No Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake

This no bake banana pudding cheesecake has quickly become a favorite in my house thanks to its layers of creamy cheesecake and nostalgic banana pudding flavors. It is the perfect make ahead dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want something impressive but easy.

My family requests this every Easter and birthday. The first time I made it, everyone went back for seconds and there was not a crumb left after dinner.

Ingredients

• Vanilla wafers: These create that classic sweet and crunchy base. Look for ones that are crisp and fresh not stale
• Melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and binds the crust. Real butter gives the best flavor here
• Granulated sugar: Boosts the sweetness and helps the crust hold together for cleaner slices
• Cream cheese: Full fat and fully softened cream cheese is key for a smooth creamy filling
• Sweetened condensed milk: Gives luscious texture and sweetness without needing to bake
• Heavy whipping cream: Must be cold and fresh to whip up light and fluffy so the cheesecake is not dense
• Instant banana pudding mix: Brings classic banana pudding flavor and thickens the filling
• Vanilla extract: Pure or high quality vanilla enhances all the other flavors
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness so the cheesecake is never cloying
• Ripe but firm bananas: Essential for real banana flavor and the best texture Look for yellow bananas with only a few brown speckles
• Extra vanilla wafers: For layering and garnish Look for whole unbroken cookies for a pretty finish
• Whipped cream or Cool Whip: For topping and an extra creamy touch Totally optional but so good and pretty
• More vanilla wafer crumbs: For garnish and a touch of crunch

Instructions

Prepare the Vanilla Wafer Crust:

Pulse the vanilla wafers in a food processor until fine or crush in a zip top bag with a rolling pin. Combine in a bowl with melted butter and sugar. Mix until all crumbs are moistened and look like wet sand

Press the Crust into the Pan:

Firmly and evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan using a measuring cup or glass for an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the rest

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large bowl beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and no lumps remain. Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk until fully blended scraping the bowl to get every bit mixed in

Whip the Heavy Cream:

In a cold clean bowl whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks with a mixer. The cream should hold its shape when you lift the whisk

Combine Filling Ingredients:

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese filling in two additions keeping it airy. Add pudding mix vanilla and lemon juice then gently fold again until just blended with no streaks visible

Assemble the Banana Pudding Cheesecake:

Spread a layer of sliced bananas on the chilled crust. Add a layer of vanilla wafers over the bananas. Spread half the cheesecake filling evenly over this. Add another layer of sliced bananas and vanilla wafers then top with the remaining filling spreading it smooth

Chill the Cheesecake:

Cover tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or best left overnight. The chilling helps the cheesecake set up and hold its shape for perfect slices

Garnish and Serve:

Remove the pan ring by running a thin spatula around the edge. Top with whipped cream more sliced bananas and cookie crumbs just before serving. Slice with a hot clean knife for neat portions

One of my favorite parts is the layer of sliced bananas in the middle which always stays fresh and sweet. My daughter loves crushing the cookies and building the layers together each time we make this recipe

Storage Tips

Store leftover cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The banana slices stay freshest if you wait to add extra garnish until just before serving. To freeze slice the chilled cheesecake and wrap each piece tightly for a quick future treat. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap shortbread cookies for the vanilla wafers if you prefer a more buttery crust. For a lighter filling you can use light cream cheese but the texture will be less rich. If fresh bananas are not available try layering with sliced strawberries for a fun twist

Serving Suggestions

For a festive finish pipe whipped cream rosettes and add extra cookies on top. I love to drizzle a little caramel over the slices right before serving for a sweet and salty kick. Mini versions in jars are perfect for lunchbox desserts or picnics

Cultural and Historical Context

Banana pudding is a Southern classic known for its creamy texture and nostalgic mood. Combining it with dreamy cheesecake makes this a dessert mashup that brings two great traditions together in every bite. It is the sort of recipe that feels right at home at a summer reunion or holiday feast

Seasonal Adaptations

Add a layer of fresh summer berries with the bananas for a seasonal twist For autumn use shortbread cookies and a pinch of cinnamon in the crust In winter top with chocolate curls and serve with coffee for a cozy touch

Success Stories

Friends have asked for this at every potluck and I am happy to share. It always draws recipe requests and there are never leftovers. One family friend said it reminded her of her grandmother’s banana pudding but better

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let the cheesecake set fully in the fridge then slice and wrap each piece tightly before freezing. For last minute gatherings just thaw overnight and finish with whipped cream and cookies. Handy for busy weeks and a sweet reward for later

This no bake banana pudding cheesecake is easy and sure to impress for any occasion. With its nostalgic flavors make ahead ease and layered look it is always a crowd pleaser.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of bananas work best for this dessert?

Choose ripe but firm bananas to ensure they provide sweetness and structure without becoming mushy during layering and chilling.

→ How can I prevent the sliced bananas from browning?

Lightly toss the banana slices in a splash of fresh lemon juice before assembling to help retain their color and freshness.

→ Is there a substitute for vanilla wafers in the crust?

Graham crackers or shortbread cookies can be used in place of vanilla wafers for a different but delicious flavor and texture.

→ How long should the dessert chill before serving?

Chill the assembled dessert for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop the ideal creamy consistency.

→ Can this dessert be made ahead of time?

Yes, it's ideal for preparing in advance. Simply garnish with whipped cream and cookie crumbs just before serving to maintain the best texture and presentation.

→ Do you need to use a springform pan?

A springform pan is recommended for easy removal, but a deep pie dish or square baking pan can also be used if lined with parchment for easier serving.