Description
These no-bake banana cream pie bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy banana pudding filling, and fluffy whipped topping—all layered up for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a nostalgic treat without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 crackers, crushed very fine)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch salt
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: extra banana slices for topping
- Optional: mini vanilla wafers or graham cracker pieces
- Optional: toasted coconut flakes or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8-inch pan. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.
- Mix the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Let sit for 3-5 minutes to set.
- Blend the cream cheese: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Combine filling layers: Fold the cream cheese mixture into the pudding until fully combined. Gently fold in sliced bananas.
- Assemble the bars: Spread the banana cream filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Make the whipped topping: In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Top and chill: Spread whipped cream over the filling. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours (4 hours is best) to set.
- Slice and serve: Just before serving, add extra banana slices or other garnishes. Slice with a sharp knife run under hot water for clean edges. Serve cold.
Notes
For best results, chill the bars for at least 4 hours for clean slices. Use ripe but not mushy bananas. Chill your bowl and beaters before whipping cream for the fluffiest topping. For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers. Add garnishes like banana slices or chocolate shavings just before serving to keep them fresh.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (1/12 of pan)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 13
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: no-bake, banana cream pie, dessert bars, easy dessert, party dessert, summer dessert, potluck, creamy, graham cracker crust, whipped cream, pudding, family favorite