Description
Delight in these creamy Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich banana-infused cheesecake filling. Perfectly baked and topped with whipped cream and optional banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers, these bars offer a luscious, easy-to-make dessert ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon banana extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
- Optional: sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the mashed bananas, 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and banana extract if using. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and smooth. Fold in the sour cream gently until the batter is uniform and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly when shaken gently.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set completely.
- Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream or whipped topping. Add optional sliced bananas and crushed vanilla wafers for garnish. Cut into bars and serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas to maximize natural sweetness and banana flavor.
- Banana extract enhances the banana taste but can be omitted if unavailable.
- These bars are best served chilled and should be consumed within 2–3 days to preserve freshness and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
