Introduction
Indulging in a delicious dessert is one of life’s simple pleasures, and this banana cream cheesecake offers an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. With a buttery vanilla wafer crust, creamy banana-infused cheesecake filling, and a light whipped topping, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, let’s dive into the ingredients and make this delightful treat!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Crust:
– 40-50 vanilla wafer cookies (150-188 grams), plus more for topping
– ¼ cup brown sugar (53 grams)
– ½ cup salted butter (113 grams), melted (1 stick)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 16 ounces cream cheese (454 grams), room temperature (2 bricks)
– ½ cup powdered sugar (57 grams)
– 3.4 ounces instant banana pudding mix (96 grams, 1 box)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
– 1 cup sour cream (227 grams), room temperature
– 2 cups whipped topping (120 grams), thawed if frozen; plus more for topping
– 2 bananas, sliced and divided
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours (or overnight)
Yield: 8-10 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Using a food processor, pulse the vanilla wafers for 30 seconds or until well crushed.
Add Sugar and Butter
Add the brown sugar and melted butter; pulse again until thoroughly combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
Press the Crust Mixture
Press the cookie mixture into the bottom and a quarter up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan, using slightly damp fingers.
Chill the Crust
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer while preparing the cheesecake filling.
Mix the Cream Cheese
In a medium bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until well combined and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add Pudding and Sour Cream
Add the banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and sour cream; beat well until the mixture is thick and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Incorporate Whipped Topping
Fold in the whipped topping with a rubber spatula, mixing gently until fully incorporated.
Spread First Cheesecake Layer
Remove the pan from the freezer and spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
Arrange Banana Slices
Arrange slices from one banana over the cheesecake layer in a circular pattern.
Pour Remaining Cheesecake Mixture
Pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the bananas and smooth the top with a spatula or icing knife.
Chill the Cheesecake
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight.
Decorate Before Serving
Before serving, decorate with additional whipped topping using a piping bag and star-shaped tip, piping small flowers around the rim of the cheesecake.
Garnish with Banana and Cookies
Place alternating slices of the remaining banana and vanilla wafer cookies on the edge of each piped flower.
Remove from Springform Pan
Gently run a knife along the inside edge of the springform pan, then remove the outer ring.
Serve the Cheesecake
Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure the cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
Chilling Time
For best results, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Customization
Feel free to add more banana slices or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Crushing Cookies
Using a food processor allows you to achieve a fine crumb texture for the vanilla wafers, making it easy to create a smooth crust.
Combining Ingredients
Mixing brown sugar and melted butter with the crushed vanilla wafers ensures that the crust holds together well when pressed into the pan.
Pressing the Crust
Using slightly damp fingers helps to prevent the cookie mixture from sticking to your hands, making it easier to press evenly into the springform pan.
Beating Cream Cheese
Mixing cream cheese and powdered sugar together until fluffy ensures a light and creamy cheesecake base, creating a better mouthfeel.
Incorporating Whipped Topping
Gently folding in whipped topping preserves its lightness, preventing the cheesecake filling from becoming dense.
Chilling the Cheesecake
Refrigerating the cheesecake for several hours allows it to set properly, enhancing the flavors and making it easier to slice.
Decorating the Cheesecake
Using a piping bag and star-shaped tip to add decorative whipped topping can elevate the presentation, making the dessert visually appealing.
Removing the Springform Pan
Running a knife along the edge of the pan prevents the cheesecake from sticking, ensuring a clean release when removing the outer ring.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla wafers with other types of cookies, such as graham crackers or oreo cookies, but it may change the flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover cheesecake?
Leftover cheesecake can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week for optimal freshness.
Can I use fresh bananas instead of sliced bananas in the filling?
Yes, fresh bananas can be used, but they should be sliced and added just before serving to prevent browning.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as substitutes for sour cream in cheesecake filling.
Is it necessary to use instant pudding mix?
Yes, the instant pudding mix adds flavor and helps set the cheesecake, but you can experiment with other flavors if desired.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
How do I make the cheesecake gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and ensure that all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Conclusion
This delightful no-bake cheesecake combines the rich flavors of banana and vanilla, creating a creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The crunchy vanilla wafer crust adds a satisfying texture, making it an enjoyable treat for all. Chill it overnight for the best results, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for a deliciously refreshing experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Banana Cheesecake
Swap the vanilla wafer crust for a chocolate cookie crust and add cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a chocolatey twist.
Berry Banana Swirl Cheesecake
Incorporate a layer of mixed berry puree between the cheesecake layers for a fruity flavor that complements the bananas perfectly.
Pineapple Banana Cheesecake
Add crushed pineapple to the cheesecake filling for a tropical flair, enhancing the banana’s sweetness.
Coconut Banana Cream Cheesecake
Incorporate shredded coconut into the crust and cheesecake filling for a tropical coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with banana.
Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake
Mix in some creamy peanut butter to the filling for a delicious combination of banana and peanut butter that adds richness to the cheesecake.
