Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’ve ever wished your favorite banana pudding could merge with rich, creamy cheesecake, I’ve got just the treat for you: Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust supporting layers of velvety banana-infused cheesecake and fluffy banana cream, topped with a cloud of whipped topping and a sprinkle of crunchy vanilla wafers. Every bite is a cool, creamy escape — a dessert that’s both nostalgic and sophisticated, perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply spoiling yourself. If you’re after something that makes everyone ask for seconds, these bars are about to become your go-to recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars is in their simple, familiar ingredients coming together for a crave-worthy dessert. Each item plays a crucial role, contributing to the dreamy texture and bright banana flavor that makes this dish such a crowd-pleaser.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These provide that classic, slightly crunchy base and a toasty flavor that balances the sweet, creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar: Divided between the crust and the filling, it sweetens both layers without overwhelming the natural banana notes.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together and adds delicious richness—make sure it’s fully melted for an even mix.
- Ripe bananas, mashed: Use spotty bananas for maximum sweetness and stronger banana flavor in the cheesecake filling.
- Cream cheese, softened: This is the heart of the dessert, making the cheesecake layer luscious—be sure it’s at room temperature for a super-smooth mixture.
- Eggs: They help set the cheesecake and create that irresistible, slightly dense but creamy texture.
- Vanilla extract: A tiny splash adds depth of flavor and lets the banana shine.
- Instant banana cream pudding mix: This shortcut ingredient delivers instant banana flavor and helps stabilize the creamy top layer.
- Milk: Needed for the pudding—whole milk has the best texture, but any milk will do in a pinch.
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Folds into the pudding for a super-light, dreamy upper layer—don’t skip it.
- Optional: Sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for topping: These make your bars look bakery-worthy and give a little crunch.
How to Make Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Build the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until every crumb is glossy and looks like damp sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish—take your time here, as a well-packed crust is the foundation of perfect Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges look just golden and set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Whip Up the Banana Cheesecake Layer
While the crust cools, grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with ½ cup granulated sugar until it’s totally smooth—no lumps allowed! Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing everything until creamy and fully combined. The bananas lend both flavor and moisture here, creating a custardy base you’ll love. Pour this mixture over your cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on it—don’t overbake! Once done, let the bars cool to room temperature; this step is crucial for creamy, crack-free Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars.
Step 4: Create the Fluffy Banana Cream Layer
In a clean bowl, whisk the instant banana cream pudding mix and milk together until thickened, about 2 minutes. Gently fold in the whipped topping until you have a pale, billowy mixture. Carefully spread this on top of the cooled cheesecake layer, making sure to reach every corner for a perfectly even finish.
Step 5: Chill and Top
Transfer your almost-finished Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 3 hours—overnight is even better for clean slices and full flavor. To serve, cut into bars and, if you like, crown each with fresh banana slices and a scatter of crushed vanilla wafers. These final touches aren’t just pretty—they add irresistible flavor and crunch!
How to Serve Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
The classic way to finish Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars is with a generous sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers and a few bright banana slices right before serving. For a festive twist, try a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce—each adds a special touch and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bars stand out all on their own, but they shine even brighter with some fruity side dishes like fresh berries, a tart raspberry sauce, or a platter of citrus. They also pair perfectly with a strong cup of coffee or iced cold brew, making them a stellar finish to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping party platter, arrange the Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars on a cake stand, alternating plain and garnished pieces. Or, cut them into small bites and nestle each square in a cupcake wrapper for a bite-size dessert buffet. If you’re feeling playful, serve each bar in a mason jar layered with extra pudding and cookie crumbs for a deconstructed spin that delights adults and kids alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars at their creamy best, store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days—just remember to add banana slices right before serving, as they can brown quickly.
Freezing
If you need to make these ahead, you can absolutely freeze Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars. Slice them first and arrange the squares in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. Freeze for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and add fresh toppings just before enjoying.
Reheating
These bars are meant to be served chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary—in fact, a cold slice is part of their charm! If you’ve frozen them, allow plenty of time for them to fully thaw in the fridge for the ultimate creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream gives Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars a lighter, less sweet finish. Just whip about 1 ½ cups of cold heavy cream with a tablespoon of powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then fold it into the pudding layer as directed.
Can I make these bars gluten free?
Yes! Swap the regular graham cracker crumbs and vanilla wafers for your favorite gluten free versions. Most supermarkets stock great gluten free cookies and crackers that’ll work perfectly for this recipe.
What’s the best way to slice chilled cheesecake bars cleanly?
For tidy squares, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This little trick gives you those crisp, photo-worthy edges, especially after the bars have been fully chilled.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Definitely! Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars are ideal for making ahead—just prepare and chill as directed. They taste even better after chilling overnight, as all the flavors have time to mingle and intensify.
Can I add more banana flavor?
If you’re a true banana lover, boost the flavor by adding a half teaspoon of banana extract to the cheesecake filling, or sprinkle in some extra finely mashed banana. Just don’t add too much, as excess moisture could affect the set.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that gets everyone talking (and reaching for another piece), you just can’t beat these Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars. They’re comfort food and a sweet treat all in one, sure to be the highlight of any gathering. I hope you’ll give them a try and share a slice of this creamy, dreamy goodness with the ones you love!
Print
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the tropical sweetness of bananas, all in a convenient bar form. Creamy, fruity, and decadent, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Banana Cream Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana cream pudding mix
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced bananas
- Crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and ½ cup sugar until smooth. Add bananas, eggs, and vanilla. Pour over crust and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Make Banana Cream Layer: Whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over cooled cheesecake layer.
- Chill and Serve: Chill for at least 3 hours. Top with sliced bananas and crushed wafers before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
- For a stronger banana flavor, consider adding banana extract.
- Store in the refrigerator and serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
