If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping no-bake dessert that’s as easy to pull together as it is delicious, the Banana Cheesecake Parfait is here to sweep you off your feet! This dreamy treat layers creamy cheesecake filling, fresh bananas, and buttery graham cracker crumbs for a textural symphony in every spoonful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping a family treat, or just craving something sweet, this Banana Cheesecake Parfait is bound to become your new favorite indulgence.

Banana Cheesecake Parfait Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe brings something special to the table, from the rich cream cheese to the sweet bananas and that irresistible graham cracker crunch. These simple yet essential components work together to create the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and color in every parfait glass.

Bananas (2 ripe, sliced): The star of the show, ripe bananas add natural sweetness and a silky texture.
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): This gives the parfait its classic cheesecake richness and a smooth, velvety base.
Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup, plain or vanilla): Adds a delightful tang and lightens up the filling, making it extra creamy.
Powdered Sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer without any grittiness.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and amps up the dessert’s aroma.
Whipped Topping (1 cup) or Homemade Whipped Cream: Folds in airy fluffiness and balances the richness.
Crushed Graham Crackers (1 cup): Offers a buttery, crunchy base and layers for the parfait.
Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Binds the graham cracker crumbs and adds a hint of indulgence.
Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon): Boosts the depth of flavor in the crust with caramel notes.
Whipped Cream and Banana Slices (for topping): Perfect for finishing off each parfait with flair.
Crushed Nuts or Caramel Drizzle (optional): Add extra texture or sweetness if you want to take it over the top.

How to Make Banana Cheesecake Parfait

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Base

In a small bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix everything together until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand. This buttery mixture forms the delicious, crunchy foundation for your Banana Cheesecake Parfait, so don’t skimp on mixing it thoroughly!

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Add in the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is light, fluffy, and luscious. Gently fold in the whipped topping, taking care not to deflate it—this step is what gives your filling that cloud-like texture we all love in a Banana Cheesecake Parfait.

Step 3: Slice the Bananas

Peel and slice your ripe bananas into even rounds. If you want to keep them from browning, toss the slices with a splash of lemon juice. This not only preserves their sunny color, but also adds a subtle brightness to each bite.

Step 4: Layer the Parfaits

To assemble, spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each glass or jar. Add a generous layer of the cheesecake filling, then cover with a layer of sliced bananas. Repeat these layers until your glass is full, making sure to finish with a creamy cheesecake layer on top for the ultimate visual and flavor impact.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Pop your assembled Banana Cheesecake Parfaits into the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 1 hour. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the texture set, ensuring each spoonful is perfectly creamy, cool, and cohesive.

How to Serve Banana Cheesecake Parfait

Garnishes

Sprinkle the top of each Banana Cheesecake Parfait with an extra swirl of whipped cream, a few banana slices, and, if you’re feeling fancy, a scatter of crushed nuts or a drizzle of silky caramel. Not only do these garnishes make your parfaits look irresistible, but they also add pops of texture and flavor that make every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

These parfaits are a dessert superstar all on their own, but if you want to create a full dessert spread, serve them alongside crispy butter cookies, fresh berries, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy parfait pairs beautifully with almost any sweet treat or fruit platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, layer your Banana Cheesecake Parfait in small mason jars or elegant dessert glasses. You can even set up a parfait bar at parties, letting guests build their own with different toppings like chocolate chips, toasted coconut, or berries. The possibilities are as fun and endless as your imagination!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), cover each parfait tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, though the bananas may soften a bit over time.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze Banana Cheesecake Parfait, the texture of the bananas and cream filling may change when thawed. For best results, freeze the cheesecake mixture and graham cracker crumbs separately, then assemble with fresh bananas just before serving.

Reheating

Good news: there’s no reheating required! These parfaits are best enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. If your parfait is a bit too cold, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before digging in.

FAQs

Can I make Banana Cheesecake Parfait ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the parfaits up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just add the final garnish of whipped cream and banana slices right before serving for the freshest look and flavor.

What’s the best way to prevent the bananas from browning?

A quick toss of the banana slices in a bit of lemon juice works wonders to keep them looking fresh and bright. The tartness won’t overpower the dessert but will help maintain that appealing yellow color.

Can I use different cookies or crackers instead of graham crackers?

Definitely! Try using vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even chocolate cookies for a fun twist. Each type Dessert.

Is it possible to make this parfait gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the regular graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free variety. All the other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt for dietary needs.

Can I use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives?

Of course! Substitute low-fat cream cheese, non-dairy yogurt, and a coconut-based whipped topping if you’d like a lighter or dairy-free version. The parfait will still taste creamy and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There’s something simply magical about the combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet bananas, and buttery crumbs in this Banana Cheesecake Parfait. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special occasion or just treating yourself, you’ll fall in love with how easy and irresistible this dessert is. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be wishing you made a double batch!

Banana Cheesecake Parfait Recipe

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4.7 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4 parfaits 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Banana Cheesecake Parfait is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy cheesecake filling, fresh banana slices, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for an easy yet indulgent treat, it combines smooth cream cheese and Greek yogurt with the natural sweetness of bananas, making it a refreshing and satisfying dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust

1 cup crushed graham crackers
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar

Cheesecake Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped topping or homemade whipped cream

Fruit and Toppings

2 ripe bananas, sliced
Whipped cream for topping
Optional: crushed nuts or caramel drizzle

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust Mix: In a small bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and brown sugar, mixing until well blended. Set this mixture aside for layering.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped topping, careful not to deflate the mixture.
Assemble the Parfaits: In each serving glass or jar, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crust mixture as the base. Follow with a layer of cheesecake filling, then a layer of banana slices. Repeat layering, finishing with a top layer of cheesecake filling.
Chill: Place the assembled parfaits in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to set and meld the flavors.
Add Final Toppings: Before serving, garnish each parfait with extra whipped cream, additional banana slices, and optionally sprinkle with crushed nuts or drizzle with caramel sauce for added texture and sweetness.

Notes

Use small mason jars or dessert cups for a charming presentation and easy serving.
To keep banana slices from browning, gently toss them in a little lemon juice before layering.
For a lower sugar option, reduce the powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute suitable for desserts.
The parfaits are best consumed within 24 hours for freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American