If you have a soft spot for the dreamy combination of bananas and creamy cheesecake, then you are in for a real treat with this Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars perfectly capture the luscious smoothness of classic cheesecake while bursting with sweet banana flavor and a buttery graham cracker crust. Each bite melts in your mouth, balancing the fresh fruit, rich cream cheese, and a fluffy whipped topping with a delightful crunch from vanilla wafers. Whether you’re making a special dessert for friends or just craving something indulgent, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this irresistible dessert that shines because of each component’s unique contribution. From the crisp and golden crust to the creamy, smooth filling and the light, airy topping brimming with banana goodness, every element perfectly complements the others for a harmonious taste experience.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides the crunchy, buttery base that holds everything together.
- Granulated sugar (for crust and filling): Sweetens both the crust and the rich banana cheesecake filling to perfection.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust crumbs and adds a rich, golden flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star ingredient that makes the filling luxuriously creamy and tangy.
- Eggs: Help set the cheesecake filling, giving it that perfect smooth, sliceable texture.
- Ripe bananas (mashed): Bring natural sweetness and a fresh, fruity flair to the filling.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- Heavy cream: Enriches the filling with a velvety mouthfeel.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a gentle thickener to help the filling hold its shape while baking.
- Whipped topping: A light, fluffy layer that crowns the bars with a delicate texture contrast.
- Sliced bananas: Fresh slices for garnish that reinforce that irresistible banana appeal.
- Crushed vanilla wafers: Sprinkle on top for an extra crunch that makes every bite exciting.
How to Make Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Combine the graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until everything is evenly moistened — this mixture will transform into a crisp, delicious base. Press it firmly into the bottom of a lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake it briefly until it sets, creating the perfect foundation for your cheesecake bars. Once done, let it cool slightly to ensure the crust stays intact when you add the filling.
Step 2: Make the banana cheesecake filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy — this is where the magic begins. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to create a silky texture. Blend in the mashed ripe bananas, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and cornstarch until the mixture is perfectly combined. This luscious filling is packed with banana flavor and has just the right consistency to bake into a smooth, dreamy cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Bake the cheesecake
Pour the creamy banana filling over your prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven until the center is just set and no longer jiggly — about 40 to 45 minutes. This careful timing ensures your bars remain moist and creamy while holding their shape beautifully. Once out of the oven, allow the bars to cool completely before moving on.
Step 4: Chill and garnish
Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake bars for several hours, or ideally overnight. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and firms up the texture, making slicing easier and the bars more refreshing. Just before serving, spread a generous layer of whipped topping on the bars and sprinkle with sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for that signature tasty crunch and inviting appearance.
How to Serve Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For a show-stopping presentation, fresh sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers are unbeatable. The bananas amplify the fruitiness while the wafers add delightful texture and a hint of vanilla sweetness. You can also dust the bars lightly with cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch that complements the bananas beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cheesecake bars make a fantastic dessert paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added layer of indulgence. For a lighter accompaniment, a fresh berry salad or a handful of toasted nuts on the side balances richness with a bit of brightness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these bars in clear dessert cups with alternating layers of whipped cream and banana slices for a stunning parfait effect. Or serve individual bars on colorful plates garnished with edible flowers, mint sprigs, or even a drizzle of chocolate or berry coulis to elevate the look. Whether for a casual get-together or a fancy occasion, a little creativity makes this classic dessert truly shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars are best kept in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This helps maintain their creamy texture and prevents them from drying out. Properly stored, they stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, perfect for enjoying over several indulgent snacking sessions.
Freezing
If you want to savor these bars later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top freezer bag. When frozen, they keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw bars overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the creamy filling. Instead, allow frozen bars to thaw completely in the refrigerator before enjoying them at their optimal creaminess.
FAQs
Can I substitute bananas with another fruit in this Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
While bananas provide a unique creamy texture and sweetness, you could experiment with mashed mango or cooked apples for different flavors, but the banana taste is truly signature to this particular recipe.
What is the best way to get clean slices when cutting cheesecake bars?
Use a sharp knife and wipe the blade clean with a warm damp cloth between each cut. This helps prevent the filling from sticking to the knife and keeps your slices smooth and neat.
Do I have to use whipped topping, or can I make my own?
You can absolutely make fresh whipped cream from heavy cream and a bit of sugar. It adds an even fresher flavor and creamier texture, enhancing the homemade feel of your bars.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This traditional Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe relies on cream cheese, butter, and heavy cream, but you could try vegan cream cheese and dairy-free butter alternatives. The texture may vary slightly, so be prepared for some experimentation.
How ripe should the bananas be?
For maximum flavor and natural sweetness, use bananas that are very ripe, ideally with brown spots on the peel. These bananas mash easily and impart the best taste to the cheesecake filling.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to desserts for any occasion. The way the flavors meld together with that perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy is nothing short of delightful. Trust me, sharing these bars with friends and family will leave everyone asking for your secret, and the best part is how simple and rewarding they are to make. So grab some ripe bananas and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars combine a rich, creamy banana-infused cheesecake layer over a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream, fresh banana slices, and crunchy vanilla wafer crumbs for the perfect indulgent dessert. Ideal for banana lovers seeking a smooth and luscious treat with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Topping
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 1/4 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper to create an even crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes to set, then remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and cornstarch, mixing gently until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Pour the banana cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake is just set and no longer jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow them to fully firm up and enhance the flavors.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars. Garnish the top with slices of fresh banana and a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for added texture and flavor. For clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and flavor depth.
- Clean your knife between slices to achieve neat and clean bars.
- These bars are best served chilled, making them ideal for warm weather or make-ahead dessert options.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
