Description
This rich and creamy Banana Caramel Nut Cheesecake combines the smooth texture of classic cheesecake with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the indulgent flavor of caramel sauce. Enhanced with crunchy pecans or walnuts, this dessert is perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
For Serving (Optional)
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the mashed bananas and brown sugar, beating until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for even texture. Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt until batter is smooth.
- Add nuts and assemble: Gently fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling. Pour the filling evenly over the baked crust in the springform pan.
- Add caramel swirl: Drizzle 1/2 cup caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cheesecake filling. Using a knife, swirl the caramel gently into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Afterward, remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill before serving: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set and enhance flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top and add whipped cream if desired for extra indulgence.
Notes
- You can use either walnuts or pecans based on your preference for nut flavor and texture.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth, creamy filling without lumps.
- For a stronger banana flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon banana extract to the filling mixture.
