Name: Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-483902H19M24S
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup finely chopped roasted peanuts; 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter; 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup dry banana pudding mix; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers; Sliced bananas, for garnish; Additional crushed graham crackers; Chopped peanuts, for garnish

Serving Tips:

Allow the cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving. This ensures the perfect texture and flavor.

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to slice the cheesecake cleanly. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat slices.

Garnish each slice with fresh banana slices, crushed graham crackers, and chopped peanuts for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Serve the cheesecake chilled for the best taste experience. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert combination.

Storage Tips:

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To maintain freshness, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator.

Avoid freezing the cheesecake as it can alter the texture and flavor of the dessert.

If you need to transport the cheesecake, place it in a secure container and keep it chilled with ice packs to maintain its integrity.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices of cheesecake. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw slices in the refrigerator before serving, allowing them to come to room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Related Recipes:

Banana Pudding Cups!

FAQs:

Can I use store-bought banana pudding instead of dry banana pudding mix?

While store-bought banana pudding can be used as a substitute, using dry banana pudding mix enhances the flavor and texture of the cheesecake. If you opt for store-bought pudding, consider reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.

Can I omit the nuts from the crust for a nut-free version?

Yes, you can omit the nuts from the crust if you prefer a nut-free version of the cheesecake. Simply increase the amount of graham cracker crumbs or replace the nuts with an equal amount of additional graham cracker crumbs for the crust.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent your cheesecake from cracking, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking. Gradually cooling the cheesecake in the oven with the door cracked open helps prevent sudden temperature changes, which can also cause cracking.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cheesecake ahead of time. In fact, it’s recommended to refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly before serving. This makes it a convenient dessert option for entertaining, as you can prepare it in advance and focus on other aspects of your meal or event.