No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake

No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake

Looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, no oven required, and absolutely indulgent? Enter the no-bake banana pudding cheesecake. Combining the creamy, rich texture of cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding, this sweet treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s perfect for warm days when turning on the oven feels like a chore.

This comprehensive step-by-step guide will show you how to whip up a no-bake banana pudding cheesecake recipe that’s simple yet stunning. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, you’ll find this dessert foolproof—and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses easily accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make your banana pudding cheesecake no bake dessert come to life.

For the Crust

  • 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 50 wafers)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk (perfect for that no bake banana pudding cheesecake with condensed milk texture)
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
  • 1 cup cold milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

For the Topping

  • Additional whipped topping
  • Banana slices
  • Vanilla wafers or crushed wafers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect no-bake banana pudding cheesecake recipe from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Crush vanilla wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and rolling over it with a rolling pin.
  2. Combine the crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to set.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
  2. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined and creamy.
  3. Prepare the instant banana pudding mix according to package instructions, using 1 cup of cold milk instead of 2 cups for a firmer texture.
  4. Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Add the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  5. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

  1. Spread a third of the filling over the chilled crust.
  2. Add a single layer of banana slices on top of the filling.
  3. Repeat these layers (filling and bananas) until all filling is used, ending with a layer of filling on top to ensure a smooth finish.

Step 4: Chill and Decorate

  1. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for the best results. This will help the cheesecake set fully.
  2. Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Spread whipped topping over the surface.
  3. Garnish with freshly sliced bananas and vanilla wafers or crumbs.

Pro tip: If you’d like to serve banana pudding cheesecake bars no bake style, divide the recipe into a square baking dish instead of a springform pan and cut it into squares once set.


Tips for Success

Achieving a perfect no-bake banana pudding cheesecake is easier than you think. Here are a few tips to make it foolproof every time.

  • Use ripe, but firm bananas to avoid overly mushy textures when layering.
  • Chill the crust thoroughly before adding the filling to ensure a sturdy base.
  • Don’t rush the chilling process. Allow the cheesecake to set for at least 4-6 hours, or better yet, overnight.
  • Whip the cream cheese well to avoid lumps in the filling—this step is key to a smooth texture.
  • Work quickly with bananas—their slices can brown fast, so layer them promptly after cutting.

Variations to Try

Want to put your own spin on this banana pudding cheesecake recipe no bake treat? Give these variations a try.

1. Chocolate-Banana Fusion

Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the crust mix for a chocolatey twist. You could also sprinkle mini chocolate chips between the layers for added richness.

2. Peanut Butter Lover’s Delight

Swirl a few tablespoons of creamy peanut butter into the filling for a flavor combo that pairs perfectly with bananas.

3. Strawberry-Banana Option

Replace half of the sliced bananas with fresh strawberries for a fruity twist.

4. Mini Cheesecakes

Create individual servings by pressing crust into cupcake liners and layering the cheesecake in smaller portions. Perfect for parties.


Why You’ll Love This Dessert

One of the reasons this dessert is so popular is its simplicity. No-bake desserts like this one fit seamlessly into busy schedules. Plus, the creamy filling combined with the crunch of the vanilla wafers is a texture match made in heaven. Whether it’s for a family gathering, summer picnic, or just a sweet craving, this no bake banana cheesecake pudding will win everyone over.


The Final Scoop

Making this no bake banana pudding cheesecake recipe is as satisfying as eating it. It’s minimal effort, maximum flavor, and endlessly customizable. Plus, it’s great for those of us who’d rather take a break from the oven while still impressing our taste buds—and our guests!

Try it today, and don’t forget to share this banana pudding cheesecake no bake goodness with family and friends. Whether you make the classic version or get creative with variations, this no-bake dessert will always be a hit.

Leave a Comment