Banana Cream Cheesecake

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon (if using).
• Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon to pack it down.
• Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.

2. Prepare the cheesecake filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
• Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Add the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.
• Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.

3. Bake the cheesecake:

• Place the pan in the oven and bake at 325°F for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
• Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for an hour to avoid cracking.
• After it cools, place it in the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).

4. Prepare the banana cream layer:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Gently spread the banana cream over the chilled cheesecake.

5. Top the cheesecake:

• Once the banana cream layer is on, top the cheesecake with fresh whipped cream, sliced bananas, and a drizzle of caramel sauce (if using) for extra flavor and presentation.

6. Serve:

• Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled, making sure to get a little bit of the banana cream and cheesecake in every bite!

Tips:

• For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of banana liqueur to the banana cream layer for an extra kick.
• For a smoother texture: Blend the banana cream layer to remove any chunks, especially if you’re serving this to guests.
• Banana topping: To prevent the banana slices from browning, you can toss them in a little bit of lemon juice before placing them on the cheesecake.

This Banana Cream Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for banana lovers, blending the creamy texture of cheesecake with the smooth sweetness of banana cream! 🍌🍰

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