Save
Banana Cheesecake Cones are my favorite kind of playful dessert the kind that gets everyone smiling These cones blend creamy cheesecake with nostalgic banana pudding and then deliver it all in a crisp crunchy cone There is no baking required just quick mixing and layering which makes these perfect for lastminute gatherings or a weekend treat when you want something sweet but not fussy
I first made these for a birthday party and now my nieces beg for them every family event I am always surprised how adults race the kids for seconds
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: choose fullfat for richness let it sit out to soften for easy blending
- Granulated sugar: for balanced sweetness use superfine if possible for smooth texture
- Vanilla extract: adds aromatic warmth pure vanilla gives the best flavor
- Sour cream: gives a tangy lift to the cheesecake layer use fresh for brightness
- Heavy cream: whips the filling light and fluffy buy cold for best whipping volume
- Banana puree: makes the base fruity blend very ripe bananas for extra sweetness
- Crushed vanilla wafers: give crunch and a nostalgic flavor pulse until coarse but not powdery
- Ground cinnamon: optional try a pinch for cozy warmth especially in cooler months
- Whole milk: forms the creamy base for banana pudding use fresh dairy for best texture
- More sugar: to sweeten the pudding layer adjust to your taste if you want it less sweet
- Cornstarch: thickens the pudding sift in to avoid lumps
- Salt: just a pinch to balance the sweetness
- Sliced bananas: add fresh banana pops to the cones choose bananas with no black spots
- Ice cream cones: want sturdy waffle or sugar cones for holding the layers
- Whipped cream: can be prepared or homemade for a finishing flourish
- Extra banana slices: extra wafers for layering and decorating at the end
StepbyStep Instructions
- Prepare Banana Pudding:
- In a saucepan whisk milk sugar cornstarch and salt until totally smooth Place on medium heat and cook stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon about seven to ten minutes Take off heat and mix in vanilla extract Transfer to a bowl and let cool then chill in the refrigerator until cold
- Make Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl beat the cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until completely silky With the mixer running add sugar and vanilla Next mix in sour cream and heavy cream until light and fluffy Gently fold in banana puree crushed vanilla wafers and cinnamon if using Cover and chill in the fridge for thirty minutes so the filling sets up and flavors meld
- Assemble the Cones:
- Take your cones and set them upright I like to use a tall glass for holding them steady Spoon or pipe cheesecake filling into each cone packing it down with a spoon or piping it in for neatness Next layer chilled banana pudding right on top Add a few fresh banana slices as you go
- Top and Garnish:
- Right before serving crown each cone with a swirl of whipped cream Then finish with extra banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers for crunch and color Serve immediately for maximum crunch or keep in the fridge until ready to eat
Save
I love how the vanilla wafers turn almost cakey inside the cones It reminds me of Sunday desserts at my grandmas where every pudding had hidden vanilla cookie bits It is always fun to watch my family guess how many bananas went into the recipe
Storage Tips
For best texture store the cheesecake mixture and pudding separately in covered bowls in the fridge Once assembled the filled cones will start to soften after a few hours Due to the banana slices these are best enjoyed within twenty four hours
Ingredient Substitutions
Lactosefree cream cheese and coconut cream work well for a dairyfree option Swap out the vanilla wafers for any crunchy cookie you love Chocolate chip cookies or graham crackers make delicious substitutes If you are short on bananas canned banana puree can be used but ripe fresh bananas always taste best
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cones upright in a cone holder glasses or mason jars for a festive party display These make a fun dessert buffet where everyone can top their own Use sprinkles chocolate drizzle or a cherry for toppings for a birthdaystyle treat
Save
A Bit of History
Banana pudding and cheesecake both have deep roots in American dessert culture merging classic southern flavors with the creamy extravagance of cheesecake Putting them together in a cone makes dessert portable and interactive Kids and adults alike love anything you can eat with your hands and these cones became an instant favorite in my kitchen after the very first batch
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different fruit besides banana?
Yes, you can substitute the banana with fruits like strawberries or mangoes to tailor the flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture.
- → What type of cones work best?
Waffle or sugar cones are ideal as they provide a sturdy base and a delightful crunch that pairs well with creamy fillings.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Assemble shortly before serving to avoid soggy cones, but you can prepare the cheesecake and pudding components in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.
- → Is it possible to make this treat lighter?
You may use light cream cheese, reduced-fat sour cream, or a dairy-free alternative to lighten the dessert without compromising too much on flavor.
- → How do I prevent the cones from becoming soggy?
Fill the cones just before serving and avoid overfilling. Chilling the filling ensures it stays firm and less likely to soak through the cone quickly.