Ingredients:
• 3 cups Nilla Wafer (approximately one 11-ounce box) cookie crumbs
• 1/2 cup butter melted
• 1 pint heavy whipping cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 24 ounces cream cheese (3 8-ounce packages) softened
• 2 packages instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
• optional garnish: whipped topping and banana slices
Related:
INSTRUCTIONS
1) In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Nilla Wafer crumbs and the melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a square 8×8-inch baking pan (a 9×9-inch pan will also work well) lined with a sheet of parchment paper with extra paper sticking up from the edges. Chill the crust in the refrigerator or freezer while you move on to the next steps.
2) In a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, whip the heavy whipping cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form; set aside.
3) In a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the pudding mixes a little at a time, beating well between each addition. Add the whipped cream and mix until smooth.
4) Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheesecake for 8 hours, or overnight.
5) Cut the chilled cheesecake into 9 squares and garnish with whipped topping and banana slices if desired. Serve chilled.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust in the Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars recipe?
Certainly! While the recipe calls for Nilla Wafer cookie crumbs, you can experiment with other cookie varieties to suit your taste. Graham cracker crumbs or even chocolate cookie crumbs can be great alternatives for the crust. Feel free to get creative and choose a cookie that complements the banana cream cheesecake flavor.
Can I reduce the chilling time for the Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars?
The recommended chilling time of 8 hours or overnight ensures that the cheesecake sets properly and achieves the desired texture. While it may be tempting to shorten the chilling time, we advise against it. Allowing the cheesecake to refrigerate for the specified duration allows the flavors to meld and results in a creamy and delicious dessert. Patience is key for the best results!
Can I substitute fresh bananas for the banana cream pudding mix in the recipe?
The banana cream pudding mix contributes a specific flavor and consistency to the cheesecake bars. While fresh bananas can be a tasty addition as a garnish, substituting them for the pudding mix may alter the texture and flavor of the cheesecake. To maintain the intended banana flavor and creamy consistency, we recommend sticking to the specified banana cream pudding mix. However, feel free to experiment with fresh banana slices as an optional garnish for added freshness.