Description
This Banana Caramel Nut Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the sweetness of ripe bananas and rich caramel sauce, topped with crunchy nuts for a perfect texture contrast. Ideal for gatherings or a special treat, it’s a delightfully smooth and indulgent cake that pairs classic flavors with a luxurious finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for the filling)
Topping
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make Cheesecake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the sugar until the texture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Add Flavorings: Incorporate the vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Mix Bananas and Caramel: Stir the mashed ripe bananas along with half of the caramel sauce into the cream cheese mixture to infuse the batter with sweet banana and caramel flavor.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the prepared cheesecake mixture over the crust in the springform pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed but not browned.
- Cool Down: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature to prevent cracking.
- Add Toppings: Once cooled, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle with the chopped nuts for texture and extra flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let it firm up and develop its full flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
- For easier slicing, chill the cheesecake thoroughly.
- You can substitute nuts with your favorite type or omit if allergic.
- Store leftovers wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
