Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
Bake the Cheesecake Layer:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Prepare the Banana Cream Layer:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana pudding mixture until well combined.
Spread the banana cream mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.
Chill:
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serve:
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the baking dish and onto a cutting board.
Cut into squares and garnish with sliced bananas, whipped cream, and crushed graham crackers.
Enjoy these delicious Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars as a perfect dessert for any occasion!
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