Description
Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake combines the rich flavors of banana pudding with the creamy texture of cheesecake, all atop a crunchy crust. Hereโs how to make it:
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (three 8 oz packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3.4 oz package instant banana pudding mix
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 3.4 oz package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
- Sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sugar and mix until combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the mashed bananas, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the instant banana pudding mix and blend until thoroughly combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until it thickens.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until well combined.
- Add Topping and Garnish:
- Spread the pudding mixture over the chilled cheesecake evenly.
- Decorate with sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth filling.
- For a firmer cheesecake, consider baking it in a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure even baking.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.