Description
This No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a creamy, luscious dessert combining the classic flavors of banana pudding with a smooth cheesecake filling atop a crunchy vanilla wafer crust. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion, it requires no oven time and sets beautifully in the fridge for a delightful, easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana cream pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping or whipped cream
For assembly:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- Additional vanilla wafers for garnish
- Extra whipped topping for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Let this sit for 5 minutes to fully set, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture along with the vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the whipped topping until completely incorporated, creating a light and creamy filling.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Arrange a single layer of sliced bananas evenly over the chilled crust. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the banana layer, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set fully.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally top the cheesecake with extra whipped topping, additional banana slices, and crushed or whole vanilla wafers for decoration and texture.
Notes
- To prevent the bananas from browning, slice and add them just before serving if you prefer not to layer them inside the cheesecake to maintain freshness and color.
- Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve flavor and texture.
- This cheesecake is not suitable for freezing, as freezing may alter its creamy texture negatively.