Pin Recipe This Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze is a show-stopping dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, caramelized bananas, and a boozy glaze for an unforgettable treat.
I remember the first time I made this cheesecake for my friends—they couldnt believe how the rum glaze brought everything together. The caramelized bananas became the highlight of the evening.
Ingredients
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat, creates the silky texture and rich flavor essential for cheesecake.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the base and balances cream cheese tang.
- Eggs: Helps set the filling and keeps it creamy.
- Sour Cream: Adds tang and makes the texture ultra creamy.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor in both the filling and glaze.
- Ripe Bananas: Caramelizes for the topping; naturally sweet and soft.
- Brown Sugar: Used for caramelizing bananas and making the glaze; brings depth.
- Butter: For caramelizing and glaze, creates a glossy finish.
- Dark Rum: Punches up the glaze with bold, boozy notes.
- Cornstarch (optional): Thickens glaze for a smooth pourable finish.
- Graham Crackers (crust): Provides a crunchy, slightly sweet base.
- Melted Butter (crust): Binds the crust for that perfect bite.
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Crush graham crackers finely, mix with melted butter and faint sugar until sandy. Press evenly in a springform pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes. Cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat softened cream cheese smooth. Add sugar and mix until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently, then fold in sour cream and vanilla extract until lump-free.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Spread filling over cooled crust, tap pan to remove air bubbles. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55 to 65 minutes. The edge should be set with a slight center jiggle. Cool in oven with door cracked for 1 hour, then refrigerate at least 4 hours.
- Caramelize the Bananas:
- Slice bananas thick. In skillet, melt butter and add brown sugar. Cook until bubbly, add bananas, cook until golden and glossy.
- Make the Rum Glaze:
- In saucepan, simmer brown sugar, butter, and rum until dissolved and slightly thick. For thicker glaze, add optional cornstarch slurry and cook briefly. Cool slightly.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange caramelized bananas on cooled cheesecake, drizzle with warm rum glaze. Slice and serve while glaze is warm.
Pin Recipe This cheesecake has become a go-to for special occasions in my family. Serving it at our last gathering got everyone begging for the recipe to make at home.
Flavor Variations
Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for extra warmth, or swap out the bananas for caramelized apples if you love a twist.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. Cheesecake also freezes well in slices for quick treats later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts to add texture and contrast to each slice.
Pin Recipe The combination of caramelized bananas and rum glaze makes every bite unforgettable. Enjoy this dessert with friends for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake filling?
Use softened full-fat cream cheese and mix until completely smooth before adding the sugar and eggs.
- → Why caramelize bananas for the topping?
Caramelizing bananas intensifies their natural sweetness and provides a glossy, flavorful element.
- → What is the purpose of the rum glaze?
Dark rum in the glaze adds complexity, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- → Can I make the crust without graham crackers?
Yes, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work well as alternatives for the graham cracker crust.
- → How do I prevent cracks on the surface?
Cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven after baking, then refrigerate to set properly and avoid cracks.
- → Is cornstarch necessary for the glaze?
Cornstarch is optional; use it only if you prefer a thicker consistency for the rum glaze.