Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake a Slice of Southern Comfort
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: A Slice of Southern Comfort
Ever find yourself craving something comforting and decadent? Okay, right then! Let's get this sorted. This banana pudding crunch cheesecake recipe is where Southern charm meets cheesecake perfection.
This dessert combines creamy banana pudding with rich cheesecake and a crunchy pecan streusel.
This Southern dessert recipe has roots in classic banana pudding and American cheesecake traditions. Baking a cheesecake might seem intimidating, but don't worry.
This recipe is medium difficulty. You will need about 2 hours 45 minutes, plus chill time. It will yield 12 servings, so it is perfect for sharing.
The Magic of Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake
Honestly, the best thing about this recipe? It's a total crowd pleaser. The top health benefit? Well, it will boost your mood for sure!.
Serve it at your next Southern Dessert Recipe get-together. What makes this recipe special is how it blends textures and flavors into one unforgettable treat.
Why This Recipe Rocks
Think of this as a grown-up version of your favorite childhood dessert. The Vanilla Wafer Cheesecake Crust perfectly complements the creamy banana filling.
Plus, the Pecan Streusel Topping adds a delightful crunch. The Homemade Cheesecake is based off of, and inspired by the flavors of Magnolia Bakery Inspired Dessert , This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from Sunday supper to birthday celebration.
It's the kind of dessert that makes everyone feel like they're home.
Getting Ready to Bake
Ready to dive in? You'll need cream cheese, bananas, vanilla wafers, pecans, and a few other pantry staples. We'll be making the crust, the streusel, the creamy cream cheese dessert , and the banana pudding layer separately.
The Easy Cheesecake Recipe ensures that even beginner bakers can achieve impressive results. Let's gather the ingredients and get baking!
Ingredients & Equipment for the Ultimate Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake
Okay, right then! Let's get this sorted. We're tackling a Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake today. It sounds complicated, but honestly, it's totally doable. Let's break down exactly what you'll need.
Main Ingredients Lowdown
- Vanilla Wafer Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) vanilla wafer crumbs
- 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
- Pecan Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 ( 8-ounce/227g each) packages cream cheese, softened - Get the good stuff, full fat is the way to go!
- 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon banana extract (optional)
- 3 large eggs
- Banana Pudding Layer:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced - The riper, the sweeter!
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners' sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Garnish: (optional)
- Extra vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, whipped cream.
Seasoning and Flavour Notes
This Crunchy Cheesecake Dessert uses a mix of vanilla and banana extracts. It really enhances the flavours! Vanilla wafers are a must for the authentic taste.
But graham crackers work in a pinch. Pecans add a nutty crunch, but walnuts are a good substitute. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of nutmeg will work a treat! These enhance the Southern Dessert Recipe vibe.
Equipment Rundown
You don't need fancy gadgets.
- 9 inch springform pan - Essential for easy removal.
- Electric mixer.
- Mixing bowls.
- Rubber spatula - Gets every last bit.
- Food processor - Optional for crushing wafers.
- Baking sheet.
A rolling pin and a Ziploc bag work fine instead of a food processor for crushing your Vanilla Wafer Cheesecake Crust .
Honestly, it’s fine. The whole point is to get that lovely flavour and crunchy texture. You’ve got this!
Right, once you have all the Banana Dessert Ideas ingredients and equipment ready, you are ready to transform into Homemade Cheesecake experience.
Cooking Method: Baking the Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake
Okay, right then! Let's get this sorted. We're talking about the baking stage for our delightful Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake .
This is where the magic happens. Honestly, getting this right is key to that perfect creamy texture and golden brown topping we're after.
It's where homemade cheesecake goes from a bunch of ingredients to an amazing creation!
Prep Steps for Baking Bliss
Essential mise en place is super important here. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350° F ( 175° C) .
No peeking early! Also, have your streusel chilled and ready. A preheated oven ensures even baking, crucial for that consistent texture.
I once forgot to preheat, and ended up with a slightly wonky, sad-looking cheesecake. Lesson learned, eh?
step-by-step Baking Process
- Place the assembled cheesecake (crust, bananas, filling, and streusel) into the preheated oven.
- Bake for 55- 65 minutes .
- Check for doneness. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door slightly.
- Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour . This prevents cracking.
Pro Tips for Perfection
Don't overbake the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Recipe ! Overbaking leads to a dry, cracked disaster. Visual cues for doneness are your friends.
That slight jiggle in the centre means it's ready. If you're feeling fancy, use a water bath! Wrap the bottom of your springform pan in foil, and place it in a larger pan with an inch of hot water.
This creates a steamy environment and prevents cracking, delivering that super creamy texture we all crave. For a truly next level Crunchy Cheesecake Dessert , toast the pecans lightly for the streusel before chopping it amplifies the nutty flavour.
Now that's magnifique!
Once cooled, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours , or preferably overnight. Trust me, it's worth the wait.
Overnight chilling allows the cheesecake to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve. You know?, This Southern Dessert Recipe is a real crowd pleaser.
Hope that makes sense!
Recipe Notes for the Best Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake Ever!
Okay, right then! Let's get this sorted. I've made this banana pudding crunch cheesecake more times than I can count, and honestly, each time is a slight adventure.
Here are a few nuggets of wisdom I've picked up along the way to help you nail this!
Serving Suggestions Let’s Make it Look Proper, Eh?
Fancy plating? Absolutely! Layer a slice on a plate. Add a dollop of whipped cream. A few extra vanilla wafers on the side never hurt anyone.
For drinks, think Southern: sweet tea. Or classy: a light, chilled Moscato. Presentation is key for this southern dessert recipe .
Storage Tips Keep That Magnolia Bakery Inspired Dessert Fresh!
Right, so the homemade cheesecake needs to live in the fridge. Covered, it'll keep for about 3-4 days. Freezing is a bit tricky with the banana pudding layer.
Honestly, I'd just make it fresh for the best texture. Leftovers? Unlikely! If you need to reheat, there is no needed.
It is better fresh from the fridge.
Variations Let's Get Creative with This Crunchy Cheesecake Dessert!
Fancy a twist? Sub some digestive biscuits for the vanilla wafers in the base. It gives it a slightly maltier flavour.
Looking for dietary adaptations? Try using a sugar substitute. Also, gluten-free biscuits can be used for the base for our gluten sensitive mates!.
These alternatives works really well in the easy cheesecake recipe .
Nutrition Basics Don't Feel Too Guilty!
Honestly, it's cheesecake. Let's not kid ourselves. It's a treat! Each slice is around 550-650 calories. It contains moderate protein and some fat.
Plus, it has carbs and sugar. Bananas do offer potassium, so... balance! You can cut sugar down, and the recipe will still give you the cream cheese dessert fix you wanted.
So there you have it. A pecan streusel topping and banana combo guaranteed to impress. This ain't your average cheesecake; it's got that Southern charm. Now go on, get baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
My banana pudding crunch cheesecake cracked! What did I do wrong, and how can I prevent it next time?
Cracking is a common cheesecake woe! It's usually caused by overbaking or a sudden temperature change. Next time, try baking it in a water bath for even heat distribution (see Tips & Tricks), and be sure to cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door ajar after baking.
Nobody wants a cracked cheesecake, so slow and steady wins the race!
Can I make the banana pudding crunch cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this dessert is even better when made ahead. The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills. I recommend making the entire cheesecake a day in advance, but hold off on the final whipped cream topping until just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.
Think of it as your little secret weapon for a stress free gathering!
How long does this banana pudding crunch cheesecake last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, your banana pudding crunch cheesecake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. After that, the bananas might start to brown and the texture might change slightly. It's highly unlikely it will last that long though, as it's rather delicious!
I'm not a fan of pecans. Can I substitute them in the streusel topping?
Of course! Feel free to swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds in the streusel topping. You could even use a mix of nuts if you're feeling fancy. Remember, baking is all about adapting to your own tastes, so put your own spin on it and have a go!
Can I freeze the banana pudding crunch cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it! For best results, freeze the cheesecake without the whipped cream topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before adding the freshly whipped cream and serving.
Freezing is a great way to extend the life of your delicious creation!
I don't have banana extract. Is it necessary for the banana pudding crunch cheesecake recipe?
No, it's not strictly necessary. The banana extract simply boosts the banana flavor, but the fresh bananas in the filling will provide plenty of taste on their own. If you don't have it, don't sweat it! Your cheesecake will still be absolutely scrumptious.
You could always add a tiny splash of rum extract as a cheeky alternative too - just a thought!
Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake A Slice Of Sout
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 40-50g |
| Fiber | Not specified |