Introduction
Creating a luscious cheesecake is a delightful endeavor, especially when it is infused with the rich flavors of banana and vanilla. This recipe combines a buttery vanilla wafer crust with a creamy cheesecake filling, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Follow the simple steps to impress your family and friends with this delectable treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
– 40-50 vanilla wafer cookies (150-188 grams)
– ¼ cup brown sugar (53 grams)
– ½ cup salted butter, melted (113 grams or 1 stick)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (454 grams or 2 bricks)
– ½ cup powdered sugar (57 grams)
– 3.4 ounces instant banana pudding mix (96 grams or 1 box)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
– 1 cup sour cream, room temperature (227 grams)
– 2 cups whipped topping, thawed if frozen (120 grams), plus more for topping
– 2 bananas, sliced and divided
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
5 hours (chilling time)
Total Time
5 hours and 20 minutes
Yield
Serves 10-12 slices
Enjoy the creamy goodness of this banana cheesecake, beautifully assembled and ready to be the star of your dessert table.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
– Using a food processor, pulse the vanilla wafer cookies for 30 seconds or until well crushed.
– Add the brown sugar and melted butter; pulse again until thoroughly combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
– Press the cookie mixture into the bottom and about a quarter up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan, using slightly damp fingers for ease.
– Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer while preparing the cheesecake filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
– In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until well combined and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
– Add the instant banana pudding mix, vanilla extract, and sour cream; beat well until the mixture is thick and creamy, about 2 minutes.
– Gently fold in the whipped topping using a rubber spatula until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
– Remove the springform pan from the freezer.
– Spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the crust layer.
– Arrange slices from one banana over the cheesecake layer in a circular pattern until covered.
– Pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the banana slices and smooth the top with a spatula or icing knife.
– Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set.
Decorate and Serve:
– Before serving, decorate the cheesecake with additional whipped topping.
– Optionally, use a piping bag with a star-shaped tip to pipe small flowers around the rim of the cheesecake.
– Place alternating slices of the remaining banana and whole vanilla wafer cookies on the edge of each piped flower.
– Gently run a knife along the inside edge of the springform pan before removing the outer ring.
– Slice and serve the cheesecake chilled.
Notes
Storage:
– Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
Freezing:
– Cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze it without toppings and wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Banana Ripeness:
– For better flavor, use ripe bananas. They should have a few brown spots for optimal sweetness.
Whipped Topping:
– Ensure the whipped topping is fully thawed and at room temperature for easier mixing and folding into the cheesecake filling.
Cook techniques
Crushing Cookies
Using a food processor, pulse the vanilla wafer cookies until they resemble fine crumbs, ensuring an even texture for the crust.
Mixing Ingredients
Incorporate ingredients by thoroughly combining them with a hand mixer or rubber spatula to achieve a creamy and fluffy consistency without lumps.
Pressing the Crust
Firmly press the cookie mixture into the bottom and sides of the springform pan using slightly damp fingers to help prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
Folding in Whipped Topping
Gently fold the whipped topping into the cheesecake mixture, using a rubber spatula to maintain the airy texture and prevent deflation.
Layering the Cheesecake
Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture in layers, ensuring even distribution and allowing for banana slices to be incorporated for added flavor.
Setting the Cheesecake
Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 5 hours or overnight, which allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld.
Decorating
Use a piping bag to create decorative elements with whipped topping and arrange banana slices and vanilla wafer cookies for an appealing presentation.
Removing from the Pan
Run a knife along the inside edge of the springform pan before releasing the outer ring, to ensure a clean removal without damaging the cheesecake.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute the vanilla wafers with other cookies such as graham crackers or chocolate cookies, depending on your flavor preference.
How can I tell when the cheesecake is set?
The cheesecake should be firm to the touch and slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up more as it cools in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can use plain yogurt or cream cheese as substitutes for sour cream for a similar texture and flavor in the cheesecake filling.
How long will the cheesecake last in the fridge?
The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days if covered properly to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
This delicious banana cheesecake, with its creamy filling and crunchy crust, is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that will delight your family and friends. The balance of sweet bananas and the richness of the cheesecake makes it a standout choice for any occasion.
Banana Cream Pie
Combine a buttery crust with a rich banana filling topped with whipped cream for a classic dessert.
Chocolate Banana Cheesecake
Incorporate cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling for a chocolate twist, and garnish with chocolate shavings.
Berry Banana Cheesecake
Add fresh mixed berries into the cheesecake filling for a fruity burst and a vibrant color contrast.
Pineapple Banana Cheesecake
Mix crushed pineapple into the filling for a tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas.
Nutty Banana Cheesecake
Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the crust and sprinkle them on top for added crunch and flavor.
Caramel Banana Cheesecake
Swirl caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling and drizzle on top before serving for a decadent touch.
