Ingredients
- 1½ cups crushed graham crackers
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 1 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Refrigerator for chilling
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, let’s start with the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Stir until everything is well blended and resembles wet sand. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to pack it down tightly. This crust will provide a delicious, crunchy base for all that creamy goodness to come! Now, pop this into the fridge to set while we make the cheesecake batter. (See the next page below to continue steps…)