Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

Introduction

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are the perfect marriage of two beloved desserts: classic Southern banana pudding and rich, creamy cheesecake. These dessert bars feature a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a smooth cheesecake layer infused with banana pudding flavor, and a light, luscious texture that melts in your mouth. Easy to slice and serve, they’re ideal for parties, potlucks, holidays, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing make-ahead dessert.

What sets these squares apart is balance. The cheesecake layer is creamy without being heavy, the banana flavor is present but not overpowering, and the vanilla wafer crust adds just the right nostalgic crunch. Because they’re made as bars, they’re easier than a traditional cheesecake—no water bath, no tricky slicing, and no stress.

These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares chill beautifully, hold their shape, and taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. If you love banana pudding and want a neat, shareable dessert that looks bakery-worthy, this recipe delivers every time.

Ingredients
For the Vanilla Wafer Crust

2 ½ cups vanilla wafer crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, cold

Optional Toppings

Crushed vanilla wafers

Banana slices (add just before serving)

Whipped cream

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Crust

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. In a bowl, mix vanilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set.

Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and lump-free. Add powdered sugar and beat until silky.

Step 3: Add Banana Pudding Flavor

Sprinkle the instant banana pudding mix over the cream cheese mixture. Add vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated. The mixture will thicken slightly.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In a separate chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This creates a light, airy cheesecake texture.

Step 5: Combine and Assemble

Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana cheesecake mixture using a spatula. Spread evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top.

Variation

Vanilla Banana Version: Use vanilla pudding mix and add mashed banana.

Chocolate Banana Bars: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling.

Mini Cheesecake Cups: Assemble in individual cups for parties.

Baked Version: Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 40–45 minutes for a firmer bar.

Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl sweetened cream cheese on top before chilling.

Cooking Note

Chilling time is essential for clean slices and the right texture. For best results, refrigerate the bars for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to develop.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares chilled, topped with crushed vanilla wafers or a dollop of whipped cream. Add fresh banana slices just before serving for the best appearance. These bars pair perfectly with coffee, iced tea, or milk.

Tips

Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture.

Make sure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.

Chill mixing bowl and beaters for whipping cream.

Don’t overmix when folding to keep the filling fluffy.

Slice with a clean, warm knife for neat edges.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

0 minutes

Total Time

6 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per square)

Calories: 360

Protein: 5 g

Sodium: 240 mg

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect made a day in advance.

Do these need refrigeration?
Yes, store covered in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze banana pudding cheesecake squares?
Yes, freeze without toppings for up to 2 months.

Why is my filling too soft?
It likely needs more chilling time or the whipped cream wasn’t stiff enough.

Can I use fresh bananas in the filling?
You can, but it will soften the texture—use sparingly.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are an easy, irresistible dessert that brings together creamy cheesecake and nostalgic banana pudding flavor in a perfectly sliceable form. With a buttery vanilla wafer crust and light, fluffy filling, these bars are ideal for sharing and guaranteed to impress. Simple to make, beautiful to serve, and impossible to resist—this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again. 🍌🍰

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