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

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

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Base:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ 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

For the Banana Pudding Layer (optional but for the ultimate duo):

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 cup whipped cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tbsp sugar (optional, for macerating)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers with melted butter and sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan (or a springform pan for easier removal).
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool completely.

2. Make the Cheesecake Base:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
3. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Layer:

1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed golden Oreos with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

4. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is almost set (it may jiggle slightly).
2. Remove from oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer (Optional for Duo Effect):

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
2. Fold in 1 cup whipped cream for extra creaminess.
3. Layer sliced bananas on top of the cooled cheesecake, then spread the banana pudding mixture over them.

6. Prepare the Strawberry Topping:

1. Slice fresh strawberries and mix with 2 tbsp sugar if desired to release juices.
2. Arrange strawberries on top of the cheesecake, either over the strawberry crunch layer or over the banana pudding layer if using.

7. Serve:

• Slice into squares or wedges.
• Optional: garnish with whipped cream, extra crushed Oreos, or fresh strawberry slices.

Tips:

• Use a springform pan for easier removal if making a layered cheesecake.
• For a more decadent crunch, lightly toast the crushed Oreos before adding butter.
• Make the dessert a day ahead—the flavors meld beautifully overnight!