Description
This Banana Cream Pie Dessert is a delightful no-bake layered treat featuring a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, creamy cheesecake layer, smooth banana pudding, and a luscious whipped topping. Perfectly chilled and topped with fresh bananas, it’s an easy and crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 5 cups vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup Cool Whip (OR fresh sweetened whipped cream)
Banana Pudding Layer
- 2 boxes (3.4 ounces each) instant banana pudding mix
- 2 ½ cups milk (2% milk recommended)
- 1 cup Cool Whip (OR fresh sweetened whipped cream)
Whipped Topping
- 3 cups Cool Whip (OR fresh sweetened whipped cream)
- Freshly sliced bananas (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush the vanilla wafer cookies in a food processor or blender until they form fine crumbs. Mix these crumbs with the melted salted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of Cool Whip (or fresh sweetened whipped cream) together until smooth and fully combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return the dish to the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
- Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer: Whisk together the two boxes of instant banana pudding mix with 2 ½ cups of milk until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip (or fresh whipped cream) to add lightness. Spread this pudding mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Add the Whipped Topping: Spread 3 cups of Cool Whip (or fresh sweetened whipped cream) evenly over the banana pudding layer. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow all layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: After chilling, cut the dessert into 12 squares. Optionally, garnish each serving with freshly sliced bananas before serving for added freshness and presentation.
Notes
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freshly sliced bananas on top add a nice fresh element but are optional to prevent browning.
- You can substitute Cool Whip with freshly whipped sweetened cream for a more natural topping.
- Using softened cream cheese ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer.
- Ensure the pudding mix is fully thickened before folding in the Cool Whip to maintain the right consistency.
