Introduction
Experience the delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and classic banana pudding in our irresistible Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares. These decadent squares feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cheesecake layer, and a luscious banana pudding topping, creating a dessert that’s sure to please any palate. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cheesecake squares are bound to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Banana Pudding Topping:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Additional banana slices and vanilla wafers for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and spread it into an even layer.
4. Bake the Cheesecake Layer:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake layer cool completely.
5. Make the Banana Pudding Topping:
- Arrange the sliced bananas over the cooled cheesecake layer in a single layer.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the banana pudding mixture over the sliced bananas, spreading it into an even layer.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake squares to set.
- Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake squares out of the pan.
- Cut into squares and garnish with additional banana slices and vanilla wafers, if desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the heavenly combination of flavors in every bite!
Conclusion
With our Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares recipe, you can indulge in the classic flavors of banana pudding and cheesecake in a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these squares are sure to impress with their creamy texture and irresistible taste. Whip up a batch today and savor the deliciousness of homemade Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares!