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If you have a sweet tooth and love the rich harmony of bananas, cream cheese, and cookie butter, then you’re going to adore this Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Recipe. It’s a breathtakingly luscious dessert that marries the creamy tang of cheesecake with the nostalgic warmth of banana pudding and the irresistible crunch of cookie butter cookies. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this layered cake is an absolute showstopper that brings comfort and luxury into every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Recipe relies on a handful of accessible yet essential ingredients that work together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component adds its own magic, ensuring the final cake is moist, creamy, and bursting with banana and cookie butter goodness.
- Ripe bananas: Mashed to lend natural sweetness and that classic banana pudding flavor.
- Vanilla instant pudding mix: Adds smoothness and a hint of classic vanilla warmth.
- Milk: Required to set the pudding layer just right.
- Vanilla extract: Used twice for an extra depth of vanilla aroma.
- Whipped cream: Creates a light, fluffy texture and balances the richness in different layers.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient for the cheesecake layer, giving tang and creaminess.
- Cookie butter: Introduces a spiced, caramelized cookie flavor that makes this cake unforgettable.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the cheesecake batter perfectly.
- Eggs: Provide structure and moisture in both the cake and cheesecake layers.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and moistens the cheesecake layer for a tender crumb.
- Yellow cake mix: The base for the cake layer, delivering moistness and a golden crumb.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake layer moist and tender.
- Water: Necessary to blend with the cake mix for just the right consistency.
- Crushed Biscoff cookies or graham crackers: Optional for a crunchy, flavorful topping.
- Sliced bananas: Perfect for a fresh, pretty garnish.
How to Make Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer
Start by whisking the vanilla instant pudding mix with milk in a medium bowl and allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it forms the luscious banana pudding base that will add moisture and flavor to your layered cake.
Step 2: Add Bananas and Vanilla
Once the pudding is set, fold in the mashed ripe bananas and a teaspoon of fresh vanilla extract. This not only enhances the banana flavor but also infuses the pudding with an inviting vanilla aroma that permeates every bite.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana pudding mixture. This technique lightens the texture and creates a dreamy, fluffy pudding layer that will contrast beautifully with the denser cheesecake and cake layers later on.
Step 4: Chill the Pudding Layer
Place this banana pudding mixture in the refrigerator while you move on to preparing the cake and cheesecake components. Chilling helps it set properly and makes assembly easier.
Step 5: Mix the Yellow Cake Batter
Combine the yellow cake mix with eggs, vegetable oil, and water following package or recipe instructions. This simple, moist cake forms the sturdy yet tender base that perfectly balances the creamy layers above.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Beat together softened cream cheese, cookie butter, powdered sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and luscious. The cookie butter adds an addictive cinnamon-spiced flavor that transforms this cheesecake into something truly special.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan, then carefully layer the cheesecake mixture on top. Bake according to the cake mix directions—usually until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. The result is a beautifully marbled dessert that’s part cake, part cheesecake, all deliciousness.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant finish, pile a generous dollop of whipped cream on each slice and sprinkle with crushed Biscoff cookies or graham crackers. Fresh banana slices add a lovely fruity pop and make every serving look irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
This dessert is a showpiece on its own but pairs excellently with a cup of strong coffee, iced tea, or even a cold glass of milk. For a dessert party, consider fresh berries on the side to balance the richness with a touch of tartness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling extra fancy, serve this cake in individual glass parfaits, layering spoonfuls of banana pudding, cake chunks, and cheesecake mixture, topped with whipped cream and cookie crumbles. It’s a fun, interactive take on the classic layered cake that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each subsequent slice even more delightful. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent the cake from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze this Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Recipe, but for best texture, freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the creamy texture and luscious flavors.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm slice, gently warm a piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or the cream layers may soften too much.
FAQs
Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant mix?
Absolutely! Homemade pudding will add a fresh, natural banana flavor. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape in the cake layers.
Is cookie butter essential or can I substitute something else?
Cookie butter is what gives this cheesecake its signature spiced caramel flavor, but you could substitute with peanut butter or speculoos spread for a different twist.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your cookie butter or spread is gluten-free. Also, opt for gluten-free cookies for the topping.
How long does the cake take to bake?
Baking times vary but expect around 45-55 minutes at 350°F depending on your pan and oven. Always use the toothpick test to check doneness.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
You can double the ingredients, but use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly. Watch the cake closely to prevent overbaking.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Recipe is truly a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines comforting banana pudding, rich cheesecake, and spiced cookie butter in a way that’s both nostalgic and delightfully new. Give it a try next time you want to impress friends or indulge in a little homemade magic that’s sure to become a cherished favorite!
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Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Banana Pudding Cookie Butter Cheesecake Cake combines creamy banana pudding with a rich cookie butter cheesecake layer and a moist yellow cake base, topped with whipped cream, crushed cookies, and fresh banana slices for a decadent, multi-layered dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Banana Pudding Layer
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
Cookie Butter Cheesecake Layer
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cookie butter (such as Biscoff)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Cake Layer
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade cake batter)
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
Garnish
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (for garnish)
- Crushed Biscoff cookies or graham crackers for topping (optional)
- Sliced bananas for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Banana Pudding Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
- Mix in Bananas and Vanilla: Fold the mashed bananas and vanilla extract gently into the thickened pudding mixture to combine flavors.
- Incorporate Whipped Cream: Carefully fold in the whipped cream to create a smooth, fluffy banana pudding layer. Set this mixture aside in the refrigerator while preparing the other layers.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, cookie butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream until fully combined.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a separate bowl, mix the yellow cake mix with eggs, vegetable oil, and water according to package instructions or until smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the cake batter into a greased baking pan and bake according to the cake mix package directions (usually 25-30 minutes at 350°F/175°C) until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Add the Cheesecake Layer: Once the cake is cooled, gently pour or spread the cookie butter cheesecake mixture evenly over the cake layer.
- Top with Banana Pudding Layer: Spoon or spread the prepared banana pudding layer evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for several hours or overnight to allow all layers to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the cake with whipped cream, crushed Biscoff cookies or graham crackers if using, and fresh sliced bananas for a decorative and flavorful finish.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor in the pudding layer.
- Chilling the cake overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
- The cake mix can be substituted with homemade yellow cake batter if preferred.
- For a firmer pudding layer, use less whipped cream or increase pudding mix slightly.
- Optional toppings add texture but can be omitted if desired.
