Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Banana slices and whipped cream for topping (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool.
4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
6. Mix in sour cream and mashed bananas until just combined.
7. Pour cheesecake batter over cooled crust and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
9. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
10. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
11. Spread or pipe whipped cream over chilled cheesecake bars and garnish with banana slices if desired.
12. Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 16 bars
Tips:
Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor in the cheesecake filling.
Chill the bars thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean, neat cuts.