Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

Kitchen Equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Plastic wrap

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. Combine Crust Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press into the Pan: Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Incorporate Other Ingredients: Mix in the sour cream, mashed banana, vanilla extract, and banana extract (if using) until well combined and smooth.
4. Pour Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly with a rubber spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

1. Bake: Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. The center will firm up as it cools.
2. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Topping

1. Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread on Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has fully set, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cheesecake bars.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and Garnish: Using the parchment overhang, lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Slice into bars and garnish with sliced bananas and crushed Nilla wafers if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy these delicious Creamy Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars!

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Tips and Tricks:

1. Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor. The more speckled the banana, the sweeter it will be!
2. Make It Ahead: These cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
3. Prevent Browning: To prevent the banana slices from browning, you can lightly coat them in lemon juice before garnishing.
4. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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