This Banana Cream Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet, comforting flavor of bananas. With its buttery vanilla wafer crust, smooth banana-infused filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping, it’s an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – A decadent cheesecake base balanced by light banana flavor.
• Comforting Flavor – Combines the nostalgia of banana cream pie with the luxury of cheesecake.
• Beautiful Presentation – Topped with whipped cream and banana slices.
• Perfect for Celebrations – A crowd-pleasing dessert for holidays, birthdays, or gatherings.

Banana Cream Cheesecake

Banana cream desserts hold a special place in the hearts of many, often reminding us of homemade pies and family gatherings. This Banana Cream Cheesecake takes that nostalgic flavor and elevates it into something even more indulgent.

At its base, this recipe uses a vanilla wafer crust. The buttery crunch of the cookies pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and provides a sturdy foundation that holds up well under the rich layers.

The cheesecake filling is where the magic happens. Cream cheese, sugar, and eggs are blended into a smooth, velvety mixture. Mashed ripe bananas are folded in, infusing the cheesecake with natural sweetness and a distinct banana flavor.

Baking the cheesecake low and slow ensures the filling sets properly while remaining creamy and luscious. Once cooled, it develops that classic cheesecake texture—firm enough to slice, yet soft and melt-in-your-mouth.

To add lightness, the cheesecake is topped with a layer of fluffy whipped cream. This balances the richness of the filling and adds an airy, cloud-like contrast to the dense cheesecake beneath.

Fresh banana slices make the perfect garnish, offering both beauty and a burst of fresh fruit flavor. For extra texture, crushed vanilla wafers can be sprinkled over the top.

The result is a dessert that bridges comfort and luxury. It has the hominess of banana pudding or banana cream pie, but with the indulgent density of cheesecake.

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. Cheesecake benefits from chilling overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen and the texture to set perfectly.

This makes it an excellent dessert for entertaining, as you can prepare it the day before and simply add whipped cream and garnish before serving.

Banana Cream Cheesecake is also versatile. For those who like extra flavor, a drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate shavings on top can take it to another level.

The combination of flavors—banana, vanilla, cream cheese, and whipped topping—creates a balance that appeals to both fruit lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike.

With its creamy layers, nostalgic flavor, and elegant appearance, this cheesecake is bound to become a favorite recipe in your collection.

Servings

Makes about 12 servings.

Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Bake Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: About 6 hours

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Filling

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• Fresh banana slices (for garnish)
• Crushed vanilla wafers (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. For crust: Mix crushed vanilla wafers, melted butter, and sugar. Press into bottom of pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
5. Fold in mashed bananas and vanilla extract until combined.
6. Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.
7. Bake 70 minutes, or until center is set but slightly jiggly.
8. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
9. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
10. Before serving, whip cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over cheesecake.
11. Garnish with banana slices and crushed wafers.

Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracks.
• Chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
• Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.