Banoffee Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• Crust:
  • 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter, melted
• Toffee Sauce Filling:
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup whipping cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cheesecake:
  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups whipping cream
  • 1 (3.4-ounce) package vanilla-flavor instant pudding mix
  • 5 tablespoons banana-flavor instant pudding mix (about 1/2 of 3.4-ounce package)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large bananas, thinly sliced
• Toppers:
  • 2 cups sweetened whipped cream
  • chocolate shavings

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust: Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting excess overhang on two sides. In a medium bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs and white sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Toffee Sauce Filling: In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and bring to a boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Carefully stir in 1/3 cup whipping cream, then bring to a boil again. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add sweetened condensed milk and 1 1/2 cups whipping cream. Beat until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the vanilla pudding mix, banana pudding mix, 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fully combined. The mixture will be thick.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars: Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Layer the toffee sauce filling on top, spreading it into an even layer. Arrange the banana slices in an even layer over the toffee sauce. Carefully dollop and spread the remaining pudding mixture over the bananas to form an even layer.
5. Chill: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
6. Serve: Once chilled, cut the dessert into 16 bars. Top each bar with a generous dollop of sweetened whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	472
Total Fat	32g
Saturated Fat	19g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	332mg
Total Carbohydrates	42g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	35g
Protein	6g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	166mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	282mg

Servings Per Recipe: 16

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. ** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Consult your doctor or registered dietitian if you have dietary restrictions.

These no-bake Banoffee Cheesecake Bars are a deliciously indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of banana, toffee, and cheesecake. With a graham cracker crust, homemade toffee sauce, and a creamy cheesecake filling, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

History of Banoffee Cheesecake Bars

The origins of Banoffee pie, the inspiration for these cheesecake bars, can be traced back to the United Kingdom. Created in the 1970s by Nigel Mackenzie and his wife, the dessert quickly became a favorite in British households. The name "Banoffee" is a blend of the words "banana" and "toffee," highlighting the two primary flavors. Over time, Banoffee pie evolved into various forms, including the no-bake cheesecake variation, which is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Regional Variations

While the Banoffee pie was first created in the UK, variations of this dessert can be found around the world. In the United States, the concept has been adapted into a variety of desserts, from traditional pies to these convenient cheesecake bars. The addition of cheesecake filling adds a creamy twist to the original pie, and it's a favorite in many American kitchens. The recipe can also be adjusted for different dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegan versions, making it versatile for various occasions.

What Makes It Different from Similar Desserts

Banoffee Cheesecake Bars stand out due to their combination of three key components: a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich toffee sauce filling, and a creamy, no-bake cheesecake layer. While Banoffee pie is often made with a traditional pie crust and a more compact toffee layer, these bars offer a lighter, more delicate texture, thanks to the cheesecake filling. Additionally, the bars can be cut into individual servings, making them more convenient for parties and gatherings than a traditional pie.

Where Banoffee Cheesecake Bars Are Typically Served

These Banoffee Cheesecake Bars are a popular choice at parties, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. Their no-bake nature makes them easy to prepare in advance, which is a major advantage when hosting events. They are often served chilled, making them perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners. In the UK, they might be found in cafes or bakeries that specialize in traditional desserts with a modern twist, while in the U.S., they are often seen as a trendy dessert in upscale restaurants or home parties.

Interesting Facts

• The original Banoffee pie was created in 1972 at The Hungry Monk restaurant in East Sussex, England.
• The Banoffee Cheesecake Bars recipe allows for flexibility with the toppingssome people like to drizzle extra toffee sauce or sprinkle chocolate shavings on top, making them even more decadent.
• Bananas, the key ingredient in this dessert, are a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia and have been a staple in many cultures' diets for centuries.
• Banoffee bars, like their pie counterpart, are known for their indulgence, with each bite delivering a balance of sweetness and creamy texture, often leading to the phrase "you can't eat just one!"

In conclusion, Banoffee Cheesecake Bars are not just a delicious treat; they represent a beloved evolution of the classic Banoffee pie. Whether you're enjoying them at a summer party or as a comforting dessert after dinner, they bring together some of the best flavors in dessert-making. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

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