Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

Crush the Nilla wafers in a food processor or blender until finely ground.

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbs with the sugar and stir to blend.

Add melted butter and mix until crumbs are evenly moistened.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan in an even layer.

Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly. Keep oven at 325°F.

Prepare the Filling

Bring a large pot of water to a boil—this will be used for the water bath.

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese on low-medium speed for 1–2 minutes until smooth.

Add the mashed bananas and sour cream. Mix until fully combined, scraping the bowl as needed.

Add the granulated sugar, dry pudding mix (do not prepare it), and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Gently mix them into the cheesecake batter on low speed until just combined.

Fold the batter with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Assemble and Bake

Wrap the springform pan tightly in 2–3 layers of aluminum foil. Place it inside an oven bag and fold the sides down (this prevents water leakage).

Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust and smooth the top.

Place the foil-wrapped pan inside a large roasting pan. Pour the boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches 1 inch up the side of the cheesecake pan.

Carefully place the roasting pan in the oven.

Bake for 70–80 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Chill and Garnish

After the hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and from the water bath. Let cool completely on a wire rack.

Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for 5–6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.

When ready to serve, run a knife around the edge of the pan, release the springform, and remove the sides.

Garnish with whipped cream, banana slices, and Nilla wafers as desired.