Imagine everything you love about banana pudding — the creamy custard, sweet bananas, and layers of vanilla — now picture it all wrapped up in a luscious cheesecake with a crunchy golden topping. That’s exactly what this Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake delivers. It’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone stop mid-bite, close their eyes, and go, “Mmm.”

This recipe is a dreamy mashup of two classic favorites: banana pudding and rich, New York-style cheesecake. With its velvety banana-flavored filling, buttery vanilla wafer crust, and a generous crunchy topping of caramelized cereal and nuts, it’s a showstopper for potlucks, holiday tables, or anytime you just need a slice of comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake

It combines nostalgic banana pudding flavor with the indulgence of a creamy cheesecake, making every bite a perfect balance of smooth, crunchy, sweet, and fruity. The crunch topping adds a unique texture that keeps you coming back for just one more forkful. It’s also a make-ahead dessert, so you can prep it the day before and have it ready to impress guests with zero last-minute stress.

What Kind of Crust Should I Use for Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake?

The classic choice here is crushed vanilla wafers — they echo the banana pudding vibe perfectly and offer just the right sweetness and snap. You can mix in a few graham crackers or golden Oreos if you’re feeling bold, but the vanilla wafer base really lets the banana flavor shine without competition. Just make sure your crust is compact and golden before adding the filling to prevent any soggy surprises.

Ingredients for the Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake

To bring this dessert to life, you’ll need a blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy ingredients. Each one plays a key role in layering flavor and texture — and nothing should be skipped if you want the full experience.

Vanilla wafers – Used for the crust, they add a nostalgic flavor and perfect crunch.
Unsalted butter – Helps bind the crust and adds rich flavor.
Cream cheese – The base of your cheesecake; it must be full-fat for ultimate creaminess.
Granulated sugar – Balances the tang of cream cheese and sweetens the filling.
Sour cream – Adds a slight tang and extra smoothness to the cheesecake.
Banana pudding mix – Gives that authentic banana pudding flavor without overpowering.
Eggs – Essential for setting the cheesecake while keeping it rich.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of both crust and filling.
Whipped topping or whipped cream – For layering and garnish.
Sliced bananas – Add freshness and reinforce the banana flavor.
Cornflakes cereal – Forms the base of the crunch topping.
Brown sugar – Caramelizes with the cereal for a buttery crunch.
Chopped pecans – Adds a nutty twist to the crunch layer.

How To Make the Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs and mix them with melted butter until the texture feels like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, and banana pudding mix. Blend until fully combined, then mix in the eggs one at a time. Finish with a splash of vanilla extract.

Step 3: Bake and Chill

Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the center is just slightly jiggly. Let it cool at room temperature before transferring to the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better).

Step 4: Prepare the Crunch Topping

Melt some butter in a skillet and stir in cornflakes, brown sugar, and pecans. Cook until golden and crunchy, then let it cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once your cheesecake is chilled, layer it with sliced bananas and a generous amount of whipped topping. Sprinkle the crunch topping all over and slice to serve.

How to Serve and Store Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake

This cheesecake feeds about 10–12 generous slices, making it perfect for gatherings or just a week’s worth of indulgent dessert. Serve cold straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

To store, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you’ve already added the crunch topping, know it may soften slightly over time. For the crispiest experience, store the topping separately and sprinkle it on just before serving.

What to Serve With Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake?

Coffee or Cold Brew

A rich cup of coffee or an icy glass of cold brew balances the sweetness perfectly and adds a warm contrast.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle over each slice for an indulgent finish that plays beautifully with the banana flavor.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries give a nice tart bite to each forkful.

Iced Vanilla Chai

A creamy vanilla chai over ice is the cozy companion you didn’t know you needed.

Southern Fried Chicken

Yes, really! Make it part of a full Southern-style meal for brunch or a gathering.

Butter Pecan Ice Cream

If you want to double down on decadence, this pairing takes things over the top.

Lemonade

For summer parties, nothing complements creamy cheesecake like a refreshing tart drink.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If this Banana Pudding Crunch Cheesecake stole your heart, you’ll want to try these other unique creations from Mia Plates:

Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a breakfast-meets-dessert treat.
Ooey Gooey Bars if you love messy, melty goodness.
Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for bite-sized elegance with a creamy surprise.
Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a fruity Southern favorite.
Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons if coconut’s your thing.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you keep the bananas fresh or caramelize them? Did you go heavy on the crunch or keep it light?

I love seeing all the creative spins people put on these recipes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions too — let’s help each other bake it better.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more sweet delights on Mia Recipes on Pinterest. You’ll find something for every craving!