Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 1 cup banana pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
• Fresh banana slices for garnish
• Whipped cream for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas until combined.
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow to cool completely.
7. In another bowl, prepare the banana pudding mix with cold milk according to package instructions. Fold in the whipped heavy cream.
8. Spread the pudding mixture over the cooled cheesecake layer.
9. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
10. Garnish with fresh banana slices and whipped cream before serving.
11. Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (including refrigeration time)
12. Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 bars

FAQs:

• What are Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars? Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of classic banana pudding and creamy cheesecake. They feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a layer of creamy cheesecake filling infused with ripe bananas, and are finished with a topping of vanilla pudding and sliced bananas.
• How do you make Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars? To make Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars, start by preparing a graham cracker crust and pressing it into a baking pan. Then, blend cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas until smooth. Pour this cheesecake mixture over the crust and bake until set. Once cooled, spread a layer of prepared vanilla pudding over the cheesecake layer and top with sliced bananas. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
• Can I use instant pudding mix for this recipe? Yes, you can use instant pudding mix for the vanilla pudding layer in Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars. Follow the package instructions to prepare the pudding, then spread it evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer before adding the sliced bananas.
• How should I store Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars? Store Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Due to the creamy cheesecake and pudding layers, it’s best to keep them chilled to maintain freshness.
• Can I freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars? Yes, you can freeze Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars for up to 1-2 months. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best results.