Banana Cream Cheesecake

Short Description

Banana Cream Cheesecake is a luscious combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet bananas, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with whipped cream and fresh banana slices, this dessert is perfect for banana lovers and an indulgent treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the flavors of banana cream pie and cheesecake into one delicious dessert.
• Creamy, rich, and full of banana flavor.
• Perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or holidays.
• Make-ahead friendly and gets better as it chills.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham crackers (for the crust)
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Ripe bananas (mashed)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh banana slices (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
4. Add mashed bananas, eggs (one at a time), and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
7. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake.
9. Garnish with fresh banana slices before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours

Variations

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence.
• Use vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for the crust.
• Fold sliced bananas into the cheesecake batter for more banana texture.
• Top with crushed pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, wrap the cheesecake (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use green bananas for this recipe?

No, ripe bananas with brown spots provide the best sweetness and flavor for this cheesecake.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

3. Can I substitute cream cheese with mascarpone?

Yes, mascarpone can be used for a slightly sweeter and creamier texture.

4. How do I keep my cheesecake from cracking?

Bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water on the oven’s bottom rack to create steam. Avoid overmixing the batter.

5. Can I add banana slices inside the cheesecake?

Yes, but be aware that they may release moisture, slightly altering the texture.

6. Can I skip the whipped cream topping?

You can skip it or replace it with store-bought whipped topping for convenience.

7. How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?

Ensure the crust is firmly packed into the pan and chilled before adding the filling.

8. Can I make mini cheesecakes with this recipe?

Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners and adjust the baking time to 20–25 minutes.

9. What can I substitute for heavy cream in the topping?

You can use whipped topping or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

10. How do I cut neat slices of cheesecake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Banana Cream Cheesecake is a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s perfect for banana lovers. With its smooth filling, buttery crust, and whipped cream topping, this cheesecake is a true showstopper. Make it for your next celebration or when you’re craving a unique twist on classic banana cream pie!

Print