Description
If there’s one dessert that can instantly brighten a day, it’s cheesecake—and this Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy is no exception! Creamy, fruity, and absolutely irresistible, this recipe combines the timeless allure of cheesecake with the classic pairing of bananas and strawberries. The result? A dessert that’s both sophisticated and approachable. Whether you’re hosting a party or indulging in a solo baking day, this cheesecake is the perfect treat!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
The Filling:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Banana slices (add just before serving to prevent browning)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the pan in a water bath to prevent cracking.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
4. Make the Strawberry Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens.
- Blend until smooth and set aside to cool.
5. Assemble:
- Spread the strawberry sauce over the cooled cheesecake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and banana slices.
- Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.