Description

When you think of Southern desserts, banana pudding is likely one of the first that comes to mind. Its creamy texture and nostalgic flavor have been loved for generations. But what if you could take that same beloved dessert and elevate it into something even more indulgent? Enter the Banana Pudding Cheesecake with Salted Caramel. This is not just a dessert; it's a luxurious fusion of two classic favorites: creamy cheesecake and comforting banana pudding. With the added touch of salted caramel, this dessert is taken to an entirely new level of decadence.

Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
• ½ cup melted butter
• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 package instant banana pudding mix
• 1 cup milk
• Salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Preparation Method

Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until fully incorporated. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Layer the Bananas:
Arrange the banana slices in an even layer on top of the cooled crust. Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the bananas, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Add the Pudding Layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Carefully spread the pudding mixture over the cheesecake layer.

Finish with Cheesecake:
Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the banana pudding layer, gently spreading it to cover the entire surface.

Bake the Cheesecake:
Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 60–70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden on top. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Add the Salted Caramel:
Once the cheesecake has fully set, drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the balance of sweet and salty flavors.

Tips and Conclusion

To achieve a perfect, creamy texture for your cheesecake, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, even consistency. Also, for the best results, avoid over-mixing once the eggs are added, as this can incorporate too much air into the batter, leading to cracks during baking. A water bath is also a great technique to avoid cracking, providing a humid environment while the cheesecake bakes.

This Banana Pudding Cheesecake with Salted Caramel is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves rich, layered flavors. The combination of velvety cheesecake, sweet bananas, and a luscious pudding layer creates a multi-dimensional dessert that offers both comfort and indulgence. The salted caramel topping adds just the right amount of contrast to the sweetness, making each bite truly unforgettable. Whether you're serving this for a special occasion or just as a weeknight treat, this dessert is bound to impress. The next time you’re craving something indulgent yet comforting, reach for this recipe—you won’t be disappointed!