Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup ripe bananas (mashed, about 2 bananas)
1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
For the Topping:
Sliced bananas
Whipped cream
Additional crushed vanilla wafers
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to form a crust. Bake for about 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas until smooth.
Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Topping:
Once chilled, top the cheesecake with sliced bananas, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.
Serve:
Slice and enjoy your delicious Banana Pudding Cheesecake—a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love!