If you’ve been searching for that perfect combination of creamy richness and fresh fruit brightness, this Banana Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute game changer. It brings together the smooth texture of classic cheesecake with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the vibrant pop of fresh strawberry topping. Each bite feels like a delightful celebration of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try it. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe captures that nostalgic comfort with a fruit-filled twist you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet when combined, create a luscious dessert where every element shines through. The crust offers a buttery crunch, the filling is rich and velvety with fresh banana flavor, and the strawberry topping adds a refreshing and colorful finish.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for your crust, providing a slightly sweet and crispy base.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust, filling, and topping just right without overpowering.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust together, giving it richness and structure.
- Cream cheese (softened): The creamy star of the filling that makes the cheesecake irresistible.
- Eggs: Help set the filling, creating that smooth, dense cheesecake texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the filling.
- Ripe banana (mashed): Brings natural sweetness and moisture, complementing the cream cheese beautifully.
- Sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess and prevents the filling from becoming too dense.
- Fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced): The bright, fresh topping that balances the richness.
- Lemon juice: Lifts the strawberry flavors while adding a slight zing.
- Cornstarch mixed with water: Thickens the strawberry topping to a glossy, perfect consistency.
How to Make Banana Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until every crumb is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust. Bake it for 8 to 10 minutes; this brief baking time gives the crust a lovely golden color and that satisfying crunch. Once done, let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Banana Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until it’s perfectly smooth and lump-free. Then, add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition to maintain a silky texture. Next, stir in vanilla, mashed ripe banana, and sour cream, ensuring everything is well combined. This step is crucial as the banana flavor beautifully infuses the filling, creating a creamy base that’s both rich and flavorful.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the luscious filling over your prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to smooth the top. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is just set—a slight wobble is perfect here. To avoid cracks, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually inside for about an hour. Once cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to let it fully firm up and develop flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Fresh Strawberry Topping
While the cheesecake chills, make the topping by combining sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the strawberries start to release their juices, about 5 minutes, giving you that natural, vibrant syrup. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until thickened. Let this mixture cool completely before spooning it generously over the chilled cheesecake just before serving.
How to Serve Banana Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
The strawberry topping already adds a beautiful splash of red and natural sweetness, but you can take it a step further by adding thin fresh banana slices right before serving. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts or a few fresh mint leaves can also add texture and a delightful aroma that will excite your guests visually and on the palate.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake truly shines on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, consider a light, refreshing fruit salad or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The mild creaminess of the ice cream complements the banana and strawberry flavors perfectly, turning your dessert course into a full-fledged celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving individual cheesecake slices in clear dessert cups layered with extra strawberry compote. You could also drizzle a bit of melted chocolate or balsamic reduction over the top for a gourmet twist. A rustic presentation with fresh edible flowers can also make this banana strawberry cheesecake recipe feel like a work of art, perfect for sharing and savoring.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your cheesecake, be sure to cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the cheesecake stays delicious and moist for up to 4 days. This way, you’ll have a ready-to-go dessert to enjoy whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Freezing
You can freeze this cheesecake, but for the best texture, remove the strawberry topping first and store it separately. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing it in the freezer. It can keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add the topping just before serving to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best served chilled and does not require reheating. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let slices sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften perfectly without melting the rich filling or sogging the crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to prevent the topping from becoming too watery. The texture and flavor will still be delicious once cooked with sugar and lemon juice.
What type of bananas work best in this cheesecake?
Use ripe bananas that are soft and flavorful, with plenty of brown spots. Overripe bananas add more natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall taste of the filling.
Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
While a springform pan makes removing the cheesecake easier and keeps its shape intact, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but be gentle during removal to keep the crust and filling together.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy components, but you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and egg substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and taste might vary, but it can still be a tasty alternative.
How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake?
To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake slowly, avoid overmixing the batter, and cool it gradually in the oven with the door ajar. Also, make sure not to overbake—the center should still have a slight wobble when you take it out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Banana Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe that makes it an instant favorite every time. The way the creamy banana-infused filling melds with the zesty strawberry topping is comfort and freshness all wrapped into one dessert. I encourage you to dive in and give this recipe a try—because such a delightful treat deserves a spot in your kitchen and at your table. Get ready for compliments and satisfied smiles all around!
Print
Banana Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Strawberry Cheesecake is a delightful baked dessert featuring a creamy banana-infused cream cheese filling atop a crunchy graham cracker crust, finished with a fresh strawberry topping. Perfectly balanced with smooth, rich textures and fruity flavors, it’s an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana)
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Make the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes to set, then allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate them fully. Stir in vanilla extract, mashed banana, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and bake the cheesecake: Pour the prepared filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully chill and set.
- Make the strawberry topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook the mixture gently until the strawberries release their juices and soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the topping thickens. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Serve: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spoon the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the surface just before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh banana slices for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can use frozen strawberries for the topping; just thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking to achieve the right consistency.
- Add sliced fresh bananas on top right before serving for extra flavor and decorative appeal.
