Ingredients

For the Base:

• 300g (10.5 oz) cookies (digestive, graham crackers, or similar)
• 120g (4.2 oz) melted butter
• 100g (3.5 oz) Nutella
• 30g (1.05 oz) condensed milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 60g (2.1 oz) ricotta cheese or cream cheese
• 2 bananas, sliced

For the Cream Layer:

• 60g (2.1 oz) ricotta cheese or cream cheese
• 50g (1.75 oz) powdered sugar
• 40g (1.4 oz) coconut flakes
• 120ml (1/2 cup) whipped cream

For the Topping:

• 100g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate
• 100g (3.5 oz) white chocolate

Prep Time

• 20 minutes

Chilling Time

• 2 hours

Total Time

• 2 hours 20 minutes

Servings

• 8-10 servings

Calories per Serving

• Approx. 340 kcal

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Base:
   • Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, melted butter, Nutella, and condensed milk (if using). Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
   • Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square pan to form an even base. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cream Layer:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the ricotta cheese or cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth.
   • Gently fold in the coconut flakes and whipped cream until well combined.
   • Spread half of the cream mixture over the chilled cookie base, smoothing it out with a spatula.
3. Add the Banana Layer:
   • Arrange the banana slices evenly over the cream layer, ensuring full coverage.
4. Assemble the Layers:
   • Spread the remaining cream mixture over the banana layer, creating a smooth surface.
   • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
   • Melt the dark chocolate and white chocolate in separate bowls using a microwave or double boiler. Stir until smooth.
   • Drizzle the melted chocolates over the top of the dessert in a decorative pattern, or spread them in separate layers for a marbled effect.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the assembled dessert for another hour, or until firm.
   • Cut into bars and serve chilled.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

No-bake desserts like this one are cherished because they’re easy, quick, and require minimal kitchen equipment. This recipe’s layered composition—crunchy base, creamy filling, fruity sweetness, and chocolate topping—is a sensory delight that appeals to both kids and adults. The Nutella and banana combination is a classic that never goes out of style, while the addition of coconut adds a tropical twist.

It’s a versatile recipe that you can modify based on preferences or dietary restrictions. Swap the ricotta for mascarpone, use almond butter instead of Nutella, or add berries for extra flavor. The recipe’s adaptability ensures it will remain a favorite across generations.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 120 mg

Tips for Success

1. Use Ripe Bananas: The natural sweetness and soft texture of ripe bananas complement the creamy filling and add a burst of flavor.
2. Chill Thoroughly: Proper chilling ensures the layers set firmly and are easy to slice.
3. Even Layers: Use an offset spatula for smooth, even layers that look professional when sliced.
4. Decorate Creatively: Experiment with chocolate designs for the topping. Use a fork to swirl the dark and white chocolates together for a marbled effect.
5. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cream mixture before assembling and adjust the powdered sugar to your preferred sweetness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making a day in advance. Simply prepare, chill, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely. These bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

3. Can I substitute Nutella?
If you don’t have Nutella, you can use another hazelnut spread, peanut butter, or even melted chocolate as a substitute.

4. What if I don’t like coconut?
You can omit the coconut flakes from the cream layer or replace them with finely chopped nuts for texture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
• Freezing: To freeze, cut the bars into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.

Conclusion

Decadent No-Bake Banana Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They’re rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent, yet incredibly simple to prepare. This recipe offers the best of all worlds: a crispy cookie base, a smooth and tangy cream layer, the sweetness of bananas, and the decadence of Nutella and chocolate.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or just treating yourself to something special, these bars are guaranteed to impress. Their timeless appeal lies in their balance of flavors and textures, as well as their ability to be customized to suit your personal preferences. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire, loved by kids and adults alike.