Name: Banana Nut Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted; 24 oz cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts); Fresh banana slices (for garnish); Whole nuts (for garnish); Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

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Banana Nut Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that blends the creamy richness of cheesecake with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of toasted nuts. Set atop a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with banana slices and whole nuts, it’s both visually stunning and utterly indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake is the perfect fusion of flavor and texture. The smooth banana-infused filling is complemented by the satisfying bite of almonds or pecans, and the fresh banana topping adds a refreshing finish. It’s ideal for special occasions, potlucks, or any time you crave a decadent banana dessert.

Ingredients

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

Graham cracker crumbs
Unsalted butter, melted
Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Ripe bananas, mashed
Sour cream
Vanilla extract
Chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
Fresh banana slices (for garnish)
Whole nuts (for garnish)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in mashed bananas, sour cream, and vanilla.
Fold in chopped nuts and pour the filling into the prepared crust.
Bake for 55–65 minutes until the center is set. Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Before serving, top with banana slices and whole nuts. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 10–12.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Cooling + chilling time: 5 hours
Total time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Caramel Banana Nut Cheesecake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Nut-Free Version: Omit nuts if desired or replace with crushed graham topping.
Chocolate Swirl: Add melted chocolate to part of the filling for a marble effect.
Mini Cheesecakes: Make in muffin tins for single-serving desserts.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For freezing, wrap tightly in plastic and foil and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Do not reheat.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, vanilla wafer or digestive biscuit crumbs also work well.

Can I make this without sour cream?

Yes, substitute with Greek yogurt for a similar texture.

What bananas are best?

Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.

Can I use a hand mixer?

Yes, ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, cheesecake freezes very well when properly wrapped.

How do I prevent cracks?

Avoid overmixing and let the cake cool gradually in the oven.

Can I use a water bath?

Yes, it helps with even baking and prevents cracking.

What nuts work best?

Pecans, almonds, or walnuts all add excellent texture.

Can I add whipped cream on top?

Yes, it’s a delicious and decorative addition.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Banana Nut Cheesecake is an indulgent dessert that offers layers of texture and flavor in every slice. With its creamy banana filling, nutty crunch, and beautiful garnish, it’s a memorable treat worthy of any dessert table.

Banana Nut Cheesecake

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Banana Nut Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert combining ripe bananas, toasted nuts, and a smooth cheesecake filling on a graham cracker crust, finished with banana slices and whole nuts for an elegant presentation.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in mashed bananas, sour cream, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Fold in chopped nuts.
Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly wobbly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Before serving, top with banana slices, whole nuts, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.