Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake offers a unique twist on a classic dessert by incorporating the tropical sweetness of caramelized bananas and a delicious rum glaze. The smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake pairs wonderfully with the warm, slightly caramelized fruit, creating a perfect contrast. The rum glaze adds a subtle depth of flavor, making every bite memorable. Plus, the graham cracker crust brings a nice crunch that complements the softness of the cheesecake. It's a dessert that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also feels like a special treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 tablespoon sugar

For the Cheesecake:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs

For the Caramelized Bananas:

• 2 bananas, sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Rum Glaze:

• ¼ cup rum
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, flour, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition until just combined.

3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour to cool. After that, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.

4. Caramelize the Bananas: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced bananas and brown sugar. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Sprinkle with cinnamon and set aside to cool.

5. Make the Rum Glaze: In a saucepan, combine rum, brown sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

6. Assemble: Once the cheesecake has completely cooled, top it with the caramelized bananas. Drizzle the rum glaze over the bananas and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves about 10-12 people, depending on portion sizes.
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes (for cheesecake) + 10 minutes for the bananas and glaze
• Cooling time: 1 hour (in the oven) + 1-2 hours at room temperature for the cheesecake to cool completely

Variations

• Fruits: While bananas are the star of this dessert, feel free to switch things up by using other fruits such as pineapple, mango, or berries.
• Alcohol-Free Version: If you prefer not to use rum, you can substitute it with fruit juice or even vanilla extract for the glaze.
• Add Nuts: For some crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the caramelized bananas before drizzling with the rum glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or place the entire cheesecake in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Yes! The cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge after it has cooled completely and top it with the bananas and rum glaze just before serving.

2. Can I use a different crust for this cheesecake?

Absolutely! You can substitute the graham cracker crust with any crust of your choice, such as an Oreo crust, almond crust, or even a coconut crust.

3. What can I use instead of rum for the glaze?

You can replace the rum with fruit juice like orange or pineapple juice or even water with a splash of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version of the glaze.

4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly. If it looks too liquidy in the center, it may need more time in the oven.

5. Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake before adding the bananas and rum glaze. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

For a slight twist, you could substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone, ricotta, or even Greek yogurt, though the texture may vary slightly.

7. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

To avoid cracks, be sure not to overmix the batter. Also, letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven and then at room temperature can help prevent cracking.

8. Can I add more spices to the caramelized bananas?

Definitely! You can experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of allspice for a more complex flavor profile.

9. What should I do if my cheesecake is too firm?

If the cheesecake comes out too firm, try reducing the baking time slightly next time. Also, make sure not to overmix the eggs when adding them.

10. Can I make this cheesecake without the rum glaze?

Yes, you can skip the rum glaze if you prefer. The caramelized bananas are flavorful enough on their own, or you could substitute with a different glaze like chocolate or a fruit compote.

Conclusion

This Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze is an indulgent dessert that combines rich, creamy cheesecake with the sweetness of caramelized bananas and the unique depth of a rum glaze. Whether you serve it at a special occasion or as an everyday treat, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, with plenty of options for variations, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Enjoy every bite of this decadent dessert!