It is certain that this banana foster cheesecake will impress you. In this dessert, the rich creaminess of a perfectly baked cheesecake meets the warm, caramel-kissed decadence of bananas foster. You will be delighted by the fusion of flavors and textures of this cheesecake—it is comforting and luxurious at the same time. We are going to layer this velvety cheesecake with a topping of bananas caramelized in butter, brown sugar, and a splash of rum, creating a dessert worthy of a star moment at your table.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 200 gm graham crackers or digestive biscuits, crushed
- 100 gm unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the cheesecake filling:
- 500 gm cream cheese, softened
- 200 gm granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 120 ml heavy cream
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the banana foster topping:
- 50 gm unsalted butter
- 100 gm brown sugar
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 tbsp rum
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Process
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Mix crushed biscuits, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan, forming an even layer.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla, heavy cream, and cinnamon until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides (water bath).
- Bake at 175°C for 55–60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour.
- Refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Add banana slices and cook until coated and slightly caramelized.
- Pour in rum and vanilla, stirring to combine. Add a pinch of salt for balance.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before spooning over the chilled cheesecake.
Tips and Tricks
- Use ripe but firm bananas for the topping to ensure they hold their shape.
- If you prefer an alcohol-free version, substitute rum with a teaspoon of rum extract or skip it entirely.
- For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle the cheesecake with caramel sauce before serving.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for a luxurious finish.
- Always bake the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain even temperature and prevent cracking. Wrapping the bottom of the pan with aluminum foil ensures no water seeps in.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother batter, avoiding lumps in your cheesecake.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake overnight to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully. This also ensures a firm texture.
- For a beautiful presentation, layer some of the caramelized bananas in the center and around the edges, leaving a slight rim to highlight the cheesecake base.
- If you want neat, professional-looking slices, freeze the cheesecake for 20–30 minutes before cutting. Use a warm knife (dip in hot water and wipe dry) for smooth, clean cuts.
Serving this cheesecake is a ritual of love. Bring it out of the fridge and let it rest for a few moments so the flavors come alive. Slice it with care, using a warm knife to ensure each piece is as perfect as the last. Place the slice on a beautiful plate, spoon the warm banana foster topping over it, and let it cascade like molten gold.A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a dollop of mascarpone on top will elevate the overall cheesecake experience. Pair this item with a robust Italian espresso to make the moment unforgettable.
This cheesecake deserves proper care to keep its magic intact. Wrap it snugly in parchment paper, then cover it with foil to lock in the freshness. Store it in the fridge, where it will stay delightful for up to five days. If you plan to save a slice for later, freeze it individually, wrapped with love in foil and store in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw gently in the fridge overnight. Even reheated, the topping will bring back that warm, caramel-kissed aroma that feels like home.
Moreover, for those aspiring to bake the perfect cheesecake, Baking Bliss- Tips To Perfect Your Cheesecake with Cream Cheese provides invaluable insights into using cream cheese effectively. This essential ingredient is crucial not only for achieving that creamy, luscious consistency but also for enhancing the overall flavor profile of your desserts.