Caramelized Banana Cheesecake

 Ingredients

For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon sugar

For the Cheesecake:
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 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
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Glaze:
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon water

 Directions

Step 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.

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

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour 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.

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

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

Step 6: Assemble
Once the cheesecake is completely cool, top with caramelized bananas.
Drizzle with glaze and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 | Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving