02/05/2025
Banana Cream Cheesecake with Lightened Ingredients 🍌🍰
Experience a creamy dream with this Banana Cream Cheesecake that brings together the rich flavors of banana and cheesecake, minus the guilt!
Ingredients:
- 3 (8 oz) packages softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Sliced bananas and crushed graham crackers (optional garnish)
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Crust:** Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the 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 in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, then remove and let it cool.
2. **Make the Cheesecake Filling:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it's smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before adding the next. Then, mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas until the mixture is homogeneous.
3. **Bake the Cheesecake:** Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top. For a water bath to prevent cracks, place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water to the outer dish. Bake for about 60-70 minutes, until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the door ajar, letting the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Afterward, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. **Prepare the Topping:** In a clean bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
5. **Assemble and Serve:** Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the whipped cream over the top. If desired, garnish with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for added texture. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic dessert!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 400 per slice
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g
Time: Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 70 minutes