Banana cream pie lovers, this one’s for you. This Best Banana Cream Cheesecake recipe is the ultimate mashup of two beloved desserts. A rich, creamy banana-infused cheesecake sits on a buttery vanilla wafer crust, layered with fresh bananas and topped with fluffy whipped cream. Each bite is pure nostalgia with a grown-up twist.

Perfect for spring brunches, summer gatherings, or just a Saturday night treat, this cheesecake brings bakery-level elegance to your home kitchen. The balance of ripe banana flavor, velvety cream cheese, and a touch of vanilla makes this a showstopper that’s as impressive as it is irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Best Banana Cream Cheesecake

It’s the best of both worlds. If you’ve ever struggled choosing between banana cream pie and cheesecake, this dessert makes that decision easy. The texture is heavenly: smooth, dense, and creamy without being overly rich. It layers flavors in a way that keeps every forkful interesting.

This cheesecake also happens to be a make-ahead dream. It tastes even better the next day, and the presentation alone makes it perfect for celebrations or potlucks. Whether you’re a banana dessert fan or just want something new for your cheesecake rotation, this one’s a keeper.

What Kind of Crust Should I Use?

For this recipe, a vanilla wafer crust gives the perfect sweet crunch to balance the creamy filling. Graham crackers can work too, but vanilla wafers lend a more dessert-forward flavor that enhances the banana notes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try blending in some crushed pretzels for a salty edge or golden Oreos for extra decadence.

Ingredients for the Best Banana Cream Cheesecake

The ingredients for this cheesecake bring creamy comfort and bright banana flavor into every bite. Each component plays a role in making the dessert as smooth, flavorful, and structurally sound as possible.

Vanilla wafer crumbs: These form the buttery, slightly sweet crust that supports all that creamy filling.
Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed with the crumbs, it holds the crust together and adds richness.
Cream cheese: The heart of any cheesecake. Use full-fat blocks for the best texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and balances the tang of the cream cheese.
Ripe bananas: Mashed bananas bring natural sweetness and that signature banana flavor.
Eggs: They provide structure and creaminess to the filling.
Sour cream: Adds a smooth tang and helps balance the richness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and deepens the banana taste.
Heavy cream: Whipped for topping, adding a cloud-like finish.
Powdered sugar: Lightly sweetens the whipped topping.
Fresh banana slices: Optional, but they give a beautiful garnish and hint at what’s inside.

How To Make the Best Banana Cream Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Mix vanilla wafer crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add mashed bananas, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined, scraping the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake at 325°F for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Once cool, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the texture to fully develop and flavors to meld.

Step 5: Whip and Garnish

Just before serving, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with banana slices if desired.

How to Serve and Store Best Banana Cream Cheesecake

This cheesecake serves 10 to 12 people, depending on how generous you slice it. It’s a dessert that makes a statement, so even small slices go a long way. Serve it chilled, with a dollop of whipped cream and maybe a drizzle of caramel for an extra-special touch.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly covered. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days. If you’re making it ahead for a party, assemble the cheesecake and chill, then add whipped topping and bananas just before serving to keep it fresh.

What to Serve With Best Banana Cream Cheesecake?

Coffee or Espresso

The creamy richness of the cheesecake is complemented beautifully by the bold flavors of coffee.

Salted Caramel Sauce

A light drizzle of salted caramel adds a warm, sweet depth that plays perfectly with banana.

Fresh Berries

Raspberries or strawberries provide a tart contrast and burst of color on the plate.

Chocolate Shavings

Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on top for an elegant finish and a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop on the side turns your cheesecake slice into a truly indulgent dessert duo.

Toasted Coconut Flakes

Add some crunch and tropical flair that works beautifully with banana.

A Glass of Moscato

A sweet, chilled glass of Moscato or another dessert wine makes for a lovely pairing.

Warm Banana Bread

If you’re really leaning into the banana theme, serve a small slice alongside for a fun double-banana treat.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If you love this Best Banana Cream Cheesecake, you’ll definitely want to check out these other crave-worthy creations:

Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a handheld twist on creamy indulgence.
Ooey Gooey Bars for that sticky-sweet bite of childhood.
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes when you want cheesecake with a breakfasty edge.
Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a fruit-forward comfort classic.
Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For if you’re feeling citrusy and light.

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 add caramel? Maybe a chocolate drizzle? Did you layer more bananas inside?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and dessert inspiration on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!