Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity flavor of bananas. This recipe features a Nilla Wafer crust, a rich cream cheese layer, and a banana cream pudding topping, making it a perfect treat for banana and cheesecake lovers. It's an excellent choice for gatherings, potlucks, or as a special dessert for family dinners.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups Nilla Wafer cookie crumbs (approximately one 11-ounce box)
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- ¾ cup sugar
- 24 ounces cream cheese (3 8-ounce packages), softened
- 2 packages instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
- Optional garnish: whipped topping and banana slices
Directions:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of Nilla Wafer cookie crumbs with ½ cup of melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Step 3:
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a firm, even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
Step 4:
In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with ¾ cup of sugar until stiff peaks form. This will create a homemade whipped cream.
Step 5:
In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Step 6:
Gradually fold the whipped cream into the beaten cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
Step 7:
Prepare the instant banana cream pudding mix according to the package instructions. This typically involves whisking the pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens.
Step 8:
Spread the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture over the cooled crust.
Step 9:
Pour the prepared banana cream pudding over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
Step 10:
Refrigerate the Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Step 11:
Optional: Before serving, garnish with whipped topping and banana slices for added flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions:
Cut the chilled cheesecake into bars and serve. It's perfect as a dessert after meals or as a sweet treat at any time.
Tips:
- Crust Variations: You can substitute Nilla Wafers with graham crackers or any similar cookie for a different crust flavor.
- Banana Layer: For an extra layer of banana flavor, add sliced bananas on top of the cream cheese layer before adding the pudding.
- Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in the refrigerator, covered, to keep them fresh.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for the crust)
- Chill Time: At least 4 hours
- Total Time: About 4 hours and 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (varies based on the size of the bar and specific ingredients used)
- Protein: 4-6g per serving
- Sodium: Varies based on the ingredients used
Conclusion
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, bringing together the sweetness of banana pudding, the richness of cheesecake, and the crunchiness of a cookie crust. Whether for a special occasion or as a regular treat, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings with their delicious and creamy goodness!
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