Oh boy, are you in for a treat! Nothing brings back fond family moments like the creamy, sweet memory of banana pudding. Mix that nostalgia with the rich flavor of cookie butter and cheesecake, and you’ve got yourself a heavenly dessert that will make everyone swoon—Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake!
This recipe is one that my family has enjoyed during potlucks and summer barbecues. I first stumbled upon it when I was trying to impress my friends at a dinner party. Spoiler alert: I did! The layers of fluffy cheesecake, sweet banana, and cookie butter create a symphony of flavors that dance together beautifully. Every bite feels like a warm hug from your grandma, and trust me when I say you’ll want to go back for seconds (or thirds).
### What’s in Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake?
Let’s break down the incredibly delicious ingredients that will make this cake an irresistible delight:
Bananas: Naturally sweet and creamy, bananas are the star of this dessert. They not only add rich flavor but also moisture to the cake. Be sure to use ripe bananas, as they bring out the sweetest flavors.
Cookie Butter: Oh yes, we’re adding this magical spread made from crushed cookies and spices! It brings a warm, spiced sweetness that complements the bananas beautifully. Trust me, you’ll want to keep some extra on hand for dipping or spreading.
Cream Cheese: The creamy base of our cheesecake layer! Softened cream cheese is essential for a silky smooth texture. I usually go for full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor, but reduced fat can work in a pinch.
Sugar: A necessary sweet kick for balancing out all the flavors. I’ve found that granulated sugar works best here.
Eggs: They give structure to the cheesecake while adding moisture. Always use large eggs for consistency.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor profile to the next level. It’s like a magic potion for desserts!
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These will form the base of our cheesecake and add a crunchy texture. You can pick up some pre-made crumbs or crush graham crackers yourself—either works.
Whipped Cream: For topping! Who doesn’t love a dollop of sweet, fluffy whipped cream? It adds a lightness to each slice and a visually delightful touch.
### Is Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Good for You?
I mean, it’s not exactly a salad, but let’s talk about this wonderful medley:
Bananas: These nutritional powerhouses are rich in potassium and vitamin C, making them a great choice to fuel your day or your sweet tooth!
Cream Cheese: While it’s indulgent, cream cheese does contain calcium and can be part of a balanced diet if enjoyed in moderation. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use reduced-fat options to cut back on some calories.
Cookie Butter: It’s pretty much dessert in a jar! It’s a sweet treat that brings flavor but should be enjoyed in moderation to keep the indulgence reasonable.
You should always check for allergies, especially if you’re serving this to guests. And, while this cake is a dessert made with love, moderation is key!
### Ingredients List
– 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
– 1 cup cookie butter
– 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
*Serves: About 10-12 slices*
### How to Make Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake?
1. **Preheat your oven** to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect temperature to bake your cheesecake base to perfection.
2. **Prepare the crust**: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with a few tablespoons of melted butter to achieve a sandy texture. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased springform pan.
3. **Combine cheesecake ingredients**: In a mixer, beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and cookie butter until smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. **Add the bananas**: Gently fold in the mashed bananas, being careful not to overmix.
5. **Pour into crust**: Spread the cheesecake batter evenly over the crust in your springform pan.
6. **Bake**: Place in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up more as it cools.
7. **Cool down**: Allow the cake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours (or overnight, if you can wait!).
8. **Top with whipped cream**: Once set, top generously with whipped cream before serving.
### Dessert Delight
If you’re looking to elevate your cake even further, consider drizzling some additional cookie butter on top or sprinkling crushed cookies as a garnish. You could even layer in a few extra banana slices atop the whipped cream for that extra flair.
I’m beyond excited for you to try this Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake. Each slice is like a burst of sunshine on your taste buds! Once you’ve tried it, I’d love for you to share your experience—I promise, your friends and family will be singing your praises (and begging for you to make it again!). Happy baking!
