Caramel Banana Crunch Cheesecake
A rich and creamy cheesecake featuring ripe bananas and a crunchy cornflake topping drizzled with caramel sauce, perfect for celebrations or quiet evenings at home.
Ingredients
Crust ingredients
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs For the crust.
- 0.25 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the crust.
- 0.5 cups melted unsalted butter Binds the crust together.
Filling ingredients
- 24 oz softened cream cheese (3 packages of 8 oz each) Provides creaminess.
- 1 cup granulated sugar For sweetening the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth to the flavor.
- 3 large eggs Gives structure to the cheesecake.
- 1 cup sour cream Enhances creaminess.
- 2 ripe mashed bananas Provides natural sweetness.
- 0.5 cups caramel sauce For drizzling over the cheesecake.
Topping ingredients
- 1 cup crushed cornflake cereal Adds a crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter To mix with cornflakes.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar and the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Slowly incorporate the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream and mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top.
Baking
- Bake the cheesecake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an hour to cool gradually.
Topping
- While the cheesecake cools, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter in a small bowl.
- Spread the cornflake mixture evenly on top of the cooled cheesecake.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
Chilling
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, use light cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Can also experiment with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries.