Contents
Introduction
Indulge in these Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares, a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet flavor of bananas. This easy-to-make treat features a crunchy graham cracker crust and is perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
16 oz. cream cheese, brought to room temperature
14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mashed bananas
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours
Yield: 9 bars
These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are sure to impress with their creamy, dreamy texture and delightful banana flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1 Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat the oven to 300F (150C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal later.
2 Make the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
3 Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat 16 oz. cream cheese until smooth. Add 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Stir in 1 cup mashed bananas, leaving some lumps for texture.
4 Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the filling over the chilled crust and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the filling is firm and lightly golden on top.
5 Cool and Chill:
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set.
6 Serve:
After chilling, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!
Notes
Note 1:
Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Note 2:
For best results, allow the cheesecake to chill overnight before serving.
Note 3:
Feel free to adjust the amount of mashed bananas to your preference for a stronger banana flavor.
Note 4:
These squares can be topped with whipped cream or additional banana slices for garnish if desired.
Cook Techniques
Prepping the Baking Dish
Line your baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake squares after baking.
Mixing Ingredients
Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to achieve a smooth and creamy filling. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl for an even mix.
Pressing the Crust
Ensure the graham cracker crust is pressed evenly into the bottom of the pan. This provides a stable base for the cheesecake.
Layering Flavors
Incorporate mashed bananas into the cream cheese mixture carefully, leaving some lumps for added texture and flavor.
Baking Technique
Bake the cheesecake at a low temperature to prevent cracking and ensure an even bake. Look for a firm texture and a lightly golden top to indicate doneness.
Cooling Properly
Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating. This helps prevent condensation and maintains the texture.
Chilling Time
Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least 4 hours. This step is crucial for the filling to set properly.
FAQ
Can I use regular graham crackers instead of gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular graham crackers if you don’t require a gluten-free option.
How can I tell when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake should be firm and lightly golden on top. A slight jiggle in the center is acceptable but it should not be liquid.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! These squares can be made a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator until serving.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares are a delicious fusion of creamy cheesecake and delightful banana flavor. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and an easy preparation method, they are perfect for any gathering or a treat at home. The cozy flavors of this dessert are sure to impress and bring smiles to your table.
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