Description
This Banana Caramel Nut Cheesecake is a luscious dessert combining a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy banana-infused cheesecake filling, and a rich caramel topping garnished with sliced bananas and roasted peanuts for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
For Topping:
- 3/4 cup caramel sauce
- Sliced bananas (for garnish)
- Whole peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until well combined to form a crumbly mixture.
- Press the Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a firm and even layer to serve as the cheesecake foundation.
- Chill the Crust: Place the pan with the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the cheesecake filling to help it set firmly.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy to ensure no lumps remain.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a silky batter.
- Mix Flavorings: Blend in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas thoroughly to infuse the batter with flavor and moisture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the prepared cheesecake batter over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
- Add Peanuts: Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts evenly over the batter’s surface to add a crunchy texture.
- Bake: Place the springform pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set fully and enhance flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, and decorate with sliced bananas and whole peanuts for an appealing presentation and extra taste.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for best mixing results.
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and smooth texture.
- Do not overbake; the center should be slightly jiggly to avoid dryness.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight improves texture and flavor.
- To prevent cracking, avoid rapid temperature changes when cooling.
- For a nut-free version, omit the peanuts or substitute with toasted coconut flakes.
