Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars
1 1/2 c. crushed Nilla Wafers
5 tbsp. butter, melted
2 tbsp. sugar
Pinch sea salt
1 1/2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. sugar
1 1/2 c. whipped topping
1 (3.4-oz.) package instant banana pudding mix
1 3/4 c. whole milk
Line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine crushed Nilla wafers with butter, sugar, and salt. Press in an even layer into the prepared pan. Place in freezer while making filling. In a large bowl using a hand mixer (or in a stand mixer), beat cream cheese until fluffy and no clumps remain. Add sugar and beat until combined. Fold in whipped topping and set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together pudding mix and milk. Let pudding stand for 3 minutes in fridge, until thickened. Fold into cheesecake mixture until well combined. Pour filling into prepared crust and smooth into an even layer. Freeze until bars are firm, at least 6 hours and up to overnight. When firm, remove from freezer and slice into 9 bars. Top each bar with a dollop of whipped topping, a slice of banana, and a Nilla Wafer before serving.