Banana Split Cheesecake takes the iconic flavors of a classic banana split and swirls them into a decadent cheesecake that’s sure to impress. This dessert layers rich, creamy cheesecake with slices of fresh bananas, drizzles of luscious strawberry and pineapple sauces, and a generous sprinkling of nuts and chocolate chips. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry, this cheesecake version of a banana split is both a visual treat and a delight to the palate. It’s perfect for celebrations or as a special treat for any gathering where you want to offer something uniquely delightful and indulgent.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- For the filling:
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup pineapple preserves
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- For the topping:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate syrup
- Chopped nuts (such as peanuts or almonds)
- Mini chocolate chips
- Maraschino cherries
Directions:
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
- Make the filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well. Beat in eggs one at a time, just until blended. Pour half of the filling over the crust.
- Add fruit layers:
- Layer the sliced bananas over the first layer of filling. Spoon dollops of pineapple and strawberry preserves over the bananas. Carefully pour the remaining cheesecake filling on top, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Bake the cheesecake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 65-70 minutes or until the center is just set and the edges are lightly browned. Turn off the oven, open the oven door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Chill:
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Decorate and serve:
- Before serving, top the cheesecake with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, and a cherry on top. Slice and serve chilled.
This Banana Split Cheesecake is a sumptuous blend of nostalgic flavors and creamy cheesecake luxury, making it a perfect choice for a festive dessert that everyone will remember.
