Decadent Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars combine the buttery crunch of a Nilla Wafer crust with a creamy, banana-flavored cheesecake filling. These no-bake bars are the ultimate dessert for banana lovers, offering rich, indulgent flavors and a silky texture that’s hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and banana flavor.
No baking required—great for warm days or when you’re short on time.
Ideal for sharing at gatherings or as a make-ahead dessert.
A customizable treat with optional garnishes like whipped topping and fresh banana slices.
Simple to make, yet looks and tastes like an impressive dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups Nilla Wafer cookie crumbs (approximately one 11-ounce box)
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 pint heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup sugar
24 ounces cream cheese (3 8-ounce packages), softened
2 packages instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
Optional garnish: whipped topping and banana slices
Directions
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Nilla Wafer crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Chill the crust in the refrigerator or freezer while preparing the filling.
In a large metal mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and sugar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
In another large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the dry pudding mixes, mixing well between each addition.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight, to set.
Once set, cut the cheesecake into 9 squares. Garnish with whipped topping and banana slices if desired. Serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 9 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Calories: Estimated 400-500 kcal per serving
Variations
Different Pudding Flavors: Swap the banana cream pudding for vanilla or chocolate for a different twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free vanilla cookies in place of Nilla Wafers.
Layered Look: Add a thin layer of sliced bananas between the crust and the cheesecake filling for extra banana flavor.
Topping Options: Try a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce instead of whipped topping.
Larger Batch: Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan to make more servings.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Keep the cheesecake bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the bars (without garnishes) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: These bars are served cold, so no reheating is needed.
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FAQs
How can I prevent the crust from falling apart?
Make sure the melted butter is evenly mixed with the Nilla Wafer crumbs and press the crust firmly into the pan. Chilling the crust helps it hold together better.
Can I use fresh bananas in the filling?
Fresh bananas can alter the texture of the cheesecake filling, so it’s best to use banana cream pudding for the flavor. You can layer fresh bananas between the crust and filling for added texture.
What’s the best way to cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts to get neat, clean edges on each bar.
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! Graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies make excellent substitutes.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for preparing the day before an event, as they need at least 8 hours to chill and set in the fridge.
Conclusion
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate no-bake dessert for any occasion. With their buttery crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and irresistible banana flavor, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether for a family gathering or a weeknight treat, these bars will leave everyone asking for seconds.
📖 Recipe
Print
BANANA CREAM CHEESECAKE BARS
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars are a dreamy, no-bake dessert featuring a buttery Nilla Wafer crust and a creamy, banana-flavored cheesecake filling. Perfect for gatherings or make-ahead treats, these decadent bars are loaded with indulgent banana flavor and topped with optional garnishes like whipped cream and fresh banana slices.
Ingredients
3 cups Nilla Wafer cookie crumbs (approximately one 11-ounce box)
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 pint heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup sugar
24 ounces cream cheese (3 8-ounce packages), softened
2 packages instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
Optional garnish: whipped topping and banana slices
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Combine Nilla Wafer crumbs and melted butter. Press into an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Chill.
- Whip Cream: In a metal bowl, whip heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Mix Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in banana pudding.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
- Assemble Bars: Spread filling over crust. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Slice into 9 bars. Add garnishes as desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
Chill crust thoroughly to ensure stability.
For clean cuts, use a warm, sharp knife and wipe between cuts.
Garnish just before serving to keep toppings fresh.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake, Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9 bars
