No Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cups (Print version)
Individual cups featuring creamy cheesecake and banana pudding layers with fresh bananas and crunchy vanilla wafer topping.
# What you'll need:
→ Crust
01 - 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies, crushed
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cheesecake Filling
03 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
06 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
→ Banana Pudding Layer
07 - 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
08 - 1 1/4 cups cold whole milk
09 - 2 ripe bananas, sliced
→ Topping
10 - Additional vanilla wafer crumbs
11 - Fresh banana slices
12 - Whipped cream (optional)
# How to make it:
01 - Combine crushed vanilla wafers and melted butter in a small bowl, mixing until evenly moistened. Distribute approximately 2 tablespoons into the bottom of each serving cup and press lightly to form a compact crust layer.
02 - Beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl with a hand mixer until completely smooth and creamy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
03 - In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and no streaks remain.
04 - Whisk together instant banana pudding mix and cold milk in a clean bowl for 2 minutes until mixture begins to thicken considerably.
05 - Distribute half of the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust in each cup, using a spoon or small spatula to smooth the surface.
06 - Arrange a layer of fresh sliced bananas over the cheesecake filling in each cup, ensuring even distribution.
07 - Spoon prepared banana pudding over the banana slices, dividing the mixture equally among all cups.
08 - Top with remaining cheesecake mixture, smoothing tops to create an even surface.
09 - Sprinkle each cup generously with additional vanilla wafer crumbs, arrange fresh banana slices on top, and add a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
10 - Cover cups with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and layers to set properly before serving.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- They come together faster than you can debate what movie to watch afterward
- The individual portions mean everyone gets their own perfect little serving with no fighting over the last piece
02 -
- The cream cheese absolutely must be softened to room temperature or you'll end up with tiny lumps that ruin the silky texture
- Tossing your banana slices in a little lemon juice prevents browning without affecting the taste in a noticeable way
03 -
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for ten minutes before whipping the cream for faster and more stable results
- A dash of cinnamon in the crust mixture adds warmth and depth that makes these taste even more like homemade banana pudding