Bananas Foster Cheesecake Recipe: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Dessert

Bananas Foster Cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one unforgettable treat. This recipe layers creamy cheesecake with a rich, caramelized banana topping, inspired by the famous New Orleans dish. A buttery graham cracker crust sets the foundation, while the smooth cheesecake filling adds a luscious contrast to the warm, rum-infused sauce. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and velvety texture.

This dessert impresses at dinner parties, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something extraordinary. The caramelized bananas bring a deep, indulgent flavor, while a touch of cinnamon enhances the warmth of the dish. A splash of dark rum gives the sauce its signature depth, making each forkful taste like a celebration. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of decadence.

Ingredients for Bananas Foster Cheesecake

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Bananas Foster Topping:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup brown sugar, packed
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 ripe bananas, sliced
2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment Needed:

9-inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer (hand or stand)
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Saucepan
Cooling rack
Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Water bath (for baking)

Related recipe: Banana pudding cheesecake recipe

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Bananas Foster Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed until just combined. Sprinkle in the flour and mix until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and smooth.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and add about 1 inch of hot water to create a water bath. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

4. Chill the Cheesecake

Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and place it on a cooling rack. Once it reaches room temperature, cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. Chilling helps the cheesecake set and enhances its texture.

5. Prepare the Bananas Foster Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon, cooking until the sugar dissolves. Add the sliced bananas and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened. Pour in the dark rum (if using) and carefully ignite with a long lighter to flambé. Once the flames subside, stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat.

6. Assemble the Cheesecake

Carefully remove the chilled cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter. Spoon the warm bananas foster topping over the cheesecake, letting the caramelized sauce drizzle down the sides.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cheesecake and serve immediately. For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy this decadent fusion of creamy cheesecake and rich, caramelized bananas!

Related Recipe: Banana cream cheesecake recipe

Tips for Slicing Cheesecake

Use a Sharp Knife – A long, sharp knife (preferably non-serrated) makes clean cuts without dragging through the cheesecake.
Warm the Knife – Dip the knife in hot water for a few seconds, then wipe it dry before slicing. This helps create smooth, neat slices.
Clean Between Cuts – Wipe the knife with a damp paper towel after each slice to prevent buildup and keep the edges clean.
Chill the Cheesecake Completely – A fully chilled cheesecake holds its shape better and is easier to slice without crumbling.
Mark Before Cutting – Lightly score the top of the cheesecake with a knife or toothpick to guide even slices.
Use a Gentle Sawing Motion – Avoid pressing straight down. Instead, use a gentle back-and-forth motion to maintain the cheesecake’s structure.
Refrigerate Between Servings – If serving over time, keep the cheesecake chilled to maintain firmness and prevent melting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

For the best texture and flavor, store Bananas Foster Cheesecake properly. Once fully cooled, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. A springform pan with a lid works well, but plastic wrap or aluminum foil also helps seal in freshness. If making ahead, prepare and bake the cheesecake a day or two in advance, then store it without the topping. Add the Bananas Foster sauce just before serving for the best results.

Freezing is another great option. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. For added protection, place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the topping.

If storing leftover cheesecake with the sauce already added, note that the topping may slightly soften the cheesecake over time. For the best experience, keep the topping separate and add it fresh to each slice before serving.

Conclusion

Bananas Foster Cheesecake is a showstopping dessert that brings together the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the deep caramelized flavors of bananas and brown sugar. Every bite is a perfect balance of smooth cheesecake, crunchy crust, and warm, spiced topping. Whether served at a holiday gathering, special occasion, or simply as a weekend indulgence, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

With proper chilling, careful slicing, and the right storage techniques, you can enjoy this cheesecake at its best. Preparing it ahead of time makes it even more convenient, allowing you to focus on the finishing touch—the decadent Bananas Foster topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and watch it disappear from the table.