Banana Cream Cheesecake Recipe

Banana Cream Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the fresh, sweet flavor of ripe bananas.

This recipe features a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a rich banana-infused cheesecake filling, and a smooth Bavarian cream layer—all topped with fluffy whipped cream and fresh banana slices.

Every bite offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it ideal for celebrations or a special treat. With clear steps and expert tips, this guide will help you master this stunning dessert at home.

Ingredients Checklist

Before starting, gather these carefully selected ingredients. Divided by components, this list helps streamline your preparation and ensures no detail is overlooked.

Crust Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups (302g) vanilla wafer crumbs — finely crushed for a crunchy base

• 10 tablespoons (140g) salted butter, melted — binds crumbs and adds richness

• 3 tablespoons (39g) granulated sugar — enhances sweetness

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients

• 24 oz (678g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature — the creamy foundation

• 1 cup (207g) granulated sugar — sweetens without overpowering

• 3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour — stabilizes and firms the filling

• 1/4 cup (58g) sour cream, room temperature — adds moisture and tang

• 4 teaspoons banana extract — boosts concentrated banana flavor

• 1 cup (240ml) pureed ripe banana (about 2 medium bananas) — natural sweetness and moisture

• 3 large eggs, room temperature — provides structure and richness

Bavarian Cream Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon powdered gelatin — sets the cream firmly

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk — softens gelatin

• 2 egg yolks — enrich the cream

• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream — for the custard base

• 2 tablespoons (26g) granulated sugar — sweetens custard

• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract — classic flavor enhancer

• 1/4 teaspoon banana extract — complements banana notes

• 2/3 cup (160ml) heavy whipping cream, cold — whipped to fold in

• 5 tablespoons (36g) powdered sugar — sweetens whipped cream

Whipped Cream Topping Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cold heavy whipping cream

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Fresh ripe bananas, sliced — garnish (use just-ripe bananas to avoid bitterness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps for a flawless Banana Cream Cheesecake with a delicate Bavarian cream finish.

Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, mix vanilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles damp sand.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of the springform pan using the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed glass.

4. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat cream cheese in a large bowl on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until completely smooth and lump-free.

2. Add sugar and flour; beat until fluffy and combined.

3. Mix in sour cream and banana extract until smooth.

4. Puree bananas until smooth and fold into the batter.

5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.

6. Pour filling evenly over the cooled crust.

Baking the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch drips. Optional: For a crack-free cheesecake, place the pan inside a larger pan filled with about 1 inch of hot water (water bath).

2. Bake for 65–75 minutes until edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.

3. Turn off oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 30 minutes to cool gradually and prevent cracks.

4. Remove and refrigerate for at least 5–6 hours or overnight to fully set.

Preparing the Bavarian Cream

1. Bloom gelatin by sprinkling over milk in a small bowl; let soften for 5–10 minutes.

2. Whisk egg yolks, heavy cream, and sugar in a heatproof bowl. Cook over a double boiler or low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (~5–7 minutes).

3. Remove from heat and stir in bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Add vanilla and banana extracts. Let cool to room temperature.

4. Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into cooled custard base, taking care not to deflate it.

5. Spread Bavarian cream evenly over chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set.

Whipped Cream Topping and Garnish

1. Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks.

2. Spread or pipe whipped cream over Bavarian layer.

3. Garnish with fresh banana slices just before serving to avoid browning. Optionally, drizzle caramel sauce or sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers for texture.

Tips for Perfect Results

Master this dessert with these expert insights:

• Use ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for optimum sweetness and flavor depth.

• Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly and prevent lumps.

• Avoid overmixing eggs to reduce air bubbles that cause cracks.

• Water bath method keeps the cheesecake moist and crack-free by providing even heat.

• Bloom gelatin properly for smooth Bavarian cream without lumps.

• Fold whipped cream gently to maintain the airy texture of Bavarian cream.

• Add fresh banana slices last to prevent browning—brush with lemon juice if prepping early.

• Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water when slicing to get clean cheesecake portions.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your presentation and enjoyment with these ideas:

• Serve chilled with a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top.

• Pair with a cup of robust coffee or spiced chai to complement the sweetness.

• For special occasions, plate with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce and a sprig of mint.

• Offer alongside fresh berries for a fresh contrast.

• Use decorative piping techniques with whipped cream to elevate visual appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Cream Cheesecake recipe is a perfect blend of creamy texture, fresh banana flavor, and elegant layers that impress at any gathering.

The balance of a buttery vanilla wafer crust, smooth banana-infused filling, and the delicate Bavarian cream creates a multi-textured experience that’s both sophisticated and comforting.

By following precise techniques and tips, you can confidently achieve a flawless cheesecake with minimal effort. Whether for a holiday, birthday, or indulgent treat, this dessert offers a rich, fruity twist on a classic favorite that will delight family and friends alike.