alted Caramel Banana Foster Cheesecake

Banana Foster Cheesecake with Salted Caramel is a luxurious dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, caramelized flavors of classic Bananas Foster. The smooth, velvety cheesecake sits on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a decadent bananas foster sauce and drizzled with salted caramel. This indulgent dessert is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when you want to impress your guests with an unforgettable treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent and Unique: Combines the elegance of cheesecake with the flavors of bananas foster.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Creamy cheesecake, caramelized bananas, and a hint of salt for contrast.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: Baked to perfection for a smooth and luscious consistency.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: Topped with caramelized bananas and a glossy caramel drizzle.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (240g) sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

For the Bananas Foster Topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup (60ml) dark rum (optional)
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (60ml) water
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Directions

1. Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan and slightly up the sides.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
3. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and flour until well combined.
4. Mash the bananas and fold them into the batter.
5. Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a large roasting pan.
2. Fill the roasting pan with about 1 inch of hot water to create a water bath.
3. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
4. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
5. Remove from the oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

4. Make the Bananas Foster Topping

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon, cooking until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the banana slices and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
4. If using rum, carefully pour it in and ignite with a long lighter or let it simmer for a few minutes to burn off the alcohol.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

5. Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water, stirring just until dissolved.
2. Cook without stirring until the sugar turns a deep amber color (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream (it will bubble up).
4. Stir in the butter and sea salt, mixing until smooth.
5. Let cool slightly before drizzling over the cheesecake.

6. Assemble and Serve

1. Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place on a serving plate.
2. Spoon the bananas foster topping over the cheesecake.
3. Drizzle with the salted caramel sauce.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Cooling Time: 5+ hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Twist: Add ½ cup melted dark chocolate to the cheesecake batter.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel topping.
• No-Alcohol Version: Omit the rum in the bananas foster topping.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Extra Spice: Add nutmeg or allspice for a bolder flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature before serving. The caramel can be warmed slightly for a smooth drizzle.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! Cheesecake tastes best when made a day in advance and chilled overnight.

Do I have to use a water bath?

A water bath helps prevent cracks, but you can skip it if you don’t mind minor cracking.

What kind of bananas should I use?

Use ripe bananas for the cheesecake batter and slightly firm bananas for the topping.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, but homemade salted caramel has a richer flavor.

What’s the best way to cut cheesecake cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for neat cuts.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes! Try a vanilla wafer or Biscoff cookie crust for a different flavor.

How can I make this without dairy?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and vegan butter.

Can I bake this in a regular cake pan?

A springform pan works best, but you can use a deep cake pan lined with parchment.

Can I skip the salted caramel?

Yes, but the salted caramel enhances the richness of the cheesecake.

How do I store leftover bananas foster topping?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Banana Foster Cheesecake with Salted Caramel is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, caramelized bananas, and a luscious caramel drizzle. With its impressive presentation and irresistible flavors, it’s the perfect treat for any celebration. Try this recipe today and enjoy every decadent bite!

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