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Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars

Section: Indulgent Desserts for Sweet Endings

These banana cream cheesecake bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich baked cheesecake layer and a smooth banana pudding topping. Finished with sliced bananas and whipped cream they are chilled to perfection for a dessert that is creamy comforting and crowd pleasing. Make ahead for parties or special gatherings for easy serving and maximum flavor impact.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Mon, 07 Jul 2025 13:40:12 GMT
A slice of banana cream cheesecake bars. Bookmark
A slice of banana cream cheesecake bars. | ioanacooks.com

These banana cream cheesecake bars are all about indulgence layered with simplicity. A buttery graham base holds up the rich tang of cheesecake and the nostalgic flavor of banana pudding. Whether it is a casual weekend bake or a special sweet for a gathering these bars strike the perfect balance between creamy comfort and elegant bite.

I made these for a last minute picnic and they disappeared fast. The banana cream topping made everyone nostalgic for classic desserts with a twist.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs: provide a crisp buttery base that holds together well when pressed and baked
  • Granulated sugar: sweetens both the crust and the cheesecake layers evenly
  • Unsalted butter: binds the crumbs and adds richness to the crust
  • Cream cheese: forms the core of the creamy layer so use full fat for best texture
  • Eggs: give structure and help the cheesecake set without being too firm
  • Vanilla extract: lifts the flavor and enhances both cream and banana notes
  • Heavy cream: adds lightness and balances the texture of the banana pudding topping
  • Banana pudding mix: thickens into a flavorful creamy topping in minutes
  • Cold milk: helps the pudding set up properly so it spreads smoothly
  • Ripe bananas: add freshness and real fruit flavor to the final topping
  • Whipped cream: makes the bars feel extra indulgent with a soft airy finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit then mix graham cracker crumbs sugar and melted butter in a medium bowl until it resembles wet sand Press firmly into a lined baking dish and bake for ten minutes to set the base then allow it to cool completely
Make the Cheesecake Layer
Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until fully smooth then add eggs one at a time mixing well between each Stir in vanilla and pour over the cooled crust Bake again for twenty five to thirty minutes until the center is just set and then cool to room temperature
Prepare the Banana Cream Layer
Whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk for about two minutes until thickened Spoon the pudding over the cooled cheesecake layer and spread it evenly using a spatula
Chill and Serve
Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least four hours or overnight This allows all layers to firm up properly for clean slicing and the flavors to fully settle
Slice and Enjoy
Just before serving top with freshly sliced bananas and whipped cream Slice into neat bars and serve cold for best texture and presentation
A slice of banana cream cheesecake bars. Bookmark
A slice of banana cream cheesecake bars. | ioanacooks.com

I always keep instant banana pudding on hand for this It is such a shortcut and takes the flavor from good to amazing My kids especially love the soft bite of the bananas with the cool creamy texture underneath

Storage Tips

These bars are best stored tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and texture They last well for up to three days but be sure to add fresh banana slices just before serving to prevent browning

Ingredient Substitutions

If graham crackers are not available use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a similar buttery crunch For a slightly less sweet finish swap the pudding mix for homemade banana custard

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars chilled with extra whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed cookies on top They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or an iced latte on a warm day

A slice of banana cream cheesecake bars. Bookmark
A slice of banana cream cheesecake bars. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

This dessert bridges old fashioned banana cream pie with classic cheesecake bars giving it a nostalgic yet modern appeal Its layered presentation and familiar flavors make it popular across generations

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh bananas in the cheesecake layer?

Yes you can fold in finely chopped fresh bananas into the cheesecake batter for added banana flavor and texture.

→ How long do these bars need to chill?

They should chill for at least 4 hours but overnight refrigeration gives the best results and firm texture.

→ Can I use a different crust base?

Yes digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers are great alternatives to graham crackers for the crust.

→ How do I prevent bananas from browning?

Add banana slices just before serving and consider brushing them lightly with lemon juice for freshness.

→ Can I freeze the bars?

Freezing is not recommended as the pudding and banana layers may separate or change texture after thawing.

Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars

Creamy layered banana bars with cheesecake and pudding over a buttery graham cracker crust.

Time Needed to Prep
25 minutes
Cooking Duration
40 minutes
Overall Time
65 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Desserts

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 9 How Many It Serves (9 bars)

Dietary Preferences: Made for Vegetarians

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Crust

Ingredient 01 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Ingredient 02 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Ingredient 03 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Layer

Ingredient 04 16 oz cream cheese, softened
Ingredient 05 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Ingredient 06 2 large eggs
Ingredient 07 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Banana Cream Layer

Ingredient 08 1/2 cup heavy cream
Ingredient 09 1 box instant banana pudding mix
Ingredient 10 1 1/2 cups cold milk

→ Topping

Ingredient 11 3 ripe bananas, sliced
Ingredient 12 Whipped cream, for topping

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.

Step 02

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract. Pour mixture over cooled crust and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until set. Cool completely.

Step 03

Whisk banana pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Spread evenly over cooled cheesecake layer.

Step 04

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.

Step 05

Before serving, top with sliced bananas and whipped cream. Slice into bars and serve.

Extra Tips

  1. Add banana slices just before serving to prevent browning.
  2. These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  3. Graham crackers can be substituted with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Whisk
  • 9×9-inch baking dish
  • Refrigerator

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from cream cheese, heavy cream, and whipped cream
  • Contains eggs
  • May contain gluten from graham crackers

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 310
  • Total Fat: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 34 grams
  • Protein Amount: 5 grams