No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake
Discover the creamy, dreamy delight of No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake, a luscious dessert that combines the velvety texture of cheesecake with smooth banana pudding flavors and a crunchy cookie crust. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion, delivering a perfectly balanced blend of sweet bananas, creamy filling, and a crispy base without the need for an oven.
- Author: Sophie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free cookies substitution)
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
- ⅓ cup melted butter
For the Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
For the Layers and Garnish
- 3 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
- Additional crushed vanilla wafers (optional, for garnish)
- Caramel sauce (optional, for garnish)
- Prepare the Crust: Crush the vanilla wafers finely and mix them thoroughly with melted butter until the crumbs hold together well. Press the mixture evenly into the base of a springform pan or dish. Refrigerate the crust to firm up while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the instant banana pudding mix and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping to keep the filling light and fluffy without overmixing.
- Assemble the Layers: On the chilled crust, place a layer of banana slices evenly. Pour half of the pudding cheesecake filling over the banana layer. Add another layer of sliced bananas, then top with the remaining filling. Smooth the surface for an even finish.
- Chill and Set: Cover the assembled cheesecake with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to fully set, develop flavors, and ensure easy slicing.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with extra banana slices, crushed vanilla wafers, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance both the presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for smooth mixing and to avoid lumps.
- Fold the whipped topping gently into the filling to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Select ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness and limit browning after slicing.
- Allow enough chilling time, at least 4 hours, for the cheesecake to firm up properly.
- Toss banana slices with a little lemon juice if you plan to garnish with fresh bananas to prevent browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: No-Bake, Banana Pudding, Cheesecake, Easy Dessert, Banana Dessert, Cream Cheese Dessert, Gluten-Free Option