Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Make the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Combine crushed vanilla wafers, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cheesecake Base:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until well combined. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix just until smooth—don’t overbeat.
3️⃣ Divide and Flavor the Batter:
Split the cheesecake batter evenly into two bowls.
- In one bowl, stir in strawberry jam and strawberry gelatin powder. Add red food coloring if desired.
- In the second bowl, leave plain or stir in a tablespoon of banana pudding mix for a stronger banana flavor.
4️⃣ Layer and Bake:
Pour the banana pudding cheesecake layer over the cooled crust first. Then gently spoon the strawberry cheesecake layer on top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5️⃣ Make the Banana Topping:
Whisk together banana pudding mix and milk until thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Spread evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
6️⃣ Add Strawberry Crunch Topping:
Mix crushed cookies with strawberry gelatin powder and melted butter. Sprinkle generously over the top of the cheesecake for that classic strawberry shortcake crunch.
7️⃣ Slice and Serve:
Top with banana slices, fresh strawberries, or extra whipped topping before serving. Slice and enjoy every creamy, fruity layer!
Pro Tips for Dessert Success:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps everything blend smoothly and prevents lumps in your cheesecake.
- Avoid Cracks: Don’t overbake! Turn off the oven when the center is slightly jiggly, and let the cheesecake cool slowly.
- Make It Ahead: This dessert needs chill time, so it’s perfect for prepping the day before your event.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert Duo:
- Two Desserts in One: It’s strawberry shortcake meets banana pudding—all in cheesecake form!
- No-Fail Crust: The vanilla wafer base is buttery and crisp every time.
- Crowd Favorite: Rich, nostalgic flavors that both kids and adults love.
Nutritional Info (per slice, approx.):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQ About This Cheesecake Duo:
Can I use fresh strawberries or bananas?
Yes! Fresh strawberries can be pureed for the strawberry layer, and banana slices make a great garnish—just add them right before serving to avoid browning.
Can I make it in a 9×13 pan instead of a springform?
Absolutely. The layers will be thinner, but it still works great.
Can I freeze it?
Yes—wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Cracked cheesecake?
No worries—just cover it with whipped topping and crunchy topping. Delicious either way!
Cheesecake too soft?
Make sure it chills for a full 4 hours, preferably overnight. It firms up perfectly with time.
Strawberry layer sinking?
Be sure the banana layer is firm before adding the strawberry mixture on top.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Peach Cobbler Style: Use peach preserves instead of strawberry and top with crumbled cinnamon cookies.
- Chocolate Banana Split: Add a chocolate ganache layer and top with banana slices and maraschino cherries.
- Lemon Berry Twist: Swap the pudding for lemon flavor and use mixed berry jam in the top layer.
Perfect for Any Celebration:
This Strawberry Crunch & Banana Pudding Cheesecake is guaranteed to steal the show—whether it’s a birthday, holiday feast, or summer BBQ. Sweet, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it’s a dessert that truly delivers.
Success with the Dessert Duo:
This cheesecake is a layered labor of love that pays off in every creamy, fruity, crunchy bite. Keep it chilled, serve it cold, and watch it disappear fast!
Made it? Snap a pic and tag your dessert masterpiece—we want to see your Ultimate Dessert Duo in action!
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