Bananas Foster Cheesecake

Bananas Foster Cheesecake is the dessert you never knew you needed in your life. Imagine that rich, creamy cheesecake combined with the nostalgic flavors of Bananas Foster—sweet caramelized bananas bathed in a warm, buttery, rum-infused sauce. Sounds delightful, right? Well, this recipe takes all those delicious elements and combines them into a stunning cheesecake that will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to bring a little joy to your day, this cheesecake is a perfect choice. It’s easy to make, and the combination of flavors is truly something special. Plus, when you serve it, get ready for compliments!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Bananas Foster Cheesecake
• Ingredients
• For the Graham Cracker Crust
• For the Banana Cheesecake
• For the Bananas Foster
• For the Cinnamon Whipped Cream
• Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust
• Ready the Oven and Parchment
• Mix Crust Ingredients
• Combine and Shape
• Bake the Crust
• Making the Banana Cheesecake
• Prepare the Water Bath
• Mix Cheesecake Ingredients
• Add Eggs and Bananas
• Bake the Cheesecake
• Preparing the Bananas Foster
• Initial Setup
• Make the Caramel
• Add Fruits and Whiskey
• Finalize the Caramel
• Making the Cinnamon Whipped Cream
• Mix the Cream
• Assemble the Cheesecake
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Desserts Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create something unforgettable together.

Why This Recipe Works

This Bananas Foster Cheesecake stands out for a few reasons. First, the blend of rich cream cheese and ripe bananas creates a unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist. These simple ingredients come together to form a deliciously creamy filling.

Next, using a water bath while baking is a game-changer. It keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents it from cracking, achieving a smooth texture. Nobody wants a dessert that looks droopy!

Finally, the addition of a whiskey-infused caramel sauce elevates this dessert to gourmet status. This finishing touch embodies the spirit of Bananas Foster, creating a delightful contrast between the sweet, creamy cheesecake and the warm caramel sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Bananas Foster Cheesecake

You’re in for a treat! This cheesecake is the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Each bite is so creamy and rich that it’s nearly impossible to resist.

Moreover, the nostalgic flavors of Bananas Foster merge beautifully with classic cheesecake. It satisfyingly meets both cravings and curiosity, especially for those who adore desserts.

And let’s not overlook the stunning presentation! Topped with caramelized bananas and whipped cream, this cheesecake becomes a centerpiece at gatherings, making it ideal for celebrations or just a fancy treat for yourself.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 18 sheets of graham crackers
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 10 tablespoons salted butter, melted

For the Banana Cheesecake

• 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 bananas)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Bananas Foster

• 1/2 cup salted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/3 cup whiskey
• 1 cup chopped prunes
• 3 bananas, sliced into chunks

For the Cinnamon Whipped Cream

• 1/2 cup heavy cream, cold
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of kosher salt
• Pecans for garnish

Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust

Ready the Oven and Parchment

To get started, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. This will keep the crust intact and ensure it releases easily after baking.

Mix Crust Ingredients

Grab your food processor, and pulse together graham crackers, sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt until they form uniform crumbs. This will be the base of your cheesecake.

Combine and Shape

Next, pour in the melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Then, press the crumbs firmly into the bottom and along the sides of the springform pan.

Bake the Crust

Pop it into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is set. Once baked, take it out and let it cool. After cooling, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) so it’s ready for the cheesecake.

Making the Banana Cheesecake

Prepare the Water Bath

While your crust cools, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. This water will create a steam bath during baking, which helps keep the cheesecake from cracking.

Mix Cheesecake Ingredients

In your stand mixer, combine cream cheese, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Beat them on low for about 3 minutes until the mixture is smooth. That creamy base is what makes this cheesecake so dreamy!

Add Eggs and Bananas

Add the eggs one at a time. Ensure you fully incorporate each egg before adding another. Next, fold in the mashed bananas, sour cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour this heavenly mixture into the cooled crust. Carefully place the cheesecake on the middle rack, and add boiling water to a pan on the bottom rack. This step is crucial for a smooth bake.

Bake for about 1 hour and 15-20 minutes, until the center wobbles slightly. After baking, turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for an hour. Then place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours (or longer if time allows)—this will help it truly set.

Preparing the Bananas Foster

Initial Setup

While the cheesecake cools, fill a large bowl with ice water, and have a heat-safe bowl ready for your caramel sauce.

Make the Caramel

In a medium nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until they dissolve and combine. This sweetness is the heart of Bananas Foster!

Add Fruits and Whiskey

Stir in the chopped prunes and banana chunks, cooking for another 2 minutes until everything is warm and fragrant. Now, here comes the fun part—carefully pour in the whiskey and ignite to flambé! Just let the flames subside naturally.

Finalize the Caramel

After flambéing, remove the bananas, and cook that luscious mixture for another 3-5 minutes until it bubbles nicely. Pour it into the heat-safe bowl and let it cool.

Making the Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Mix the Cream

To whip up the dreamiest topping, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt in a mixing bowl, and whisk until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. This fluffy cream will add a perfect touch.

Assemble the Cheesecake

Now, the moment we’ve been waiting for! Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator, pour the cooled caramel sauce on top, then layer the banana and prune mixture over it. Finally, garnish with pecans and dollop or pipe your whipped cream on top.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this dessert, consider adding a drizzle of extra caramel or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor. You could even pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make it extra decadent!

Tips for Success

To ensure the best texture, remember to have all your ingredients at room temperature. Using a water bath also prevents cracks, allowing for a smoother and more enjoyable cheesecake.

Variations

Feel like mixing things up? You can substitute rum for whiskey for a different flavor experience. Or if chocolate is your passion, top it with a layer of chocolate ganache for a delightful chocolate banana fusion.

Storage Tips

Any leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slice and wrap pieces in plastic. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Pairing Ideas

For a lovely end to a meal, pair this cheesecake with coffee or espresso—both work beautifully together. Alternatively, a light dessert wine can complement the rich flavors of the cheesecake perfectly.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

2. What can I use instead of whiskey?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, try substituting it with vanilla extract or a non-alcoholic alternative to achieve a similar flavor.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
The water bath creates steam, keeping the temperature even and moist throughout the baking process, which helps prevent cracks.

4. Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
You bet! Almonds or walnuts can make excellent substitutes, offering different flavors and textures.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version of this dessert.

Creating Bananas Foster Cheesecake provides a luscious dessert experience that beautifully merges familiarity with new excitement. Its creamy texture, flavor complexity, and stunning appearance will surely make it the star of any event or a comforting treat for your evening. Enjoy every scrumptious bite, knowing you made something truly special!

More Easy Desserts Recipes:

• Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
• Watermelon Sugar Cookies
• Filipino Mango Float
• Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

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