Description
These Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet, fruity flavor of banana pudding. Featuring a buttery vanilla wafer crust and topped with homemade banana pudding, whipped cream, and fresh banana slices, these individual cheesecakes are perfect for a delightful dessert that’s both elegant and easy to serve.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
Banana Pudding Topping
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/4 cups cold milk
Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Sliced bananas
- Crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to ensure easy removal and portion control.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, sugar, and melted butter until well incorporated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of each cupcake liner to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crusts for 5 minutes to set them, then remove from oven and allow them to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Next, blend in vanilla extract, sour cream, heavy cream, and mashed banana until well combined.
- Fill and Bake Cheesecakes: Spoon the cheesecake mixture into the prepared cupcake liners, filling them almost to the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecakes to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to fully set and chill.
- Prepare Banana Pudding: While the cheesecakes are chilling, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, following package instructions for best results.
- Top Cheesecakes: Spread a layer of the thickened banana pudding over each chilled cheesecake, creating a luscious banana topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by adding a dollop of whipped cream, fresh sliced bananas, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top for added texture and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake the cheesecakes; the centers should have a slight jiggle when you remove them from the oven.
- Chilling the cheesecakes well improves flavor and texture before topping with pudding.
- If fresh bananas brown quickly, toss slices lightly with lemon juice to maintain color.
- This recipe can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American