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INGREDIENTS:
2 blocks (16 oz.) cream cheese, softened
3/4 c. sugar
2 c. heavy cream
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 3.4-oz. package of instant vanilla pudding mix
1 3/4 c. whole milk
1 prepared graham cracker crust
3 bananas, sliced, plus more slices for garnish
30 Nilla Wafers, plus more for garnish
Whipped cream or Cool Whip, for serving
DIRECTIONS:
1. Make cheesecake filling: In a large bowl using a hand mixer or in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat cream cheese until fluffy and no clumps remain.
2. Add sugar and beat until combined. Add heavy cream and vanilla and beat until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk. Let pudding stand for 3 minutes in the fridge until thickened. Fold into cheesecake mixture until combined.
4. Pour half the filling into the graham cracker crust. Add a single layer of sliced bananas and Nilla Wafers (23 total), then pour over the remaining half of the mixture. Smooth top and garnish with crushed Nillas.
5. Refrigerate until cheesecake is firm, at least 6 hours and up to overnight. (If the cheesecake still feels too soft to slice, transfer to the freeze for up to 1 hour.)
6. Before serving, top with dollops of whipped cream or Cool Whip around the border of the cheesecake. Top each dollop with a banana slice and Nilla wafer, then garnish the whole cheesecake with more Nilla Wafers.
