Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Cheesecake:
  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
• For the Banana Layer:
  • 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
• For the Topping:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Sliced bananas
  • Caramel sauce (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
   2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake:
   1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
   3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   4. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until well combined.
   5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
5. Cool and Chill:
   1. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
   2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Prepare the Banana Layer:
   1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let it set for 5 minutes.
   2. Spread a layer of sliced bananas over the chilled cheesecake, then top with the pudding mixture.
7. Prepare the Topping:
   1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   2. Spread the whipped cream over the banana layer.
   3. Garnish with additional sliced bananas and drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling time)

Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 12 servings