This No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a creamy, luscious dessert combining the classic flavors of banana pudding with a rich cheesecake texture. Featuring a buttery vanilla wafer crust and light, fluffy banana-infused filling, it’s easy to prepare without baking and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Filling
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping or whipped cream (plus more for topping)
Garnish
- Sliced bananas
- Crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in the mashed ripe bananas thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Prepare the pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with the cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Combine filling components: Add the thickened pudding mixture to the cream cheese and banana mixture. Mix well so all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping or whipped cream into the combined filling until it becomes smooth and fluffy, ensuring a light texture.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the creamy filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours, allowing it to firm up properly before serving.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, adorn the cheesecake with additional whipped cream, fresh banana slices tossed with lemon juice to prevent browning, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for added texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor in the filling.
- To keep banana slices from browning when garnishing, toss them with a little lemon juice beforehand.
- This cheesecake can be prepared a day in advance and kept chilled until serving, making it perfect for easy entertaining.
