The Strawberry Banana Delight Cheesecake is a fusion of fruity sweetness and creamy indulgence, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. A buttery graham cracker crust serves as the base for this delightful treat, which is topped with a rich and creamy cheesecake filling infused with fresh bananas and strawberries. The cheesecake is then finished with a whipped cream topping and garnished with more fresh fruit, creating a dessert that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. It’s perfect for a family gathering, special event, or simply indulging your sweet tooth!
INGREDIENTS
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1½ cups, creates the buttery crust
- Sugar: ¼ cup for crust, 1 cup for filling, sweetens the cheesecake
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup melted, holds the crust together
- Cream cheese: 3 (8 oz) packages softened, the base of the creamy filling
- Sour cream: ½ cup, adds tanginess and smoothness to the cheesecake
- Eggs: 3 large, helps bind the filling
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp, adds flavor to the cheesecake
- Mashed bananas: ½ cup, adds sweetness and flavor to the filling
- Diced strawberries: ½ cup, provides fruity flavor in every bite
- Whipped cream: 1 cup for topping
- Fresh strawberries and bananas: For garnish, makes the dessert beautiful and flavorful
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the sour cream, vanilla, and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Step 3:
- Fold in the mashed bananas and diced strawberries. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Step 4:
- Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven with the door slightly open.
- Step 5:
- Once fully cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Step 6:
- Before serving, top the cheesecake with whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and banana slices.
Serving and Storage Tips
- For best results, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set. Garnish with fresh fruit just before serving for the best presentation.
- Leftover cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw them in the refrigerator when ready to serve.
Helpful Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake batter.
- Use ripe bananas and fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in the cheesecake filling.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten suggests using a water bath to bake cheesecakes to prevent cracks. Simply wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.