Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Banana Topping:
- 2-3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly.
- Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the sugar and beat until combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, mashed banana, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- After 1 hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
4. Prepare the Banana Topping:
- In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced bananas and sugar. Stir gently for 2-3 minutes until the bananas soften and the sugar dissolves, creating a caramelized glaze.
- Let the banana topping cool to room temperature before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.
5. Serve:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, top it with the banana topping just before serving. You can also add a few extra banana slices if you like.
Tips:
- If you prefer a more intense banana flavor, you can add more mashed bananas to the cheesecake filling.
- For a decorative touch, you can also drizzle some caramel sauce or chocolate ganache over the banana topping.
- To ensure the cheesecake doesn’t crack, try using a water bath (placing the springform pan inside a larger pan filled with water) while baking.
Enjoy your creamy and decadent Banana Cheesecake!