Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy – A Fruity Dream!

Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy – A Fruity Dream! (Page 2 ) | March 22, 2025

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper.
Combine the crust ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture sticks together when pressed.
Press the mixture into the pan: Pour the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to firmly press the crumbs down into an even layer.
Bake the crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and slightly firm. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
Incorporate the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add sour cream and heavy cream: Mix in the sour cream, heavy cream, and flour. Beat until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
Pour the filling into the crust: Once the crust has cooled, pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake the cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 40-45 minutes. The center should be set but slightly jiggly when gently shaken. It will firm up as it cools.
Cool the cheesecake: After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Then, remove from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Chill the cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.

Prepare the bananas: Slice the ripe bananas into thin rounds and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Prepare the strawberries: Slice the fresh strawberries and place them in a small bowl. If desired, mix the strawberries with sugar and strawberry jam to enhance the flavor and sweetness.
Assemble the topping: Just before serving, arrange the banana slices on top of the cheesecake, followed by the sliced strawberries. Drizzle the strawberry jam over the top for a shiny, sweet finish.