If you have a soft spot for creamy, dreamy desserts that make you feel like you’re indulging in a special treat each bite, this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe is going to blow you away. Combining the luscious creaminess of cheesecake with the nostalgic charm of banana pudding, plus a buttery vanilla wafer crust that adds the perfect crunch, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those recipes that feels both elegant and homey, making it perfect for everything from weekend gatherings to special celebrations. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy banana pudding in cheesecake form!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a glass bowl filled with smooth, creamy, pale yellow batter or frosting. The mixture has a thick and fluffy texture, with soft folds and swirls visible around the edges and center. A wooden spatula is seen partially buried in the batter, coated with the creamy layer, and positioned at the bottom part of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright setting. The batter looks rich and soft, ready to be used in baking or decorating. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step toward creating this delicious Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the rich cream cheese that forms the base to the ripe bananas that infuse the cheesecake with natural sweetness and a silky texture.

Nilla Wafers: These form the crunchy and buttery crust that gives the cheesecake its signature base and texture contrast.
Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that deepens the flavor of the crust.
Unsalted Butter: Melted to bind the crust ingredients together, providing a smooth and rich foundation.
Cream Cheese: The creamy backbone of the cheesecake, softened to room temperature for the smoothest batter.
White Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering.
Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
Bananas (mashed and sliced): Provide natural sweetness and the classic banana flavor, plus texture when layered thinly.
Sour Cream: Gives the cheesecake a subtle tanginess and keeps it wonderfully moist.
Heavy Cream: Used in both the cheesecake and the whipped vanilla pudding topping for richness and fluffy texture.
Large Eggs: Help bind the cheesecake together, ensuring a luscious, silky texture.
Crushed Nilla Wafers: Used in the batter for added crunch and to decorate the top for a beautiful finish.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Whipped with milk to create a light, creamy topping that adds the classic banana pudding vibe.
Milk: Chilled, to whip into the pudding mix bringing it to life.

How to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Nilla Wafer Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325℉ and preparing a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper. Crush the Nilla Wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor, then mix in the brown sugar and melted butter until everything is perfectly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the pan, creating a crust that extends halfway up the sides, then bake for 11 minutes to set it beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Banana Cheesecake Batter

Beat room-temperature cream cheese with sugar until fluffy and smooth for about two minutes. Then add the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, mixing gently to combine despite some lumps from the bananas—that’s the natural fruit texture showing through, adding charm. Next, slowly beat in the eggs just until mixed through, being careful not to overmix so the batter stays silky.

Step 3: Assemble Layers

Pour half of your cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, then add a layer of sliced bananas and sprinkle with crushed Nilla Wafers to create delightful texture and bursts of flavor in every bite. Finally, cover with the remaining batter, smoothing the top for an even finish.

Step 4: Bake with a Water Bath

Place your springform pan inside a larger pan filled halfway with hot water using either of two water bath methods to keep your cheesecake moist and prevent cracks. This gentle cooking helps the cheesecake bake evenly with a slight jiggle in the center when done—usually after 80-90 minutes. After baking, let it rest slowly in the cooling oven for 30 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake

Wrap your cooled cheesecake tightly in foil and chill it for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible. This resting time is crucial for all the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up to that perfect creamy consistency you expect from a top-notch cheesecake.

Step 6: Prepare the Whipped Vanilla Pudding

Whisk instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened, then chill while you whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract to stiff peaks. Fold the whipped cream gently into the pudding mixture to keep it light and airy—the ideal topping for your banana cheesecake.

Step 7: Decorate and Serve

Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and peel off the parchment paper. Spread the whipped vanilla pudding mixture evenly on top and finish by sprinkling crushed Nilla Wafers all over for a nostalgic and inviting look.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe

A slice of cake on a white plate shows four layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly brown crust, above it is a white cream layer with visible light brown pieces, the third layer is a thick light beige cream with a smooth texture, and the top layer is a pale yellow creamy frosting sprinkled with small crumbs. The plate sits on a wooden surface with crumbs scattered around, and the background is a simple warm brown. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of crushed Nilla Wafers adds crunchy texture and a touch of rustic charm, while a few fresh banana slices arranged on top can make it look extra inviting. For a pop of color and freshness, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon to elevate the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe pairs wonderfully with freshly brewed coffee or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent contrast. A light, crisp salad with citrusy dressing is also a fantastic palate cleanser, balancing the sweetness of the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices in clear dessert glasses layered with extra pudding and banana slices for a parfait-style treat. Alternatively, slice into mini portions and top each with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a wafer for charming party bites guaranteed to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any remaining cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze this cheesecake if needed. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the perfect texture.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. If you want a softer texture, let slices sit out for about 15 minutes at room temperature before serving—but never microwave it, as it will ruin the texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bananas in this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh bananas are the best choice here for natural sweetness and texture, both mashed into the batter and sliced as layers. Just be mindful of browning—using ripe but firm bananas works perfectly.

Do I have to use a water bath when baking the cheesecake?

Yes, the water bath is essential in this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe to keep the cheesecake moist and prevent cracks. It creates gentle, even heat that ensures a creamy, silky texture.

Can I substitute the instant vanilla pudding with homemade pudding?

You can, but using instant vanilla pudding makes the topping quick and foolproof while still achieving that classic banana pudding flavor. Homemade pudding might alter the texture slightly.

Is it okay to use a regular oven instead of convection?

Definitely. The recipe does not require convection baking; just make sure your oven is preheated properly and follow the timing closely to get the perfect bake.

How many servings does this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe make?

This recipe yields about 16 generous servings, making it perfect for families, parties, or any celebration where you want to impress a crowd.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe is a true labor of love that delivers on both flavor and texture in every luscious bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, it’s a dessert that brings smiles and warm memories to the table. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a go and enjoy your newest favorite way to celebrate bananas and cheesecake together!