Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping:
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to cover the bottom evenly. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the sour cream, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
Bake the Cheesecake:
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices (about 5 minutes).
In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the water, then add the mixture to the saucepan. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
Remove from heat and allow the topping to cool completely.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, remove it from the springform pan.
Spoon the strawberry topping over the cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries if desired.