Caramel Banana Pudding Cheesecake
This Caramel Banana Pudding Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich banana-infused cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel drizzle, this dessert is a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and decadent flavors. Whether for a special occasion or just because, this cheesecake will have everyone coming back for seconds!
INGREDIENTS:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup mashed ripe bananas
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 (3.4 oz) box banana pudding mix
¾ cup whole milk
For the Caramel Topping:
½ cup caramel sauce
1 tablespoon heavy cream (for extra smooth caramel, optional)
For Garnish:
Sliced bananas
Whipped cream
Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
DIRECTIONS:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
Mix in vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt).
In a separate bowl, whisk banana pudding mix and milk until combined, then fold into the cheesecake batter.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust.
Place the springform pan in a water bath (wrap the bottom in foil and place in a larger pan with 1 inch of water).
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
4. Chill & Add Caramel:
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and spread evenly over the top.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with sliced bananas, whipped cream, and crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers!
Slice and enjoy this creamy, dreamy caramel banana cheesecake!