ADVERTISEMENT
How to Make Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake
1. Make the Graham Cracker Crust
- Begin by preparing the graham cracker crust. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and the crumbs are moistened.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish, using the back of a spoon or your hands to compact it into an even layer.
- Place the crust in the fridge to chill for at least 15-20 minutes to set while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture. This will give the cheesecake filling a light and airy texture.
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and a few tablespoons of milk to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until everything is well incorporated. This will help the filling set up and give it that creamy, pudding-like texture.
- Once the filling is smooth and fluffy, spread it evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top into an even layer. Place the pan back in the fridge to allow the cheesecake to set for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer
- While the cheesecake filling sets, prepare the banana pudding. Follow the instructions on the instant banana pudding mix package, using milk to make the pudding.
- Once prepared, allow the pudding to cool slightly and thicken up. Then, gently fold in the sliced bananas to the pudding mixture, being careful not to mash them.
- Once the cheesecake layer has set, spread the banana pudding mixture evenly over the cheesecake filling, making sure the bananas are well distributed. Return the dessert to the fridge to chill for another 30 minutes to allow the layers to firm up.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- In a small bowl, heat the strawberry jam in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to thin it out. Stir in a tablespoon of water to make it easier to drizzle.
- Layer the fresh sliced strawberries evenly on top of the banana pudding layer, then drizzle the thin strawberry jam over the top for extra flavor and shine.
5. Assemble and Serve
- Once the dessert has chilled for at least 1-2 hours, it’s time to serve! Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, and transfer it to a serving platter if necessary.
- You can garnish with additional banana slices or whipped cream if desired, but the vibrant strawberries on top are already a stunning finish.
6. Enjoy Your Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake!
- Slice into the layers and enjoy the creamy, dreamy combination of banana pudding, cheesecake, and fresh strawberries. Each bite is a harmonious mix of sweet, fruity, and creamy flavors that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Tips for the Perfect Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake
- Use Ripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe but not overly soft. This will give them the perfect sweetness and texture for the banana pudding layer.
- Let It Set: Don’t rush the chilling process. Allowing each layer to set properly ensures the dessert holds together and that the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Flavor Variations: Want to switch it up? Try using chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a rich, chocolaty twist, or add crushed pineapple into the banana pudding for a tropical flair.
- Make-Ahead: This dessert is great for making ahead of time! You can assemble it a day in advance and let it chill overnight. The flavors will deepen and improve with time.
Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake
- The Ultimate Flavor Fusion: The combination of banana pudding, cheesecake, and strawberries is a flavor explosion that’s both nostalgic and indulgent, and perfect for any occasion.
- Visually Stunning: This dessert looks as good as it tastes! The bright strawberries, creamy layers, and golden banana slices make it a showstopper that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Texture Galore: From the crunchy graham cracker crust to the creamy cheesecake filling, smooth banana pudding, and juicy strawberries, every bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures.
- Easy and Delicious: With its no-bake cheesecake base and simple, fresh ingredients, this dessert is easy to make but still feels like a special treat.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of two classic desserts, taking the best parts of banana pudding and cheesecake and combining them in one show-stopping creation. The smooth cheesecake, banana pudding, and fresh strawberry layers create a rich, indulgent dessert that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to treat yourself, this dessert is guaranteed to impress!
So grab your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and indulge in the deliciousness of Banana Pudding Strawberry Cheesecake today!
ADVERTISEMENT
