Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it tightly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the granulated sugar and sour cream to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Do not overmix to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Fold this mixture into the cheesecake batter gently using a rubber spatula.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracks.
- After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Prepare the Topping
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. This will create a stable whipped cream topping.
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
- Garnish with banana slices and sprinkle vanilla wafers on top for added texture.
- Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Notes
For best results, ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture. You can also add a layer of sliced bananas between the cheesecake and whipped cream for extra flavor.
