Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cups – A No-Bake Southern Classic with a Twist
If you love the sweet, comforting flavor of banana pudding and the richness of cheesecake, this dessert is for you.
These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cups combine creamy layers of banana-flavored cheesecake, vanilla wafers, and whipped topping in a no-bake treat that’s easy to serve and sure to impress.
Perfect for parties, holidays, or just an indulgent weeknight dessert!
Prep Time, Chill Time & More
| Prep Time | Chill Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 2 hours | 2 hours 15 minutes | Dessert | American | 4 |
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | 1 Serving | 2 Servings | 4 Servings | Alternatives / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vanilla wafers (crushed) | 2 tbsp | 4 tbsp | ½ cup | Graham crackers or shortbread |
| Butter (melted) | ½ tbsp | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Unsalted preferred |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 2 oz | 4 oz | 8 oz | Dairy-free if needed |
| Banana pudding mix (instant) | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | ¼ cup | Vanilla or butterscotch mix optional |
| Milk (cold) | 2 tbsp | ¼ cup | ½ cup | Dairy-free if needed |
| Whipped topping | 2 tbsp | 4 tbsp | ½ cup | Homemade or coconut whipped cream |
| Banana (sliced) | ¼ banana | ½ banana | 1 banana | Use just-ripe bananas |
Tools & Equipment
| Tool | Use | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | For crust and filling | Any clean container |
| Whisk or hand mixer | To blend cream cheese and pudding | Fork or spoon |
| Dessert cups | For assembling layers | Jars, glasses, or small bowls |
| Measuring tools | Accurate portions | Kitchen scale |
| Spatula | For spreading filling neatly | Back of a spoon |
How to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cups
This no-bake dessert is all about simple layers and creamy textures.
Here’s how to put together these rich and dreamy cheesecake cups that taste just like banana pudding in a whole new way.
Step 1: Make the Cookie Base
Crush vanilla wafers and combine with melted butter. Spoon into cups and press down firmly to form the bottom layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Pudding Layer
In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese with the banana pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thick. You can add 1–2 tablespoons of whipped topping for extra creaminess.
Step 3: Layer the Dessert
On top of the crust, add a layer of sliced bananas. Then spoon or pipe the banana cheesecake mixture over it and smooth the top.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Top with a swirl of whipped cream and a few crushed or whole vanilla wafers for crunch. Add a banana slice on top for garnish.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate for 2 hours (or more) to set. This helps the flavors blend beautifully and gives the dessert a firm yet creamy bite.
Serving & Decoration Tips
- Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers, banana slices, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Serve chilled in mini glass cups or mason jars for a pretty presentation.
- Add a mint leaf for color contrast.
Variations to Try
- Peanut Butter Banana Pudding Cups – Add a swirl of peanut butter into the cheesecake layer for a nutty twist.
- Nutella Banana Cups – Mix 1 tbsp of Nutella into the cream cheese mixture and top with hazelnut crumbs.
- Strawberry Banana Cups – Add a layer of chopped strawberries between the banana and pudding layers.
- Chocolate Banana Cheesecake Cups – Use chocolate pudding instead of banana pudding and layer with banana slices.
- Caramel Banana Cups – Drizzle caramel sauce over each cup and sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty treat.
- Frozen Banana Bites – Freeze the layered cups and serve as a frozen dessert during summer.
These versions allow you to customize the dessert based on what you have at home or the mood you’re in!
Storing Tips
- Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing after assembling with bananas—they become mushy.
- Make the layers in advance and add bananas just before serving if storing longer.
Extra Tips
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy texture.
- Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for smoother blending.
- Add lemon juice to banana slices if prepping ahead—this prevents browning.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
| Mistake | Problem Caused | Quick Fix or Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Using hot melted butter | Crust becomes soggy | Cool butter slightly before mixing |
| Not chilling the cups | Soft texture and messy layers | Always chill at least 2 hours |
| Overmixing pudding and cream cheese | Too runny or broken filling | Mix just until combined and creamy |
| Overripe bananas | Too mushy and watery | Use yellow, slightly firm bananas |
Final Bite
These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cups are everything you love in a banana dessert—comforting, creamy, and layered with love.
Great for gatherings or cozy weekends, they’re a guaranteed hit with banana fans.
