Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake Recipe

You know that magical feeling when two of your favorite desserts crash into each other and create something outrageously delicious? Yeah, that’s exactly what this Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake does. If you’re a fan of creamy cheesecake and nostalgic banana pudding (who isn’t?), then buckle up, because you’re about to meet your new favorite guilty pleasure.

Oh, and did I mention it’s got a crunchy, buttery layer that’ll make you want to hide this from your family and eat it all in your closet? Not that I’ve done that… 😏

So, let’s break this down together — because honestly, why wouldn’t we?

Why Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake Slaps So Hard

Alright, let’s just say it outright: this dessert is over-the-top in the best way possible.
But why is it so good? Ever wondered what makes it such a crowd-pleaser?

Here’s the rundown:

• Creamy cheesecake base — classic, rich, and smooth.
• Sweet banana pudding layer — light and nostalgic, just like grandma used to make.
• Crunchy vanilla wafer crust & topping — because who doesn’t love a little texture in their dessert?
• Whipped cream and caramel drizzle (optional) — because obviously, extra calories don’t count when it’s this good.

See? You basically get three desserts in one. And if that doesn’t scream “worth it,” I don’t know what does.

 

Ingredients You’ll Need for Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake

Before we jump into the recipe itself, let me help you get your grocery game together. Don’t worry — no weird, fancy ingredients here.

For the crust:

• 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter

 

For the cheesecake:

• 3 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the banana pudding layer:

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 2-3 ripe bananas, sliced

For the crunch topping:

• 1 cup vanilla wafer crumbs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Optional toppings (because why not?):

• Whipped cream
• Caramel drizzle
• Extra banana slices

Pro tip: if you’re feeling fancy (or just showing off on Instagram), add toasted coconut flakes for some flair.

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Slice of Heaven

Okay, here’s where the magic happens. Follow these steps, and you’ll basically become a dessert wizard. 🪄

Step 1: Prepare the crust

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• In a bowl, mix vanilla wafer crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it looks like wet sand.
• Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. (Use the bottom of a glass for even pressure — thank me later.)
• Bake for about 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the cheesecake layer

• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well.
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla.
• Pour this mixture over the cooled crust.
• Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly.
• Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool slowly for about an hour (prevents cracks, FYI).

Step 3: Whip up the banana pudding

• While the cheesecake is cooling, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk. Let it set for about 5 minutes.
• Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread a layer of sliced bananas over it, then pour the banana pudding on top.

Step 4: Add that glorious crunch topping

• In a bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter.
• Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the banana pudding layer.

Step 5: Chill and serve

• Chill the whole cheesecake in the fridge for at least 4 hours — overnight if you’re patient (I’m not).
• Before serving, dollop with whipped cream, drizzle with caramel, and throw on a few banana slices for good measure.

Boom. You’re done. Now go ahead and pat yourself on the back — you’ve just created a masterpiece.

Tips & Tricks to Level Up Your Banana Pudding Cheesecake Game

Want to take it from “amazing” to “are-you-kidding-me-this-is-insane”? Yeah, I thought so.

Here are some pro tips:

• Use super ripe bananas for the best flavor. (You know, the ones you almost threw out.)
• If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cheesecake as your base and just add the banana pudding and crunch layers.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the crust for a little extra oomph.
• Don’t skip the chilling step. I know it’s hard, but trust me — warm cheesecake is not cute.

Why This Dessert Beats the Rest

Look, I’ve made my fair share of desserts — some flops, some okay-ish, and a few that made my friends think I was some kind of culinary goddess (which I totally didn’t correct them on). This Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake? It’s the one.

Why?

• It combines textures — creamy, crunchy, fluffy — and they all play so well together.
• It’s a guaranteed conversation starter at any gathering. (“OMG, did you make this?!” Yes. Yes, you did.)
• You can make it ahead of time, which is great for when you’re trying to impress but also want to nap before guests arrive.

And let’s be real — who even remembers plain cheesecake after they’ve tasted this beauty? 🤷

Common Mistakes to Avoid (So You Don’t Cry Later)

Trust me, I’ve messed this up before, so here’s how you can avoid my kitchen fails:

• Don’t overbake the cheesecake — you want it just slightly jiggly in the center.
• Don’t layer the pudding until the cheesecake is fully cooled — otherwise, it’ll melt into a soupy mess.
• Don’t use unripe bananas — unless you’re into bland and chalky.
• Don’t skimp on the chilling time — patience = perfection here.

What to Serve With Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake

You technically don’t need anything else — this dessert steals the show all by itself.
But if you’re feeling extra:

• A cup of strong coffee or espresso balances the sweetness.
• A glass of milk (classic) or even a little glass of bourbon for the adults.
• Fresh berries on the side if you want to pretend you’re eating healthy.

Related Recipes

• Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cups Recipe
• Skinny Coconut Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Final Thoughts about Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake

So, what do you think? Feeling inspired (or at least hungry)? If you ask me, this Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake deserves a spot in your dessert hall of fame. It’s creamy, dreamy, nostalgic, and just crunchy enough to make you want to fight your cousin for the last slice. IMO, it’s totally worth the effort. 🙂

If you do try it, let me know how it goes — bonus points if you share a pic and make all your Instagram followers jealous.

Now go grab those bananas before they turn into compost. Happy baking, my friend!

TL;DR (because who doesn’t love a cheat sheet?)

• Creamy cheesecake + banana pudding + crunchy topping = epic dessert.
• Use ripe bananas and chill overnight for best results.
• Don’t overbake the cheesecake.
• Serve it with coffee, milk, or just your bare hands — no judgment.

If you loved this recipe (and why wouldn’t you?), don’t forget to bookmark it for next time or share it with someone who needs a little sweetness in their life. You’ll thank me later.

Now excuse me while I “taste-test” another slice… purely for quality control purposes, of course.