Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones are a playful twist on classic banana pudding and cheesecake. These cones offer a combination of rich and creamy cheesecake filling, smooth banana pudding, and the crunch of a cookie-coated cone. The individual servings make them a great choice for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a treat any time. With the added option to drizzle with caramel and pile on whipped cream and bananas, these cones are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re a fun and delicious dessert that’s both visually appealing and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
• 1 1/2 cups cold milk

For the Cones:

• 10-12 waffle cones or sugar cones
• 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
• 2 tbsp melted butter

For Garnish:

• Sliced bananas
• Whipped cream
• Crushed vanilla wafer cookies
• Caramel drizzle (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
3. Prepare the banana pudding: In another bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine: Gently fold the prepared banana pudding into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Refrigerate while preparing the cones.

Prepare the Cones:

1. Make the crushed cookie coating: In a small bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafer cookies with melted butter until evenly coated.
2. Coat the cones: Dip the top edges of the waffle or sugar cones into the melted butter mixture, then roll in the crushed vanilla wafer cookies to create a cookie rim. Let the cones sit for a few minutes to set.

Assemble the Cheesecake Cones:

1. Fill the cones: Spoon or pipe the banana pudding cheesecake filling into the prepared cones, filling them generously.
2. Garnish and Serve: Top each cone with a slice of banana, a dollop of whipped cream, extra crushed vanilla wafers, and a drizzle of caramel if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 10-12 Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones, depending on the size of your cones.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (to set the filling)
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a chocolate drizzle on top instead of caramel for a richer, decadent flavor.
• Nuts: Top the cones with chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mini Cones: Use mini cones for bite-sized versions of this dessert, perfect for parties or kids.
• Different Flavored Puddings: You can switch out the banana pudding mix for vanilla, chocolate, or even a strawberry pudding mix to create different variations.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These cheesecake cones are best served fresh. However, you can store the assembled cones in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving. The cones will soften over time, so it’s ideal to prepare them closer to when you plan to serve.
• Reheating: These cones don’t require reheating, as they are a cold dessert. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pudding instead of instant pudding mix?

Yes, but the consistency might differ. Instant pudding is meant to set quickly and help thicken the cheesecake filling faster, while regular pudding needs time to cook and cool.

2. Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just fill the cones before serving.

3. How do I make the cones crunchy for longer?

To keep the cones from getting soggy, you can lightly toast them in the oven before coating them with the crushed wafers.

4. Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy whipping cream?

Yes, you can substitute whipped topping, but the texture of the cheesecake filling might be slightly different.

5. Can I freeze the cones?

While the cheesecake filling and cones can be frozen separately, the texture may change when frozen and thawed. It’s best to assemble and serve the cones fresh.

6. How long will the banana pudding cheesecake filling last in the fridge?

The filling will last for about 2-3 days in the fridge, but it’s best served fresh to maintain the ideal texture.

7. Can I make these cones without bananas?

Yes, you can omit the banana slices and top with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even caramelized pineapple for a different twist.

8. Can I use graham cracker crumbs instead of vanilla wafers?

Yes, graham crackers are a great substitute for the vanilla wafer cookies and will still add a nice crunch to the cones.

9. Is it okay to use homemade pudding instead of the instant mix?

Yes, you can use homemade banana pudding, but it might alter the texture of the cheesecake filling slightly. Be sure to allow the homemade pudding to cool before mixing it in.

10. Can I serve these cones at a party?

Definitely! These cones make for a great party dessert, especially with their fun presentation and individual servings that guests can grab and enjoy.

Conclusion

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones are a delicious and creative dessert that brings together the flavors of classic banana pudding and creamy cheesecake. With a crunchy cone, smooth filling, and customizable toppings, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a sweet treat on your own, these cones are sure to be a hit. Give them a try, and enjoy a fun, portable dessert that everyone will love!

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