Easy Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cheesecake 🍌🥜✨
A Dreamy Combination of Flavors! This Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for peanut butter lovers. With a creamy peanut butter filling, a buttery crust, and topped with bananas, caramel, and nuts, it’s a show-stopping treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the Filling:
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
For the Toppings:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- ½ cup chopped peanuts
- ¼ cup chopped almonds
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat peanut butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream, blending until smooth.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour.
4. Chill the Cheesecake:
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
5. Add Toppings and Serve:
- Before serving, arrange sliced bananas on top of the cheesecake.
- Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and almonds for a crunchy finish.
Tips for a Perfect Peanut Butter Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and peanut butter are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid cracks.
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil and use a water bath while baking.
- Chill Overnight: Letting the cheesecake rest overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
FAQs About Peanut Butter Cheesecake
Q: Can I make this cheesecake without baking?
A: While this recipe is baked, you can adapt it by using a no-bake cheesecake mix with gelatin and skipping the eggs.
Q: Can I substitute the bananas?
A: Yes, you can use strawberries or other fruits for a twist on the toppings.
Q: How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
A: Use a water bath, avoid overmixing the batter, and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Issue: Cheesecake cracks on top.
Solution: Ensure even baking with a water bath and avoid sudden temperature changes.
Issue: The crust crumbles when sliced.
Solution: Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan and chill it before adding the filling.
Issue: Cheesecake is too soft.
Solution: Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Don’t miss interesting posts on Famousbio