Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars for a Creamy, Crowd-Pleasing Dessert

If you love banana pudding and cheesecake, why not enjoy both in one irresistible dessert? Banana pudding cheesecake bars combine the best elements of these two classic treats — a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a smooth banana-infused cheesecake filling, and a whipped topping layer that brings everything together.

Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or make-ahead family desserts, these bars are creamy, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to slice and serve. This no-fuss dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances sweetness, texture, and bold banana flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

This recipe makes approximately 12 to 16 bars.

For the Crust

• Two cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies
• One third cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• Two packages cream cheese (16 ounces total), softened
• Half cup granulated sugar
• Two large eggs
• One teaspoon vanilla extract
• One package instant banana pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
• One cup whole milk
• One banana, mashed

For the Topping

• One and one half cups whipped topping or sweetened whipped cream
• Crushed vanilla wafers and banana slices for garnish (optional)

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 35 minutes
• Chill time: 3 to 4 hours
• Total time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafer cookies and melted butter until evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, then set aside to cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Banana Cheesecake Filling

5. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
6. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and milk until thickened.
8. Stir the pudding into the cream cheese mixture, followed by the mashed banana and vanilla extract.
9. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake and Chill

10. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggles excessively.
11. Allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours, or overnight for best texture.

Step 4: Add the Topping and Garnish

12. Once fully chilled, spread whipped topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.
13. Optionally garnish with extra crushed vanilla wafers or fresh banana slices just before serving.
14. Slice into bars and serve cold.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled on a platter for easy portion control at parties or gatherings.
• Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent finish.
• Top with candied nuts or toffee bits for added crunch.
• Pair with iced coffee or sweet tea for a Southern-inspired dessert experience.

Nutritional Highlights

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 bar, based on 16 bars)
Calories	260
Total Fat	17 grams
Saturated Fat	10 grams
Cholesterol	55 milligrams
Sodium	200 milligrams
Carbohydrates	23 grams
Dietary Fiber	1 gram
Sugars	14 grams
Protein	4 grams

Key Benefits:

• Cream cheese provides calcium and a satisfying texture.
• Bananas offer potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness.
• Whipped topping and pudding create a lighter-than-air finish without the heaviness of traditional cheesecakes.
• Easy-to-portion bars keep servings controlled for dessert tables and gatherings.

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling with no lumps.
• Chill the bars fully before slicing to help them hold their shape.
• Garnish with bananas just before serving to avoid browning.
• For added banana flavor, use banana-flavored whipped topping or banana extract in the filling.

Variations to Try

• Swap the vanilla wafer crust for a graham cracker or golden Oreo base.
• Add mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the filling for a fun twist.
• Replace banana pudding with vanilla pudding and add banana slices directly to the filling.
• Make mini versions in muffin tins with liners for individual servings.

Banana pudding cheesecake bars are the perfect fusion of creamy, fruity, and classic dessert flavors in an easy-to-make, easy-to-share format. Whether you are feeding a crowd or prepping a few slices to enjoy throughout the week, these bars hit the sweet spot every time.