If you love Southern banana pudding and rich, creamy cheesecake, you’re about to fall head over heels for this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe! Picture this: dreamy layers of tender yellow cake, silky cheesecake, and lush banana pudding, all topped with clouds of whipped cream and those classic vanilla wafer crumbles. It’s a celebration in every bite, perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any day you want to treat yourself. This showstopper always disappears fast and turns gatherings into sweet occasions.

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of familiar, easy-to-find ingredients can come together to make such a spectacular dessert. Each one plays an important role—some for fluffy cake layers, others for tangy cheesecake or cool and creamy pudding. When you see how they stack up (literally!), you’ll appreciate every ingredient in this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe.

Yellow Cake Mix: The classic shortcut for a soft, golden cake base that tastes homemade.
Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth to both the cake and cheesecake, making everything taste extra special.
Cream Cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer—rich, tangy, and absolutely essential for that luscious bite.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and lets the banana flavors shine without overwhelming them.
Large Eggs: Binds the cheesecake together for a silky, sturdy layer.
Sour Cream: Adds a subtle tang and keeps the cheesecake moist and creamy.
Instant Banana Pudding Mix: Infuses banana flavor into every layer, tying the entire cake together.
Cold Milk: Gives the pudding its creamy, classic texture.
Heavy Cream: Makes the pudding even silkier and richer—totally worth it!
Whipped Topping: A light, fluffy finish that balances out the richness of the other layers.
Bananas: Fresh slices offer a burst of real banana and a pop of color on top.
Crushed Vanilla Wafers: All the nostalgia and crunch of your favorite banana pudding dessert.

How to Make Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Preheat your oven to 325°F and get your 9-inch springform pan ready by lining it with parchment and greasing lightly. Blend the softened cream cheese and sugar until velvety smooth. Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each. Mix in sour cream and vanilla—this is where the magic of the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe begins. Pour the mixture into your pan and bake for 35–40 minutes until the center is just set. Let it cool fully, then refrigerate so it firms up perfectly for stacking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Layers

Prepare your yellow cake mix according to the box directions, but don’t forget that splash of vanilla extract! Divide the batter evenly into two greased 9-inch round pans and slide them into the oven. Bake as directed on the box, then let both layers cool completely. These will bookend your cheesecake and pudding for gorgeous awesomeness in every forkful.

Step 3: Make the Banana Pudding Layer

Mix up the instant banana pudding with cold milk and a touch of heavy cream, whisking until it thickens up and becomes irresistible. Let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to put everything together—this extra step makes sure your pudding layer is thick enough to hold its own.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Now the best part—the big build! Place your first cake layer on your favorite cake stand or plate. Spread half the banana pudding over it, creating a soft, dreamy layer. Gently add the cheesecake layer right on top. Spread the rest of the pudding over the cheesecake, then crown it all with your second cake layer. Coat the entire cake in whipped topping, then shower the top with banana slices and a generous hand of crushed vanilla wafers. For best flavor and texture, chill the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe for at least two hours before slicing.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a classic Southern finish, pile on plenty of fresh banana slices and a happy handful of crushed vanilla wafers. They give every slice a lovely contrast in texture and that nostalgic banana pudding vibe. Want to get fancy? A drizzle of caramel sauce or even a sprinkle of ground cinnamon can take it right over the top.

Side Dishes

This cake shines brightest on its own, but if you’re hosting a party, add some vanilla bean ice cream on the side, a fresh fruit salad, or even a mug of cold milk. These simple sides don’t compete and make the Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe feel like a true celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

To wow your guests, try serving individual slices in wide dessert glasses layered with extra pudding and wafers for a stunning trifle effect. Or, cut the cake into mini squares for a bite-sized treat at baby showers and brunches. The gorgeous layers always steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe should be covered well and refrigerated. The cake will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days—just keep those banana slices fresh by adding new ones right before serving if needed.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake in individual slices for a quick dessert fix! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh topping and bananas when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this cake is best enjoyed chilled! If you’ve frozen slices, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant?

Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade pudding, go for it. Just be sure it’s thick enough to stand up in the layers, so your Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe doesn’t slip or slide.

Can I make the cake layers from scratch?

Yes—you can swap the boxed mix for your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe. Just ensure you bake two 9-inch layers so everything stacks up perfectly.

How far in advance can I make this cake?

It’s actually best when made a day ahead! This gives all the flavors time to mingle and the layers to firm up, making slicing clean and easy.

Do the bananas brown if I make it ahead?

Banana slices can brown, so add them right before serving for the prettiest presentation. A little lemon juice on the slices can also help keep them fresh-looking.

Can I use stabilized whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Of course! Stabilized whipped cream is a fantastic homemade alternative to store-bought whipped topping, and it holds up nicely on the cake.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a show-stopping, joy-sparking dessert, don’t miss out on trying this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe. Every layer is a happy bite of nostalgia and creaminess. Trust me—once you share this with friends and family, it will become a highly requested favorite!

Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours (including cooling and chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate dessert with this Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cake recipe. Layers of moist yellow cake, creamy cheesecake, and luscious banana pudding come together for a decadent treat that will impress any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Layers:

1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Cheesecake Layer:

2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Banana Pudding Layer:

1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
1/2 cup heavy cream

Whipped Topping and Assembly:

2 cups whipped topping or stabilized whipped cream
1–2 bananas (sliced)
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers

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Instructions

Make the Cheesecake Layer: Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and lightly grease. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla. Pour into pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until center is just set. Cool completely, then refrigerate until ready to assemble.
Make the Cake Layers: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions, adding vanilla extract. Divide batter evenly between two 9-inch round pans. Bake according to package directions. Let cool completely.
Make the Banana Pudding Layer: In a bowl, whisk together banana pudding mix, milk, and heavy cream until thickened. Refrigerate until assembly.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the banana pudding on top. Gently place the cheesecake layer over the pudding. Spread the remaining banana pudding over the cheesecake. Top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides with whipped topping. Garnish with sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers. Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Notes

For best results, assemble the cake the day before and garnish with fresh bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
You can use homemade banana pudding or whipped cream if preferred.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American