Banana Cream Cheesecake

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups)
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted)
• Cream cheese (16 ounces, softened)
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup)
• Ripe bananas (2, mashed)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Whipped cream (1 cup, plus more for topping)
• Banana slices (1 for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. A slight jiggle in the center is okay; it will firm up as it cools.
7. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
8. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
9. Before serving, spread whipped cream generously over the top of the cheesecake and garnish with fresh banana slices.
10. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy goodness!