Description
This rich and creamy Banana Caramel Nut Cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth cream cheese filling, topped with fresh banana slices, luscious caramel sauce, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for a decadent dessert that pleases any crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Toppings
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the base of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Bake cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Place in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan—this ensures the cheesecake is perfectly baked but still creamy inside.
- Cool cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the oven door slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour. Afterward, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set fully.
- Add toppings and serve: Once chilled, top the cheesecake with the sliced ripe bananas. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce and sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans evenly over the top before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth batter.
- Do not overbake; slight jiggle in the center ensures a creamy texture.
- Chilling overnight improves flavor and texture.
- Use fresh bananas to avoid browning; add toppings just before serving.
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or replace with toasted coconut flakes.
