Banana Pudding Dream Bars

If you’re a fan of classic banana pudding, you’re going to love this elevated version: Banana Pudding Dream Bars. These bars combine an Oreo cookie crust, layers of fresh bananas, a creamy banana cheesecake layer, luscious banana pudding, and a whipped topping that ties it all together. Finished with crushed Oreos on top, they’re decadent, dreamy, and perfect for dessert lovers of all ages.

Whether you’re making dessert for a potluck, a family gathering, or just because, these bars are simple to assemble but impressive enough to wow your friends and family. And the best part? No baking is required beyond chilling the crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Layered indulgence: Oreo crust, bananas, cream cheese layer, pudding, and whipped topping in one dessert.
• No-bake convenience: Perfect for warm days or when you don’t want to use the oven.
• Fresh fruit: Slices of banana keep the dessert light and fruity.
• Customizable: Swap Oreos for chocolate wafer cookies, or use stabilized whipped cream for extra structure.
• Fun presentation: Crushed Oreos on top make it visually appealing and irresistible.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes an 8×8-inch pan of Banana Pudding Dream Bars, serving multiple dessert lovers. Measurements are kept exactly as provided.

For the Oreo Crust

• 28 Golden Oreos, divided
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Banana Cheesecake Layer

• 3 bananas, divided
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 8 ounces Cool Whip (or stabilized whipped cream), divided

For the Banana Pudding

• 3.9-ounce package instant banana pudding
• 1 ½ cups milk (see note below)

Topping

• Remaining 8 Oreos, crushed

Note: Use only 1 ½ cups of milk, not 2 cups as called for on the pudding package. This ensures a thicker pudding that’s perfect for slicing.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Blender or food processor (for crushing Oreos)
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Medium mixing bowls
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Offset spatula or regular spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic bag (for crushing Oreos)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

1. Using a blender or food processor, finely crush 20 of the Oreos.
2. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds or until fully melted.
3. Combine crushed Oreos and melted butter until evenly moistened.
4. Press the mixture firmly into an 8×8-inch ungreased baking dish to form the crust.
5. Place in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to chill and set.

Step 2: Prepare the Banana Pudding

1. In a small bowl, mix the instant banana pudding with 1 ½ cups milk until smooth.
2. Set aside to thicken while preparing the cheesecake layer.

Step 3: Make the Banana Cheesecake Layer

1. Mash one of the bananas in a small bowl.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the mashed banana and cream cheese using an electric mixer.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until smooth.
4. Fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip or stabilized whipped cream until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Slice the remaining two bananas and lay them evenly over the cooled Oreo crust.
2. Place dollops of the banana cheesecake mixture on top of the bananas.
3. Using an offset spatula, gently spread the cheesecake layer to completely cover the banana slices.
4. Evenly spread the banana pudding over the cream cheese mixture.
5. Top with the remaining Cool Whip to create a smooth layer.

Step 5: Chill

1. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow layers to set and flavors to meld.

Step 6: Finish with Oreo Crumbles

1. Place the remaining 8 Oreos in a plastic bag and crush.
2. Sprinkle the crushed Oreos evenly over the top of the bars just before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Thicker pudding: Use 1 ½ cups of milk for a thicker pudding that holds up well in layers.
• Stabilized whipped cream: For a firmer topping, use stabilized whipped cream instead of Cool Whip.
• Banana alternatives: Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness.
• Chocolate twist: Substitute Golden Oreos with chocolate Oreos for a richer flavor.
• Nut topping: Add chopped nuts on top for extra texture and crunch.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Sweet, creamy, and rich with the tropical banana flavor complemented by Oreo crunch.
• Texture: Crunchy crust, soft banana slices, creamy cheesecake layer, and smooth pudding.
• Best Occasions: Perfect for summer potlucks, family gatherings, or a decadent weeknight treat.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	438 kcal
Carbohydrates	63 g
Protein	5 g
Total Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	8 g
Trans Fat	1 g
Cholesterol	35 mg
Sodium	392 mg
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	42 g
Potassium	277 mg
Vitamin A	460 IU
Vitamin C	3 mg
Calcium	100 mg
Iron	1 mg

Dietary Notes: Contains dairy and gluten (from Oreos). Vegetarian-friendly.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Oreo crust: Can be pressed and chilled in advance.
• Banana cheesecake layer: Can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
• Banana slices: Slice right before assembly to prevent browning.
• Storage: Refrigerate covered for up to 2 days; longer storage may cause bananas to brown.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these bars without Oreos?
A: Yes, you can use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or any cookie of your choice. Adjust butter to hold the crust together.

Q2: Can I make them vegan?
A: Substitute cream cheese and Cool Whip with plant-based alternatives, and use vegan cookies.

Q3: How do I prevent bananas from browning?
A: Use ripe but firm bananas and assemble right before chilling. Optionally, brush slices with lemon juice.

Q4: Can I make mini bars?
A: Yes, halve the ingredients and use a smaller pan. Reduce chilling time slightly.

Q5: Can I make the pudding layer thicker?
A: Yes, use 1 ½ cups of milk instead of 2 cups to create a firmer, sliceable pudding.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep Oreo crust	10 min
Chill crust	30 min
Make pudding & cheesecake layers	20 min
Assemble bars	15 min
Chill	2 hours
Total	~2 hours 50 min

Serving Suggestions

• Cut into squares or rectangles for individual servings.
• Garnish with extra banana slices or mini Oreo pieces for presentation.
• Serve chilled for the perfect creamy texture.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Banana Dream Bars: Use chocolate Oreos for a richer, chocolatey crust.
2. Caramel Banana Bars: Drizzle caramel sauce over the Cool Whip layer before adding Oreo crumbles.
3. Peanut Butter Banana Bars: Add a layer of peanut butter between the Oreo crust and banana slices.
4. Tropical Banana Bars: Mix crushed pineapple into the pudding layer for a tropical twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Oreos

• Provide a crunchy base and textural contrast. Golden Oreos give a lighter, sweeter crust, but chocolate Oreos work for a more decadent variation.

Bananas

• Fresh bananas give natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Choose ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushy layers.

Cream Cheese

• Adds richness and stability to the dessert layers. Ensure it is softened for smooth blending.

Pro Baking Tips

• Room-temperature ingredients: Cream cheese and Cool Whip should be at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Firm crust: Chill the Oreo crust in the freezer before layering to prevent crumbling.
• Layer carefully: Spread the banana cheesecake mixture gently to avoid mashing banana slices.
• Chill thoroughly: Two hours minimum ensures bars hold their shape and are easy to slice.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Cover with plastic wrap and store for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Avoid soggy crust: Chill crust thoroughly before adding wet layers.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	438 kcal	Rich dessert portion
Carbohydrates	63 g	Includes sugar from pudding and Oreos
Protein	5 g	From cream cheese and Cool Whip
Fat	20 g	Butter and cream cheese contribute to richness
Saturated Fat	8 g	Mainly from cream cheese and butter
Sugar	42 g	Sweet pudding and cookies
Fiber	2 g	Minimal fiber from bananas and Oreos
Sodium	392 mg	From cookies and cream cheese

Expanded Conclusion

These Banana Pudding Dream Bars are the ultimate indulgent no-bake dessert. With layers of Oreo crust, fresh bananas, creamy banana cheesecake filling, banana pudding, and Cool Whip, every bite is rich, creamy, and delightful. Topped with crushed Oreos, they’re both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.

Perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or a weekend treat, these bars are easy to assemble, require minimal prep, and will disappear fast. Make a batch today and enjoy this dreamy, layered dessert that takes your favorite banana pudding to the next level.

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