Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares Recipe

Q: Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9x13-inch pan and double all ingredients. Baking time for the cheesecake layer may need to be increased by 5–10 minutes—just keep an eye on it.

Posted on April 21, 2025

Close-up of banana pudding cheesecake squares topped with whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers

Dessert

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If banana pudding and cheesecake had a delicious dessert baby, it would be these Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares! They’re creamy, dreamy, and layered with sweet banana flavor and a buttery vanilla wafer crust. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just because—you only need a few simple ingredients to whip up this crowd-pleaser. These no-fuss squares come together easily and chill beautifully, making them a go-to dessert for when you want something both nostalgic and indulgent.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

No fancy skills needed – This recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.
Big banana flavor – With real bananas and banana pudding mix, every bite is packed with sweet, creamy goodness.
Perfect make-ahead dessert – These bars need chill time, so they’re ideal for prepping the night before.
Crowd favorite – Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a holiday gathering, these cheesecake squares always disappear fast.
Easily customizable – You can switch up the crust, topping, or even add a swirl of chocolate!

Ingredients

This recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients and pantry staples to create a layered dessert that’s full of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

What You’ll Need to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares — All the goodies you need—creamy, dreamy, and packed with banana flavor!

For the Crust:

2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies (about 50 cookies)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ripe banana, mashed

For the Banana Pudding Layer:

1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
1 1/2 cups cold milk
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Optional Toppings:

Extra whipped topping
Crushed vanilla wafers
Banana slices (add just before serving)

Instructions

These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares come together in layers, and each step is super simple. Let’s get baking!

Layering banana pudding cheesecake bars with crust, filling, and topping — Building delicious layers—crust, cheesecake, pudding, and all the goodness in between!

Step-by-Step:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafers and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the cheesecake layer:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla extract and mashed banana until fully incorporated.
Pour over crust:
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the baked crust. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are just starting to brown.
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or until fully chilled).
Make the banana pudding layer:
In a bowl, whisk the banana pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thick. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping gently until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the top layer:
Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Chill again for at least 1 more hour, or overnight for best results.
Top & serve:
Add a dollop of whipped topping, crushed wafers, and fresh banana slices just before serving if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe is perfect for feeding a small crowd or saving for sweet treats throughout the week!

Servings: Makes 9–12 squares, depending on how big you slice them.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 3–4 hours minimum (or overnight for best results)
Total Time: About 4–5 hours including chilling

These cheesecake squares are totally worth the wait—trust me!

Tips and Variations

Make it extra banana-y: Add an extra mashed banana to the cheesecake layer for a deeper banana flavor.
Try a graham cracker crust: Swap out vanilla wafers for graham crackers if that’s what you have on hand.
Mini version: Use a muffin tin with liners for individual cheesecake bites—perfect for parties!
Top it off: Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an indulgent twist.
No Cool Whip? Use homemade whipped cream (just whip 1 cup heavy cream + 2 tbsp powdered sugar).
Add texture: Layer in some sliced bananas or extra crushed wafers between the cheesecake and pudding for a little crunch.

Storage

These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares store beautifully—making them a great make-ahead dessert!

In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to cover well to keep them from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Avoid adding bananas on top until serving: Fresh banana slices tend to brown quickly, so it’s best to add them just before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake base (before adding the pudding layer) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then top with pudding before serving for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use banana extract instead of real bananas?

Yes! If you want a more intense banana flavor or don’t have ripe bananas, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of banana extract to the cheesecake layer.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just swap the vanilla wafers for your favorite gluten-free cookies and make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredients. Baking time for the cheesecake layer may need to be increased by 5–10 minutes—just keep an eye on it.

What kind of banana pudding mix should I use?

Instant banana pudding mix works best here. Avoid the cook-and-serve variety since it won’t set the same way.

Can I use real whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yep! Just make sure it’s stabilized if you’re making ahead, so it holds up in the fridge.

Can I skip the pudding layer?

You can! It’ll be more of a banana cheesecake bar—but still super delicious.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill the bars thoroughly, then use a sharp knife cleaned with warm water between cuts for smooth edges.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are the ultimate dessert mashup: creamy, nostalgic, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re making them for a party, a picnic, or a cozy night in, they’re guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re super easy to make ahead, which means less stress and more dessert joy.

Craving more tasty recipes? Follow @butteryrecipes on Pinterest and Facebook for daily inspiration!

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares Recipe

Why You’ll Love Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares