Description
Deliciously creamy Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth banana-infused cheesecake layer, and a light banana cream topping. Perfect as a refreshing dessert or a sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Banana Cream Topping:
- 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
Optional Garnish:
- Crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Stir in mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the center is set and firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Prepare Banana Cream Topping: In a medium bowl, whip the cold heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Gently fold the pudding mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined to create a smooth topping.
- Assemble and Serve: Spread the banana cream topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers or banana slices if desired. Chill the assembled bars for an additional 30 minutes before slicing into 9 bars and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a vanilla wafer crust if preferred.
- For a stronger banana flavor, add a few banana slices between the cheesecake and topping layers.
- Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
