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.
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