Description
Sweet Southern charm meets creamy indulgence in this Caramel Banana Pudding Cheesecake, blending classic comfort with elegant dessert sophistication. Layers of velvety cheesecake, ripe bananas, and rich caramel create a dessert that draws you into a world of pure Southern delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter (melted)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1 package (3.4 ounces or 96 grams) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Sliced bananas
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 325°F and coat a 9-inch springform pan with grease to ensure easy removal.
- Create the graham cracker foundation by blending crumbs, sugar, and melted butter into a compact base. Press firmly into the pan’s bottom and refrigerate while crafting the filling.
- Whip cream cheese and granulated sugar until velvety smooth, incorporating eggs individually to maintain a silky texture. Introduce vanilla extract, then gently fold in mashed bananas and caramel sauce for consistent distribution.
- Transfer the creamy cheesecake mixture onto the chilled crust, using a spatula to achieve an even, pristine surface.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Look for a set center and slightly golden edges as indicators of perfect doneness.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight to achieve optimal firmness and flavor melding.
- Craft the banana pudding layer by vigorously whisking instant pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. Incorporate whipped cream with a delicate folding technique.
- Carefully spread the banana pudding mixture across the chilled cheesecake, creating a smooth, inviting layer.
- Elevate the presentation by adorning the dessert with fresh banana slices, an elegant caramel sauce drizzle, and decorative whipped cream dollops just before serving.
Notes
- Select ripe, spotty bananas for maximum sweetness and intense banana flavor in your cheesecake.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Use a water bath during baking to prevent cracks and create a silky, even cheesecake surface.
- For gluten-free option, replace graham cracker crust with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg