If you adore creamy, dreamy desserts with a burst of fresh fruit flavors, you are going to fall head over heels with this Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe. This luscious cheesecake combines the smooth richness of cream cheese with the natural sweetness and bright notes of ripe bananas and juicy strawberries, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a slice of heaven that’s both elegant and homey, perfect for celebrations or a special treat to brighten your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to nailing this Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s the buttery crust providing a sturdy base, the cream cheese delivering that signature velvety texture, or the fresh fruits adding freshness and color.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a crisp, subtle-sweet crust that perfectly balances the creamy filling.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed into the crust for richness and binding.
- Ripe bananas: Mashed to add natural sweetness and a smooth, fruity undertone.
- Lemon juice: Keeps the bananas vibrant and adds a touch of brightness.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient, softened for a silky cheesecake base.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake just right without overpowering the fruit flavors.
- Eggs: Incorporated one at a time to create a dense yet tender texture.
- Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, inviting aroma.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the cheesecake set while keeping it creamy.
- Chopped strawberries: Stirred in for bursts of juicy freshness and vibrant color.
How to Make Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and thoroughly grease a 9-inch springform pan. This step is crucial to make sure your cheesecake doesn’t stick and comes out effortlessly once baked.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. Then press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This foundation will give your cheesecake the perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Banana Mixture
Mash the ripe bananas and stir in the lemon juice. This little addition prevents browning and adds a subtle tang that wakes up the banana flavor beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each to keep the texture flawless. Fold in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour to enrich the batter and ensure the perfect rise.
Step 5: Add the Bananas and Strawberries
Gently fold your banana mixture and chopped strawberries into the cream cheese filling. This step creates the signature look and flavor of the Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe, mixing creamy with fruity in every bite.
Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for about 60-70 minutes until the center is nearly set but still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for an additional hour to cool gradually, preventing cracks and keeping the texture dense yet delicate.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let all the flavors meld and the texture firm up perfectly.
How to Serve Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your cheesecake with fresh strawberry slices and a few banana chips for added texture and a pop of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate or strawberry sauce can elevate its beauty and flavor even more.
Side Dishes
Serve this cheesecake alongside fresh berries or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement its richness. For an extra touch, a cup of strong coffee or a glass of sparkling dessert wine pairs wonderfully with this vibrant dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual mini cheesecakes in mason jars layered with extra strawberries or banana slices. Another fun option is to make a parfait by layering pieces of the cheesecake with whipped cream and fruit for a playful and casual presentation that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days—perfect for savoring a slice (or two) over several days.
Freezing
This Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When stored properly, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing its wonderful texture and taste.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy frozen cheesecake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For the best experience, serve it chilled or bring it to room temperature for 15-20 minutes to enhance its creamy texture and flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the cheesecake.
What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?
You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative with a similar tangy effect, which works beautifully in the filling.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Slow baking and gradual cooling are key. Baking at a moderate temperature and letting the cheesecake cool inside the oven with the door closed helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture silky.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham or cookie crumbs, and confirm your vanilla extract and other ingredients are gluten-free to keep it safe and delicious.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
Use bananas that are fully ripe with brown speckles—they are sweeter and mash easily, giving the cheesecake the best natural flavor and creamy consistency.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe; it’s a warm hug in dessert form and an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite of many and why it earns a permanent spot in your recipe collection. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this exquisite blend of flavors and textures—it’s worth every delicious bite.
Print
Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delightful Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake combines creamy, smooth cream cheese filling with fresh bananas and strawberries for a fruity twist on a classic dessert. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious filling baked to perfection, this cheesecake is perfect for any occasion and serves 12 people.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chopped strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and thoroughly grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the greased pan to form an even crust layer. Set aside.
- Prepare the Banana Mixture: In a separate bowl, mash the bananas and mix with lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance flavor. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour until everything is well incorporated.
- Add the Bananas and Strawberries: Gently fold in the mashed banana mixture and chopped strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 60-70 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for an additional hour to cool slowly.
- Cool and Set: After the hour in the oven, remove the cheesecake and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled, optionally drizzling with chocolate or strawberry sauce before serving.
Notes
- Use a springform pan to easily remove the cheesecake without damaging it.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; it should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- For extra flavor, garnish with additional fresh strawberries before serving.
