Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).

Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, melted butter, and sugar until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

Create the Banana Pudding Layer: Whisk banana pudding mix with cold milk until thick. Spread it gently over the cheesecake layer. Arrange banana slices on top of the pudding.

Bake: Bake the layered dessert for 30-35 minutes until the cheesecake is set. Let it cool completely at room temperature.

Chill and Set: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure the layers set firmly.

Serve: Slice into squares and garnish with whipped cream, crushed wafers, or banana slices as desired.