Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones 🍌🍦🍰
If you’re looking for a fun, handheld dessert that combines two classic favorites—banana pudding and cheesecake—look no further than these Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones. Creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling meets sweet banana pudding, all served inside a crunchy cone rimmed with crushed vanilla wafers. These cones are perfect for parties, birthdays, summer gatherings, or anytime you want a no-bake dessert that wows!
In this guide, we’ll cover the full recipe, pro chef tips, nutrition insights, health and safety considerations, serving suggestions, FAQs, and related dessert inspirations. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
For the Cones
- 10–12 waffle cones or sugar cones
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 2 tbsp melted butter
For Garnish
- Sliced bananas
- Whipped cream
- Crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- Caramel drizzle (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
Prepare the pudding: In another bowl, whisk banana pudding mix with cold milk until thickened (2–3 minutes).
Combine: Gently fold the prepared pudding into the cream cheese mixture until smooth. Refrigerate while preparing cones.
2. Prepare the Cones
Make the coating: Mix crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter until coated.
Coat the cones: Dip the top edges of cones into butter, then roll in crushed cookies to create a cookie rim. Let set for a few minutes.
3. Assemble the Cones
Fill: Pipe or spoon the cheesecake filling into the cones generously.
Garnish: Top with sliced bananas, whipped cream, crushed wafers, and caramel drizzle if desired.
Chef Insights & Pro Tips 👨🍳
Chef Bobby Flay suggests freezing the cones for 15 minutes before filling so they stay crunchy longer.
Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman) recommends adding a touch of banana extract to the filling for a stronger banana flavor.
Gordon Ramsay would say, “Don’t overwhip the cream—soft peaks are perfect for folding into the cheesecake base.”
Ina Garten recommends serving these in a cone holder or small cups for a neat, elegant presentation at parties.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
These cones are a decadent treat, but they do provide some calcium from dairy and potassium from bananas. Here’s a general nutrition breakdown per cone (based on 12 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount (per cone) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Potassium | 8% DV |
Health & Safety Tips ✅
- Use ripe but firm bananas for best taste and presentation.
- Prepare cones just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Store cheesecake filling separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If making ahead, fill cones at the last minute to avoid sogginess.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve in decorative cone stands for parties.
- Dip cone rims in chocolate before rolling in cookie crumbs for extra indulgence.
- Swap caramel drizzle for chocolate sauce or Nutella swirl.
- Make mini cones for bite-sized desserts at events.
FAQs About Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones
1. Can I make this without cones?
Yes! Serve in small dessert cups layered with crushed cookies for a parfait-style treat.
2. Can I use homemade banana pudding?
Absolutely. Homemade pudding will elevate the flavor even more.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, fill cones just before serving.
4. Can I use sugar cones instead of waffle cones?
Yes, either works—waffle cones provide a larger filling space.
5. Can I freeze them?
The filling can be frozen, but cones may soften once thawed. Best served fresh.
6. How do I prevent cones from getting soggy?
Brush the inside with melted chocolate to create a moisture barrier.
7. Can I substitute another pudding flavor?
Yes! Vanilla, chocolate, or coconut pudding all work beautifully.
8. How long does the filling last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
9. Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
Yes, but the texture will be lighter and sweeter.
10. Are these kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the cone presentation and creamy filling.
Related Dessert Recipes & Resources
Love no-bake desserts? Check out these guides on Fresh Toner Hunger:
Final Thoughts
These Banana Pudding Cheesecake Cones are the ultimate mashup of creamy, crunchy, and sweet. Easy to make, fun to serve, and guaranteed to impress, they’re perfect for parties, picnics, or any occasion that calls for a special treat. 🍌✨ Try them once, and they’ll become a family favorite for years to come!
