Caramel Banana Crunch Cheesecake
A heavenly dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and a delightful crunch topped with rich caramel.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs Foundation of the cheesecake providing sweetness.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar Sweetens the crust.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted Binds the crumbs together.
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened Main ingredient for the cheesecake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- 3 large eggs Provides structure.
- 1 cup sour cream Adds tanginess.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed Gives natural sweetness.
Topping
- ½ cup caramel sauce Adds flavor and richness.
- 1 cup cornflake cereal, crushed Provides delightful crunch.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Binds the crushed cornflakes.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until all crumbs are coated, resembling wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan for the crust and bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
Cheesecake Mixture
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add 1 cup of sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Introduce eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in sour cream and mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
Baking
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and bake for 55-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an hour to cool gradually.
Topping
- Mix crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
- Spread the cornflake mixture over the cooled cheesecake.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Notes
Make sure to soften cream cheese thoroughly before mixing to prevent lumps. Avoid over-beating the eggs and allow enough cooling and chilling time for the cheesecake.