INTRODUCTION
Meet the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars, a delightful dessert that marries creamy cheesecake, sweet bananas and classic pudding. With each bite, you will experience the heavenly burst of these flavors in your mouth. These bars are perfect for dessert lovers and those wishing to surprise their guests in special gatherings.
WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE
Baking should be fun and rewarding, and these Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars qualify. Not only is the recipe simple, but it also doesn’t require any complicated baking techniques or tools. The recipe involves layering of flavors that results in a dish that’s undeniably enticing. Your kitchen will be filled with a captivating aroma that’s hard to resist.
HOW TO MAKE BANANA PUDDING CHEESECAKE BARS
Ingredients:
Crust:
– 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
Pudding Layer:
– 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
– 1 3/4 cups cold milk
Toppings:
– Whipped cream, for garnish
– Sliced bananas, for garnish
– Crushed wafer crumbs, for garnish
Directions:
Follow these quick and easy steps to make your very own Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars.
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix vanilla wafer crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the pan to create a uniform crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Include vanilla extract and mashed bananas until fully mixed.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the center is set. Let it cool.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until slightly thick. Spread this over the cheesecake layer.
6. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
7. garnish with whipped cream, banana slices, and crushed wafer crumbs before serving.
Serve right away and enjoy the flavors.
HOW TO SERVE BANANA PUDDING CHEESECAKE BARS
Serve the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars chilled, cut into squares. For added presentation, you can place each bar in a small dessert plate garnished with additional banana slices, whipped cream, and wafer crumbs.
HOW TO STORE BANANA PUDDING CHEESECAKE BARS
Store these dessert bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.
TIPS TO MAKE BANANA PUDDING CHEESECAKE BARS
– Make sure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened before you begin; this will ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
– Use ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor.
– To easily crush our wafers, place them in a plastic bag and roll with a rolling pin.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
A1: While this recipe is specifically designed for bananas, you can experiment with other fruits such as strawberries or peaches. However, this may alter the flavor and texture.
Q2: Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
A2: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but this may slightly change the texture of the cheesecake layer.
Q3: Can I freeze the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars?
A3: Yes, you can freeze them. Ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.