Description

Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes are delightful individual-sized desserts featuring a creamy banana-infused cheesecake filling atop a vanilla wafer crust. These mini cheesecakes combine the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding with the rich texture of classic cheesecake, making them perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime. Topped with whipped cream, banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafers, they offer a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium banana)
¼ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon lemon juice

Garnish

12 vanilla wafer cookies (for garnish)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Banana slices for serving (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a small bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafer cookies and melted butter. Press about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each liner to form the crust. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool.
Make the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, mashed banana, sour cream, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
Fill and bake: Divide the cheesecake batter evenly among the muffin cups over the pre-baked crusts. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let the cheesecakes cool in the pan for 30 minutes.
Chill: After cooling, refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled and firm.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, top each mini cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of banana, and a vanilla wafer cookie. For the best presentation, toss banana slices in lemon juice beforehand to prevent browning.

Notes

To prevent browning, toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before using them as garnish.
These mini cheesecakes can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Use mini vanilla wafers if possible, for easier and more proportional garnish.