Name: Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3.4 oz package of instant banana pudding mix; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ box Nilla Wafers; 4 bananas; 1 tbsp lemon juice (for tossing bananas)

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug and a burst of fresh fruit all at once, the Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful treat combines creamy cheesecake richness, the smooth sweetness of banana pudding, and the satisfying crunch of Nilla wafers, layered beautifully to create an irresistible parfait. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a comforting dessert that comes together quickly yet feels wonderfully indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a bunch of bright yellow bananas in the top left corner on a white marbled surface. Below the bananas, there is a rectangular block of white cream cheese on parchment paper. Near the center, a halved lemon is placed upright showing the yellow inside. Toward the top right, a glass jar filled with milk is visible. Below the milk jar, there is a small white bowl filled with white powdered sugar and a small wooden scoop resting inside. Next to that, a small clear glass container holds a dark brown liquid, likely vanilla extract. In the bottom left, a white bowl contains light brown round vanilla wafer cookies, with two more cookies placed outside the bowl on the marble surface. A yellow box of banana cream JELL-O pudding mix lies near the center, the packaging is predominantly yellow with red text. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Preparing this Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe is such a joy because it depends on simple, everyday ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the final dish. Every component adds a layer of flavor, texture, or balance that makes this dessert truly memorable.

2 cups heavy cream: Provides the luscious whipped cream layers that add lightness and creaminess.
½ cup powdered sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness without any graininess.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, fragrant notes.
½ box Nilla Wafers: Brings a buttery, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
4 bananas: Fresh and ripe bananas add natural sweetness and soft texture to the parfait.
8 oz cream cheese: The base of the cheesecake layer, creating that rich, tangy flavor you love in cheesecake.
1 tsp vanilla: Additional vanilla for the cheesecake pudding layer to deepen the flavor.
3.4 oz package of instant banana pudding mix: Gives the parfait its signature banana pudding flavor and smooth consistency.
Lemon juice: Prevents the banana slices from browning while adding a subtle brightness.

How to Make Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Cheesecake Pudding Layer

Start by beating the cream cheese with vanilla until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the rich, tangy foundation of your parfait. Then, fold in the instant banana pudding mix to infuse it with that classic banana flavor and luscious texture. Gradually pour in the heavy cream with your mixer on a low speed, combining everything until the mixture is perfectly smooth. Finally, mix in the powdered sugar slowly to sweeten the blend just right without overwhelming any other flavors.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

Next, it’s time to create the airy whipped cream layer. Using an electric mixer, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. This fluffy layer will add a cloud-like contrast to the denser cheesecake pudding and make the parfait feel extra special.

Step 3: Prepare the Nilla Wafers and Bananas

Break the Nilla Wafers into large chunks—this will give your parfait delightful crunch in every bite. For the bananas, slice them and toss gently with lemon juice to keep them fresh and prevent browning, ensuring your parfait stays looking vibrant.

Step 4: Assemble the Parfait

Now the fun part—layering! Begin with a base of Nilla wafer pieces at the bottom of your jar or cup. Follow with a generous scoop of the banana cheesecake pudding mixture, then add a layer of banana slices. Top this with a cloud of whipped cream. Repeat these layers until your jar is full, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and a few decorative wafer crumbs or banana slices for a picture-perfect finish. Your Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe

A clear glass mixing bowl filled with three layers of ingredients: a white creamy liquid base, a pile of white powder on one side, and a small light brown patch of vanilla or syrup on the top center. To the top left, there is a small bunch of yellow bananas, above the bowl a white small handled container holds more white powder with a small wooden scoop in it, and next to that a small glass jar with dark brown liquid inside. All items are placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate this parfait to show-stopping status. Consider sprinkling crushed Nilla wafers, a few banana slices, or even a light dusting of cinnamon on top. These additions not only add visual appeal but also enhance the textures and flavors with every bite.

Side Dishes

This parfait shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a light, fresh fruit salad or a cup of aromatic coffee or tea. The lightness of a citrusy fruit salad complements the richness of the cheesecake pudding perfectly, balancing the dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe in mason jars for a rustic, charming vibe, or use elegant glassware to make it feel more upscale. Layering in clear containers lets the beautiful stripes of banana, cream, and wafers shine through, making the presentation just as delightful as the taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh bananas, it’s best eaten within 1-2 days to enjoy optimal texture and flavor.

Freezing

Freezing this parfait is not recommended since the fresh banana slices will become mushy and the texture of the pudding will change. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Reheating is also not ideal for this dessert, as it is meant to be enjoyed chilled. However, allowing refrigerated parfaits to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving can soften the layers slightly and bring out the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pudding mix?

Absolutely! While banana pudding mix enhances the banana flavor beautifully, vanilla or butterscotch pudding could be fun alternatives to experiment with for a new twist.

How do I prevent the bananas from browning?

Tossing the sliced bananas with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting slows down the browning process and keeps them looking fresh and appetizing in your parfait.

Can this dessert be made vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese, heavy cream, and pudding mix with plant-based alternatives such as vegan cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and dairy-free pudding mix.

Is it okay to prepare the parfait in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the parfait closer to serving time to keep the wafers crunchy and bananas fresh.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe serves about 8 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or family dessert night.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about this Banana Cheesecake Pudding Parfait Recipe. It feels like a special occasion dessert but is simple enough to whip up on a whim. The layers of creamy cheesecake pudding, fresh bananas, crunchy Nilla wafers, and airy whipped cream come together harmoniously to create each indulgent bite. Trust me, once you try this parfait, it’ll become a go-to for easy, crowd-pleasing desserts you’ll want to share again and again.