Step 1: Make the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafer cookies, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the Crust:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream and mashed banana until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the Filling:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Banana Pudding Layer
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until well combined.
- Spread the Pudding:
- Spread the banana pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Topping and Serving
- Add the Toppings:
- Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the top of the banana pudding layer.
- Garnish with additional whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake filling.
- Banana Flavor: For a stronger banana flavor, add a few drops of banana extract to the cheesecake filling.
- Prevent Browning: Toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the top to prevent browning.
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of decadence.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the top for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Dessert Table: Perfect for parties and gatherings, these bars will be a hit on any dessert table.
- Family Dessert: Serve as a delightful family dessert, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the best of banana pudding and cheesecake in one delicious bar. With a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, creamy cheesecake, and banana pudding layers, topped with fresh bananas and whipped cream, these bars are sure to impress. Follow this detailed recipe to create a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.