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Banana Bliss Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that blends the creamy richness of cheesecake with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. This combination creates a smooth, comforting treat that feels both indulgent and familiar, perfect for any occasion from casual family dinners to elegant parties. The delightful contrast between the silky filling and crumbly crust makes every bite satisfying and memorable.
I first made this cheesecake when I wanted to impress guests with something simple yet special and it quickly became a requested dessert at gatherings. It has a way of bringing smiles because of its creamy texture and sweet fruity notes.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: fresh and full fat is best for the creamiest cheesecake base
- Granulated Sugar: adds sweetness and helps to balance the tanginess of the filling
- Eggs: bind the mixture and create a smooth, firm texture when baked
- Ripe Bananas: naturally sweet and moist, they bring a fresh flavor and creamy texture
- Graham Cracker Crust: offers a crunchy and slightly sweet foundation for contrast
- Sour Cream: adds a subtle tang and silky smoothness to the cheesecake
- Vanilla Extract: enhances the flavor depth and aroma
- Fresh Lemon Juice: brightens and lifts the overall taste balancing the sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparing the Crust:
- Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter and sugar in a bowl until combined well. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. Let it cool fully to create a stable base.
- Mixing the Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add mashed ripe bananas, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract and lemon juice. Mix gently until everything is well combined but do not overmix to avoid cracks during baking.
- Baking the Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling evenly over the cooled crust. Bake in the preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 55 to 60 minutes. The edges should be set but the center still a little jiggly to ensure a creamy texture.
- Cooling and Serving:
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly and let the cheesecake cool inside for one hour. Remove from oven and bring to room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight before serving. Top with banana slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.
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Storage Tips
Store any leftover cheesecake tightly covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. For longer storage, wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices securely in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
- You can swap regular cream cheese for low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- Almond flour or oat flour mixed with melted butter can replace graham crackers to make the crust gluten-free
- Sweeteners such as honey or stevia work well instead of sugar if you prefer a healthier option
- Mascarpone or vegan cream cheese are good alternatives to give different flavor profiles if desired
Serving Suggestions
- Top with freshly sliced bananas, a drizzle of caramel sauce or dollops of whipped cream to enhance the presentation and flavor
- Pair with fresh berries or chocolate shavings for a festive touch
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to complement the richness of the cheesecake perfectly
Pro Tips
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter without lumps
- Do not overmix the filling once eggs are added because too much air can cause cracking during baking
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually inside the oven with the door cracked to prevent sudden temperature changes that can also cause cracks
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What kind of bananas work best?
Ripe bananas are ideal as they mash easily and bring natural sweetness that enhances the creamy filling.
- → How can I tell when the cheesecake is baked properly?
The edges should appear firm while the center remains slightly jiggly; it will set as it cools.
- → Are there alternatives to cream cheese?
You can try vegan cream cheese or mascarpone for a different texture and flavor profile.
- → How long should leftovers be refrigerated?
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to five days to maintain freshness.
- → Is freezing an option for this dessert?
Yes, freezing works well for up to two months if the cheesecake is tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.