Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

For Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed Nilla Wafers
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Pinch of sea salt

For Filling:

• 1 1/2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
• 1 (3.4-oz.) package instant banana pudding mix
• 1 3/4 cups whole milk

For Topping:

• Whipped topping
• 1/2 banana, sliced
• 9 Nilla Wafers

Instructions:

1. Line an 8″x8″ pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine crushed Nilla wafers with melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of sea salt. Press the mixture into an even layer in the prepared pan. Place in the freezer while making the filling.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy and no clumps remain. Add sugar and beat until combined. Fold in the whipped topping and set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and whole milk. Let the pudding stand in the fridge for 3 minutes until thickened. Fold the thickened pudding into the cheesecake mixture until well combined.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth it into an even layer. Freeze the bars until firm, at least 6 hours or overnight.
6. Once firm, remove the bars from the freezer and slice them into 9 bars. Top each bar with a dollop of whipped topping, a slice of banana, and a Nilla Wafer before serving.

These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars are a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and classic banana pudding flavors. Enjoy this delicious treat with friends and family!