Layered Banana Cheesecake with Crunchy Crumb Topping: A Crowd-Pleasing Delight

Introduction

Looking for a dessert that’s both stunning and delicious? This Layered Banana Cheesecake with Crunchy Crumb Topping is the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures, layered with fresh banana slices and topped with golden crumbs. Ideal for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply treating yourself, this no-bake dessert is easy to make and impossible to resist. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups digestive biscuit or graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Banana Layer:

• 3 bananas, sliced

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp brown sugar

For Garnish:

• Banana slices
• Whipped cream
• Caramel or honey drizzle (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan to form a compact crust.
3. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 20 minutes while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Spread half of the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust.
2. Arrange a layer of banana slices on top of the filling.
3. Spread the remaining cheesecake filling over the banana layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
4. Add another layer of banana slices around the sides of the pan, pressing them gently into the filling for a decorative touch.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the top layer of the cheesecake.

Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake

1. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with additional banana slices, dollops of whipped cream, and an optional drizzle of caramel or honey.
3. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

• Layer Neatly: Smooth each layer carefully to create a professional, clean look.
• Banana Freshness: Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Storage: Keep the cheesecake refrigerated and consume within 3 days for maximum freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Layered Elegance: The beautiful banana layers create a visually impressive dessert.
• Crunchy Topping: The crumb topping adds the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
• Simple and No-Bake: This recipe is fuss-free and perfect for beginner bakers or those short on time.

Conclusion

This Layered Banana Cheesecake with Crunchy Crumb Topping is a dessert that will steal the show at any gathering. Creamy, fruity, and perfectly balanced with a buttery crust and crumbly topping, it’s a must-try for cheesecake lovers. Make it today and enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert!