This No Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of creamy banana pudding and rich cheesecake, all set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. With no oven required, this dessert is easy to prepare and delivers a luscious texture with a delightful banana flavor. Topped with fresh bananas, whipped cream, and crunchy vanilla wafers, it’s a show-stopping treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Oven Needed – Perfect for warm days or when you need a hassle-free dessert.
- Creamy & Smooth – Combines the richness of cheesecake with the lightness of banana pudding.
- Perfect for Banana Lovers – Full of real banana flavor and topped with fresh bananas.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert – Ideal for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and let it set in the fridge until ready to serve.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 2 large bananas, sliced
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Vanilla wafers for garnish
- Sliced bananas for garnish
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a firm crust.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- In another bowl, whisk banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Add the banana pudding to the cheesecake mixture and stir until smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and fold in sliced bananas.
3. Assemble & Chill
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
4. Garnish & Serve
- Before serving, top with whipped cream, vanilla wafers, and fresh banana slices.
- Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Banana Cheesecake: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or mix in chocolate chips.
- Strawberry Banana Version: Layer sliced strawberries with the bananas for extra fruity flavor.
- Oreo Crust Alternative: Use crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for a chocolatey base.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
- Healthier Version: Use light cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: No reheating needed—serve chilled for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh banana puree instead of pudding mix?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. The pudding mix helps stabilize the cheesecake.
How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the cheesecake.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best when chilled overnight, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
What’s the best way to slice this cheesecake?
Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for the best presentation.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Yes, but homemade whipped cream provides a fresher taste and better texture.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Can I add a caramel drizzle?
Definitely! Caramel sauce pairs beautifully with banana flavors.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
Use a regular pie dish, but slicing may be trickier.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes! Cool Whip is a great shortcut if you’re short on time.
How long does this cheesecake need to chill?
At least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is best for a firmer texture.
Conclusion
This No Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a dreamy, creamy dessert that’s easy to make and full of banana flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dessert, or just craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress. With a velvety smooth filling, crunchy crust, and banana-infused goodness, it’s the ultimate no-bake treat!
PrintNo Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a creamy, delicious dessert that combines the classic flavors of banana pudding with the rich texture of cheesecake. Made with a graham cracker crust, smooth banana-flavored filling, and a light whipped topping, this easy-to-make, no-bake treat is perfect for banana lovers. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a quick and indulgent dessert, this cheesecake is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
Whipped Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Add-Ins & Garnish
- 2 large bananas, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
- Vanilla wafers (for garnish)
- Sliced bananas (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk banana pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
- Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
- In another bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cheesecake filling for a light, airy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Layer sliced bananas over the chilled graham cracker crust.
- Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the bananas.
- Top with remaining whipped cream and smooth it out.
- Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Before serving, garnish with vanilla wafers and additional banana slices.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy this creamy, no-bake banana pudding cheesecake!
Notes
- Prevent bananas from browning: Lightly brush banana slices with lemon juice.
- Make it extra indulgent: Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers.
- Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
- Crust alternative: Use vanilla wafer crumbs instead of graham crackers for an extra banana pudding vibe.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- chill time: 4 hours
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American