Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares

Step-by-step Instructions

Preheat your oven. Set it to 300°F (150°C). While the oven warms up, prepare an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, light brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is mixed well. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Chill it in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually blend in the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Gently fold in the mashed bananas until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Combine and bake. Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the edges are firm and the top is lightly golden.
Cool and chill. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow it to set.
Slice and serve. Lift the cheesecake out of the dish using the parchment paper. Slice it into squares and serve chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a slice of banana on top.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are a treat on their own, but you can elevate them with just a few creative touches! Consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed walnuts for added texture. They’re also delicious when served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or paired with fresh fruit.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store any leftovers (if you have them!), cut the squares and place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to minimize sticking. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-5 days in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They should keep well for up to three months.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To achieve the best results, here are a few handy cooking tips:

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
When mashing bananas, try to make them as smooth as possible; this will enhance the creaminess of the filling.
If you’re in a hurry, consider using a food processor to combine your crust ingredients.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? You might want to try variations such as:

Incorporating a layer of vanilla pudding on top of the cheesecake before serving.
Mixing in some chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate-banana combo.
Swapping out the traditional bananas for other fruits like strawberries or peaches for a seasonal twist.