Creating Banana Pudding Cheesecake is simple when you follow these essential steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Nilla wafers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Bake Crust: Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set aside to cool.
4. Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix.
5. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in sour cream and mashed bananas until fully combined.
6. Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set and just slightly jiggly.
8. Cool & Chill: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
9. Prepare Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until thickened. Stir in vanilla extract.
10. Add Pudding: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the pudding mixture over the top of the cheesecake.
11. Garnish: Decorate the top with sliced bananas, a dollop of whipped cream, and sprinkle with additional crushed Nilla wafers.

These steps will guide you to create an incredible Banana Pudding Cheesecake that will surely impress!