Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake & Banana Pudding Cheesecake

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Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake & Banana Pudding Cheesecake – The Ultimate Dessert Duo

If you love desserts that are rich, creamy, and absolutely unforgettable, then you’re about to meet your new favorite indulgence. Today we’re combining two legendary flavors into one epic recipe: Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake and Banana Pudding Cheesecake. Each one is decadent on its own, but when paired together, they become the ultimate dessert duo – perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and over-the-top.

This recipe takes the creamy, velvety texture of cheesecake and elevates it with classic Southern-inspired flavors. The strawberry crunch topping brings back nostalgic memories of those strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, while the banana pudding version tastes like the classic comfort dessert you grew up loving – layered pudding, bananas, and wafers – all transformed into cheesecake form.

Why This Dessert Duo Works

Most people settle for just one cheesecake, but why not have both? Here’s why these two flavors are a match made in heaven:

  • Balance of flavors – Strawberry is fruity, bright, and sweet, while banana pudding is creamy, mellow, and nostalgic. Together, they create the perfect harmony.
  • Texture heaven – The buttery crust, silky cheesecake, crunchy topping, and pudding-like banana layer give you multiple textures in each bite.
  • Crowd-pleaser – Whether you serve these side by side or as mini versions, they’ll impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • ÂĽ cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Base:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • Âľ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Crunch Layer:

  • 1 cup crushed golden Oreos
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 packet strawberry gelatin mix (optional for extra color & flavor)

For the Banana Pudding Layer:

  • 1 cup vanilla pudding (prepared)
  • 1 medium banana, thinly sliced
  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Extra vanilla wafers for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers (or graham crackers), sugar, and melted butter.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
  4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Base

  1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add sugar and mix well.
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
  4. Stir in sour cream until fully combined.
  5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

  1. Place the cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water (water bath method) to prevent cracking.
  2. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is just set.
  3. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool gradually.
  4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4. Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping

  1. Crush golden Oreos in a food processor or by hand.
  2. Mix with melted butter (and strawberry gelatin mix, if using).
  3. Sprinkle generously over the cooled cheesecake.

5. Make the Banana Pudding Layer

  1. Spread a thin layer of vanilla pudding over a cooled cheesecake.
  2. Arrange banana slices evenly on top.
  3. Garnish with whipped cream and extra vanilla wafers.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve half strawberry crunch, half banana pudding for a stunning duo presentation.
  • Make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins, topping half with strawberry crunch and half with banana pudding.
  • Layer both flavors on a single cheesecake for a split-style dessert – one half strawberry, one half banana.

Tips for Success

  • Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth batter.
  • Don’t overbake – the center should jiggle slightly when you take it out.
  • Chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.
  • For extra wow factor, drizzle strawberry syrup on the strawberry version and caramel or vanilla pudding drizzle on the banana version.

Final Thoughts

If you’re torn between strawberry crunch and banana pudding, you don’t have to choose anymore. This ultimate dessert duo gives you the best of both worlds – a nostalgic flavor pairing that’s creamy, crunchy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a holiday table, or just treating yourself after a long week, this cheesecake recipe is guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

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