A delightful and creamy cheesecake layered with banana pudding and topped with whipped cream, perfect for banana lovers and special occasions.
**Ingredients:**
*For the crust:*
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
*For the cheesecake:*
– 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers
*For the pudding layer:*
– 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant banana pudding mix
– 3 cups cold milk
*For the whipped cream topping:*
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
*For decoration:*
– Sliced bananas
– Crushed vanilla wafers

**Directions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:** Preheat your oven to 325ยฐF (160ยฐC). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
2. **Make the Cheesecake Filling:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, fold in the mashed bananas and crushed vanilla wafers.
3. **Bake the Cheesecake:** Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. **Prepare the Pudding Layer:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Spread the pudding layer evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
5. **Make the Whipped Cream Topping:** In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the pudding layer.
6. **Decorate and Serve:** Garnish with sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers on top. Slice and serve chilled for a delicious treat thatโs sure to impress!
**Nutritional Information:**
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Baking Time: 1 hour | Chilling Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving |
Servings: 12 servings