Banana Cream Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers 1/3 cup granulated sugar 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8 oz) packages
cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
1/2 cup sour
cream 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Banana Cream Topping:
1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix 1 ½ cups cold milk 1 cup heavy whipping cream 2 tbsp powdered sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
Whipped cream Sliced bananas (add just before serving to avoid browning) Crushed vanilla wafers or graham crumbs
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a glass to even it out. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Add the sugar and beat until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, mashed bananas, sour cream, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared crust.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Wrap the bottom of the pan with foil and place it in a water bath (to prevent cracks). Bake at 325°F for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Make the Banana Cream Topping
In a bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and 1 ½ cups cold milk until thick (about 2 minutes). Chill. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the pudding to create a light, banana-flavored mousse. Spread over the chilled cheesecake in an even layer.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, garnish with sliced bananas, whipped cream, and crumbs if desired. Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.
Tips for Success
Ripe bananas are key — they give the best natural sweetness and banana flavor. Room-temperature ingredients help avoid lumps in the batter. Water bath ensures an even bake and minimizes cracks. Wait to garnish with fresh bananas until just before serving to prevent browning. Chill thoroughly — the cheesecake sets better and cuts cleanly when fully chilled.
