Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes Recipe

Dreamy Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes Recipe for Sweet Treats

Sweet mini banana pudding cheesecakes bring nostalgia racing through my kitchen memories.

Childhood desserts always spark incredible connections with comfort and joy.

Creamy textures merge perfectly when classic Southern treats collide with elegant cheesecake techniques.

Bananas whisper delicate hints of tropical warmth throughout each decadent bite.

Delightful individual portions make sharing simple and elegant for any gathering.

Smooth cream cheese blends seamlessly with ripe banana nuances, creating magic in miniature form.

You’ll want to savor every single delectable spoonful of these irresistible little treasures.

Pair These Mini Cheesecakes with Southern Sips

  • Blend smooth banana liqueur with light cream and vanilla vodka for a decadent drink that mirrors the creamy cheesecake texture and banana notes.
  • Craft a warm caramel macchiato with extra vanilla syrup to enhance the sweet banana and buttery Nilla wafer crust undertones.
  • Select a lightly sparkling Moscato d'Asti with delicate sweetness and fruity banana-like hints that beautifully complement the dessert's creamy profile.
  • Whip up a non-alcoholic banana cream smoothie blending fresh bananas, vanilla yogurt, and a touch of honey to match the cheesecake's rich, smooth characteristics.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Variations You’ll Adore

Gluten-Free Banana Pudding Cheesecakes: Replace Nilla wafers with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this dessert.

Vegan Banana Cheesecake Cups: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs or silken tofu to create a plant-based version.

Low-Sugar Banana Pudding Cheesecakes: Substitute regular sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the creamy banana flavor profile.

Tropical Banana Cheesecake Variation: Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top, or mix in a small amount of rum extract to give the cheesecakes a Caribbean-inspired twist.

Mini Banana Cheesecake FAQs

  • Are Nilla wafers essential for this recipe?

Yes, Nilla wafers create the classic banana pudding flavor and provide a crunchy base for the cheesecake. If unavailable, graham crackers can work as a substitute.

  • Can I use frozen bananas for the filling?

Fresh ripe bananas are best for optimal flavor and texture. Frozen bananas might release too much moisture and affect the cheesecake’s consistency.

  • How ripe should the bananas be?

Use very ripe, almost overripe bananas with dark spots. These provide the sweetest, most intense banana flavor for the cheesecake filling.

  • What if my cheesecake cracks during baking?

Cracks can happen due to overmixing or sudden temperature changes. To prevent this, mix gently, avoid overmixing, and bake in a consistent oven temperature.

Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes That Impress Every Time

  • Individual-sized treats allow for guilt-free indulgence, making them ideal for parties, gatherings, or personal dessert cravings without overindulging.
  • Blend the classic comfort of banana pudding with creamy cheesecake, creating a nostalgic and irresistible dessert that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Prepare these mini cheesecakes in advance and store in the refrigerator, saving time and reducing stress for busy home cooks who want a delicious dessert without last-minute scrambling.

Gather These Ingredients for Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes

Crust Ingredients:
  • Nilla Wafers: Classic cookie base that provides a sweet, crumbly foundation for the cheesecake. Look for fresh, crisp cookies.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust and adds rich flavor. Melted butter ensures even mixing.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Creamy base that gives cheesecake its signature texture. Choose full-fat, room temperature cream cheese for smoothest results.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and balances the tangy cream cheese. Standard white sugar works best.
  • Large Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the filling. Room temperature eggs blend more easily.
  • Ripe Bananas: Adds natural sweetness and banana flavor. Choose very ripe, soft bananas for maximum flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake and prevent cracking. Use standard, unbleached flour.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet notes. Pure vanilla extract recommended.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates light, fluffy whipped topping. Choose high-fat content cream for best whipping.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps stabilize whipped cream. Provides smooth texture.
  • Banana Slices, Mini Nilla Wafers: Decorative garnishes that add extra flavor and visual appeal. Fresh banana slices work best.

How to Make Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes Flawlessly

Step 1: Create Buttery Wafer Base

Crush Nilla wafers into fine crumbs. Mix crumbs with melted butter until texture resembles damp sand. Line muffin tin with paper liners. Press wafer mixture firmly into each liner’s bottom. Bake briefly at 325°F to set the base.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Cheesecake Mixture

In large mixing bowl, blend:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Granulated sugar
Beat until silky smooth. Add eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Fold in:
  • Mashed ripe bananas
  • Vanilla extract
  • Flour

Mix gently to maintain creamy consistency.

Step 3: Bake Delicate Cheesecake Cups

Pour cheesecake batter into prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake until centers slightly wobble when gently shaken. Remove from oven and allow natural cooling.

Step 4: Craft Fluffy Cloud Topping

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until peaks stand tall and proud. Transfer to piping bag with decorative tip.

Step 5: Decorate Dreamy Desserts

Gently remove cheesecakes from liners. Pipe luxurious cream swirls on top. Garnish with:
  • Fresh banana slice
  • Tiny Nilla wafer

Step 6: Chill and Savor

Refrigerate until serving. Enjoy within two days for maximum deliciousness.

Tips for Smooth Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes

  • Boost Banana Flavor: Overripe bananas work best for intense, natural sweetness and deeper banana taste in your mini cheesecakes.
  • Prevent Cracking Technique: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and bake in a water bath to create smooth, crack-free surfaces on your mini desserts.
  • Wafer Crust Pro Tip: Press Nilla wafer crust firmly and evenly to ensure a stable, crunchy base that holds together perfectly when serving.
  • Whipped Cream Stability Hack: Chill your mixing bowl and whisk before whipping cream to help achieve stiffer, more stable peaks that maintain shape longer.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: These mini cheesecakes can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, making them ideal for stress-free entertaining and party planning.

Store and Serve Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes the Smart Way

  • Store mini banana pudding cheesecakes in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always keep them chilled to maintain texture and freshness.
  • Cover each cheesecake with plastic wrap before placing in the container to prevent moisture loss and preserve their delicate structure.
  • Allow refrigerated cheesecakes to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor. Avoid microwaving, which can compromise the creamy texture.
  • Freeze unfrosted cheesecakes wrapped tightly in plastic and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before topping with whipped cream and garnishes.
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Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes Recipe

Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes Recipe


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4.8 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet mini banana pudding cheesecakes blend Southern comfort with creamy decadence, offering a delightful twist on classic desserts. Silky banana-infused cheesecake nestled in tender vanilla wafer crusts will enchant guests with irresistible charm.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 340 g (12 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 150 g (1 ½ cups) Nilla wafers, crushed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ripe banana, mashed

Dairy and Baking Ingredients:

  • 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
  • 60 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 120 ml (½ cup) heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Flavoring and Garnish Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Banana slices
  • Mini Nilla wafers

Instructions

  1. Craft a buttery foundation by pulverizing Nilla wafers into fine crumbs, blending thoroughly with melted butter until the texture mimics damp, compact sand.
  2. Gently press this crumbly mixture into cupcake liners within a muffin tin, creating a uniform base that will provide a delightful crunch beneath the creamy filling.
  3. Briefly toast the crust in a preheated oven to solidify its structure and enhance its golden-brown character.
  4. Whip cream cheese and sugar together until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency that promises a velvety cheesecake experience.
  5. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring each is thoroughly integrated before adding the next, which helps maintain a smooth batter without overworking the mixture.
  6. Fold in mashed ripe bananas, vanilla extract, and flour, creating a fragrant and luxurious filling that captures the essence of banana pudding.
  7. Distribute the batter evenly across prepared crusts, filling each cup approximately three-quarters full to allow room for gentle rising during baking.
  8. Bake until the centers display a subtle tremor when gently nudged, indicating a perfectly creamy interior.
  9. Allow cheesecakes to cool completely, then refrigerate to set and intensify flavors, creating a refreshing dessert with remarkable texture.
  10. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until forming elegant, sturdy peaks that will crown each miniature cheesecake.
  11. Delicately pipe or spoon the billowy cream atop chilled cheesecakes, creating an artistic flourish.
  12. Garnish with fresh banana slices and a classic Nilla wafer, offering a nostalgic nod to traditional banana pudding.
  13. Serve chilled, savoring these individual delights within two days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • Softly press the Nilla wafer crust to prevent a dense, hard base that might become difficult to bite.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling without overmixing.
  • Prevent banana browning by coating fresh banana slices with a tiny splash of lemon juice before garnishing.
  • Swap traditional ingredients for dietary needs: use gluten-free Nilla wafers, dairy-free cream cheese, or monk fruit sweetener for lower-sugar versions.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Jamie Granger

Jamie Granger

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

  • Fusion Cuisine Development
  • Recipe Development and Food Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Content Creation
  • Nutrition and Healthy Cooking​

Education

Culinary Institute of America

  • Degree: Associate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasis on flavor development, classic and contemporary culinary techniques, menu design, and global cuisine preparation; combined with food-service management, communication, and finance training; and immersive hands‑on restaurant operations through paid industry internships.

Jamie Granger turns ingredients into memories. With her recipes, she brings a fusion-forward flair to every creation. 

Her dishes reflect the places she’s explored, the chefs she’s learned from, and the deep connection she has to food as a form of expression. 

At Pass and Provision, Jamie develops recipes that balance flavor, health, and beauty, meals that don’t just satisfy your appetite but speak to your curiosity.

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