Indulge in the irresistible charm of this Caramel Banana Pudding Cheesecake, a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of banana and caramel with the smoothness of cheesecake. Perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat for any day, this dessert is sure to delight all who taste it.
Servings: 12
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake:
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 box (3.4 ounces) banana cream pudding mix
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Nilla wafers, for garnish
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just enough after each addition. Fold in the mashed bananas and banana cream pudding mix.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to set completely.
- Prepare the Topping: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Decorate the Cheesecake: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Garnish the edges with Nilla wafers and drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
- Serve: Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled. Enjoy the rich and creamy flavors of this delightful dessert.
Chef’s Tips:
- For a smoother cheesecake texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- To prevent cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking pan filled with hot water.
- The cheesecake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together more intensely overnight.
