Description
Looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the nostalgic flavor of banana cream pie? This Best Banana Cream Cheesecake is a luscious and elegant bake that’s perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or when you just want something indulgent. With a buttery graham crust, rich banana-infused filling, and fresh whipped cream topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
24 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup banana puree (about 2 ripe bananas)
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
3 large eggs
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
1 banana, sliced (for garnish)
1 tablespoon brown sugar or crushed graham crackers (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom with aluminum foil to prepare for a water bath.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the pan base and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well. Blend in banana puree and vanilla extract.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Stir in heavy cream gently without overmixing.
5. Pour filling over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Fill with hot water halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 60–70 minutes until edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour.
7. Remove from oven and water bath. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
8. Before serving, top with whipped cream, banana slices, and a sprinkle of brown sugar or extra crumbs. Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.
Notes
Use ripe bananas. The darker and spottier, the better—they bring out a natural sweetness and flavor that under-ripe bananas just can’t match.
Prevent cracks. Don’t skip the water bath and slow oven cool-down—it helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents splitting.
Decorate right before serving. Add whipped cream and banana slices just before presentation to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 115mg