Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares Recipe

Welcome to our delightful dessert section! Today, we’re sharing a recipe for Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares. These luscious squares combine the rich flavors of banana pudding and cheesecake on a buttery blondie crust. Perfect for parties or a sweet treat at home, these squares are sure to be a hit. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Blondie Crust:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup mashed ripe banana
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Topping:

• 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
• 16 ounces cream cheese (2 blocks), softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 (3.4 ounce) box instant banana pudding powder
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: Powdered sugar for extra sweetness
• Garnish: Nilla wafers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Blondie Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until well combined.
3. Add Egg Yolk: Add the egg yolk and whisk until smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the flour and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Add Banana and Vanilla: Fold in the mashed ripe banana and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
6. Bake: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the crust cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Topping

1. Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Pudding Mix: Add the instant banana pudding powder and milk to the cream cheese mixture, and beat until fully combined and smooth.
4. Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain.
5. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

1. Spread Topping: Spread the cheesecake topping evenly over the cooled blondie crust.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 3 hours, or until set.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Just before serving, garnish with Nilla wafers and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
2. Cut into Squares: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor in the blondie crust.
• Chilling Time: Make sure to allow enough chilling time for the cheesecake topping to set properly.
• Serving: These squares are best served chilled. Keep any leftovers refrigerated.

Variations

Chocolate Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the blondie crust mixture for a chocolatey twist.

Nutty Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

Fold 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the blondie crust mixture for added crunch.

Tropical Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

Top the finished squares with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.

Extra Fruity Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

Fold in sliced fresh bananas into the cheesecake topping before chilling for extra banana goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use a graham cracker crust or a cookie crust instead of the blondie crust if you prefer.

How do I store these squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, add the Nilla wafers just before serving to keep them crisp.

Can I freeze these cheesecake squares?

Yes, you can freeze the squares. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I use instead of Nilla wafers for garnish?

You can use crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, or fresh banana slices as alternative garnishes.

How do I ensure the cheesecake topping sets properly?

Make sure to chill the assembled dessert for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to ensure the cheesecake topping sets firmly.

These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are a delicious and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich banana flavor and creamy cheesecake topping on a buttery blondie crust, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful squares with your family and friends!