Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars with Banana Blondie Crust

**Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars with Banana Blondie Crust**

*A Southern-Inspired Dessert Bar That Combines Classic Banana Pudding with Luxurious Cheesecake and a Fudgy Banana Blondie Base*

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### Introduction

If you’re a fan of banana pudding, cheesecake, or dessert bars, **Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars with Banana Blondie Crust** is the trifecta you didn’t know you needed. This dessert layers the rich, custard-like flavor of banana pudding with the creamy smoothness of cheesecake — all resting on a sweet, fudgy banana blondie crust. Each bite is a delightful balance of textures and flavors: chewy, creamy, nostalgic, and sophisticated.

Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you want to impress without too much fuss, these bars offer all the flavors of traditional banana pudding and cheesecake in an easy-to-serve format.

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### Ingredients

#### For the Banana Blondie Crust:

* ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

* 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

* 1 large egg

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* 1 medium ripe banana, mashed

* 1 cup all-purpose flour

* ½ teaspoon baking powder

* ¼ teaspoon salt

#### For the Cheesecake Layer:

* 16 oz cream cheese (2 blocks), softened

* ½ cup granulated sugar

* 2 large eggs

* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

* ¼ cup sour cream

* 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

#### For the Banana Pudding Topping:

* 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix

* 1½ cups cold milk (preferably whole milk)

* 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream

#### Optional Garnish:

* Crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies

* Fresh banana slices (add just before serving to avoid browning)

* A drizzle of caramel sauce

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Banana Blondie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.

3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Stir in the mashed banana until incorporated.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.

7. Spread the banana blondie batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

> *The banana blondie base adds a chewy, caramelized layer of sweetness with a subtle banana flavor, providing the perfect support for the cheesecake.*

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#### Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cheesecake silky.

4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the banana blondie crust and spread it evenly.

5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be lightly golden.

6. Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

> *This luscious cheesecake layer creates the perfect creamy middle that mimics the richness of banana pudding, without becoming too soft to slice.*

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#### Step 3: Prepare the Banana Pudding Topping

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes.

2. Fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream until smooth.

3. Spread the banana pudding mixture gently over the cooled cheesecake layer.

> *The topping gives that signature banana pudding flavor and fluffy texture that brings everything together.*

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#### Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Right before serving, sprinkle the top with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for crunch and that classic banana pudding vibe.

2. If desired, add freshly sliced bananas and a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor and visual appeal.

3. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

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### Storage Tips

* Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to **4 days**.

* For best texture, garnish with bananas just before serving to avoid browning.

* These bars **do not freeze well** due to the pudding and cheesecake components, which may separate upon thawing.

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### Final Thoughts

**Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars with Banana Blondie Crust** are an irresistible combination of texture and flavor. The chewy, rich base, smooth cheesecake center, and fluffy banana pudding topping turn a few humble ingredients into a truly decadent dessert. This layered treat pays homage to Southern banana pudding while elevating it with the elegance of a cheesecake — all wrapped up in a bar you can hold in your hand.

They’re ideal for entertaining, holidays, or just treating yourself to something special. Make a batch and watch them disappear!

Would you like a printable version or suggestions for gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives?