If you’re searching for a dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and downright irresistible, look no further than this Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of rich cream cheese, fresh bananas, and luscious banana pudding layered atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Every bite delivers a velvety texture packed with banana goodness that instantly feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, these bars never fail to brighten the mood and satisfy sweet cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these dreamy bars. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crispy graham cracker crust to the silky banana cream topping, crafting layers that sing with flavor and harmony.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups): Forms the perfect crunchy base with a subtle sweetness that balances the creamy layers.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup crust + ½ cup filling): Sweetens both the crust and the filling to just the right degree, enhancing the bananas’ natural flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): Binds the crust crumbs together while adding rich, buttery notes.
- Ripe bananas (2, mashed): Brings fresh sweetness and moisture, packing a natural banana punch into the filling.
- Cream cheese, softened (16 oz): The heart of the cheesecake filling, ensuring a luscious and creamy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Provides structure and helps the cheesecake set perfectly without drying out.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic depth that complements the banana beautifully.
- Instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 oz box): Contributes an extra layer of rich banana flavor with a creamy, pudding-like finish.
- Milk (¾ cup): Necessary for mixing with the pudding to create the smooth top layer.
- Whipped topping (1 ½ cups, like Cool Whip): Folding this in lightens the pudding layer, making each bite airy and delightful.
- Optional sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers: Perfect for garnishing and adding a touch of crunch and extra banana flair.
How to Make Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with ¼ cup of sugar and the melted butter until the mixture looks evenly moistened. Press this evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Bake it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes firm and golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling; this step ensures your crust stays crisp and doesn’t get soggy later on.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with ½ cup sugar until it’s smooth and creamy—no lumps here. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, then mix until everything is well combined. The bananas bring a natural sweetness and moisture that makes this filling so dreamy. Pour this creamy mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly to prepare for baking.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Bake the cheesecake layer for 25 to 30 minutes, keeping an eye on the center to make sure it’s set but still creamy. The filling should be firm around the edges with just a slight jiggle in the middle. Let it come to room temperature once it’s out of the oven—important for getting the next topping to spread perfectly without melting.
Step 4: Prepare the Banana Cream Topping
Whisk together the instant banana cream pudding mix and milk until it thickens nicely—about 2 minutes. Then gently fold in the whipped topping; this combination creates a smooth, luscious layer that amplifies the banana flavor in a refreshing way. Spread this topping evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer.
Step 5: Chill and Garnish
Place the bars in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until fully set. This chilling time helps the flavors meld and the layers to firm up just right. Before serving, top with sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for a beautiful presentation that adds both texture and extra banana goodness.
How to Serve Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches can elevate these bars from delicious to stunning. Fresh banana slices bring a refreshing, fruity contrast, while crushed vanilla wafers add a nostalgic crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce is also a fantastic way to make these bars even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe is that it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements the creaminess perfectly. For a fresh balance, serve it alongside a mixed berry salad or a cup of piping hot coffee or tea to round out the dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into mini squares for a party platter or layering the components in clear dessert cups for an elegant parfait presentation. You can even add a sprig of mint on top for a pop of color, or drizzle maple syrup or chocolate sauce artistically across the plate for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover bars covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures they stay moist and fresh without absorbing other fridge odors. When stored properly, the flavors actually deepen, making every bite even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh garnishes just before serving for best results.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheating is usually not necessary. However, if you prefer a softer texture, let them come to room temperature before eating. Avoid microwave reheating, as this may affect the texture of the cheesecake and topping layers.
FAQs
Can I use regular pudding mix instead of instant banana cream pudding mix?
While instant pudding mix works best because it thickens quickly without cooking, you can use regular pudding mix if you follow the package instructions carefully. Keep in mind it may require chilling longer to set properly before folding in the whipped topping.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots on the peel. They are sweeter and more flavorful, which enhances the natural taste of the banana cream filling perfectly.
Can I substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream will add a light, fresh touch to the topping and allows you to control the sweetness. Just make sure it’s whipped to soft peaks before folding it into the pudding.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. Double-check your pudding mix to ensure it’s gluten-free too for a safe and delicious dessert.
Can I add extra banana flavor to the cheesecake filling?
If you want a more pronounced banana taste, adding a teaspoon of banana extract to the filling is a great idea. It boosts the flavor without altering the texture, making the bars even more banana-forward.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorite go-to desserts because it’s so easy to make yet guarantees impressive results every time. The balance between creamy cheesecake, luscious banana pudding, and that buttery crust makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I hope you give it a try and find as much joy in baking and eating these bars as I have. Trust me, once you taste them, they’ll become a timeless classic in your recipe collection!
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Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust layered with creamy banana-infused cheesecake and topped with a smooth banana pudding whipped topping. Perfectly chilled and garnished with fresh banana slices and crunchy vanilla wafers, these bars make a sweet, no-fail dessert ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pudding Topping
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana cream pudding mix
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Optional Toppings
- Sliced bananas
- Crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cream cheese and banana mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake layer to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Pudding Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the banana cream pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens, approximately 2 minutes. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the banana pudding whipped topping evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer. Place the entire dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or until the topping is fully set and firm.
- Add Optional Garnishes and Serve: Before serving, optionally top the bars with fresh sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for added texture and flavor. Cut into 9 bars and enjoy chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For a more pronounced banana flavor, you can add a teaspoon of banana extract to the cheesecake filling.
- Always keep the bars refrigerated and serve chilled for optimal texture and freshness.
