Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 ripe bananas, mashed
For the Banana Cream Topping:
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 banana, sliced (for garnish)
1 tbsp crushed graham crackers (for garnish)
Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
For the Crust:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon (if using) until combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s even and packed down.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Mix in the sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
Add Sour Cream and Heavy Cream: Add the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until combined.
Add Mashed Bananas: Finally, fold in the mashed bananas to the cheesecake filling. This will give your cheesecake a delicious banana flavor.
Pour into Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust and smooth out the top.
Bake the Cheesecake: Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in for another hour to cool slowly.
Chill: After removing from the oven, let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
For the Banana Cream Topping:
Make the Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is chilled and set, spread the whipped cream topping over the surface.
Garnish: Arrange the sliced banana on top and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for a little extra crunch. You can also add chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.
