If you’re craving a luscious, creamy dessert that feels indulgent yet simple, the Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe is exactly what you need. This treasure blends the sweet, mellow flavor of ripe bananas with the rich tang of cream cheese, all elevated by a silky caramel topping that makes every bite truly unforgettable. Without the fuss of a crust, it’s easier on the hands but just as impressive on the palate, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to a slice of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in crafting the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and texture. From the ripe bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture to the cream cheese providing that signature richness, every component works in harmony.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: Offers natural sweetness and moisture, plus that unmistakable banana flavor.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base that gives the cheesecake its velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a warm, caramel-like depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind everything together and provide structure.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a slight tang and contributes to the smooth mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all other flavors with its warm aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings a subtle spice that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional): For those who want a slightly firmer texture, but you can skip this for gluten-free.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce: To drizzle on top, adding luscious sweetness and a gorgeous finish.
- Optional: sliced banana and whipped cream: For an elegant and delicious garnish.
How to Make Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and lightly grease the sides for easy release later. Setting up a water bath later on will ensure your cheesecake remains moist and crack-free.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add both granulated and brown sugars and continue beating until everything is nicely combined and fluffy. Fold in the mashed bananas, then add eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition for an even, silky batter. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and the optional flour if you’d like a firmer slice. This batter is where all the magic happens—fluffy, rich, and bursting with banana caramel promise.
Step 3: Bake in a Water Bath
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish and pour hot water around it to a depth of about one inch—this gentle water bath prevents cracks and keeps the cheesecake smooth. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until the center is set but still slightly wobbly, ensuring it won’t dry out.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
After baking, turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for one hour. Then remove from the oven and cool at room temperature to avoid temperature shocks. Finally, put it in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight—this chilling step is vital for that perfect sliceable texture.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
When it’s time to serve, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top, and add sliced bananas and whipped cream if you like. This not only adds flair but enhances the luscious combination of flavors, sealing your Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe as a showstopper.
How to Serve Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes take this cheesecake from wonderful to wow. Fresh banana slices bring freshness and chewiness, while a swirl of whipped cream adds lightness. A final drizzle of warm caramel sauce ties everything together making every bite irresistibly smooth and sweet.
Side Dishes
Since the cheesecake is rich and filling, light sides work best. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a herbal tea complements the creamy texture wonderfully. If you want something fruity, a berry compote or tangy citrus salad can provide a nice contrast and brighten your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual mini cheesecakes in jars or ramekins topped with banana chips and a touch of sea salt caramel for a classy twist. Alternatively, layer slices of this Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe with crushed nuts and caramel in parfait glasses for a beautiful, easy-to-assemble dessert that will impress guests at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After indulging, you might have leftovers—good news, they keep beautifully. Store your cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the texture creamy and the flavors fresh, ready for another decadent slice when cravings call.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cheesecake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, keeping every bit of that creamy goodness intact.
Reheating
While this cheesecake is typically served cold, if you prefer a softer texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving because it can cause separation and uneven texture. The natural creaminess of the Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe shines best when gently warmed or chilled.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free?
You can substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Is the flour necessary in the recipe?
The flour is optional and adds a bit of firmness to help the cheesecake hold its shape better. If you prefer a softer and creamier texture or require gluten-free, it’s perfectly fine to omit it.
How ripe should the bananas be?
For the best flavor and natural sweetness, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. This also helps the bananas mash smoothly into the batter, enhancing the overall taste.
Why use a water bath in baking cheesecake?
The water bath provides gentle, even heat and moisture, which prevents cracks and creates an ultra-smooth and creamy texture. Skipping it might result in a drier or cracked cheesecake.
Can I make this recipe in advance for a party?
Absolutely! This Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe is ideal for making a day ahead or more. Just keep it refrigerated and add caramel and garnishes just before serving for the freshest presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a little celebration every time you bite into it. Its creamy, dreamy texture matched with rich banana and caramel flavors makes it a true crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert that’s as easy to make as it is unforgettable.
Print
Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Crustless Banana Caramel Cheesecake is a creamy, luscious dessert featuring ripe mashed bananas blended into a smooth cream cheese batter and baked to perfection in a water bath. Topped with rich caramel sauce and optionally garnished with fresh banana slices and whipped cream, it offers a decadent and naturally gluten-free treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Batter
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for a slightly firmer texture)
- Pinch of salt
Caramel Topping
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: sliced banana and whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides to prevent sticking.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and brown sugar, continuing to beat until well combined and fluffy. Stir in the mashed bananas. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and flour if using, until everything is blended evenly.
- Prepare the Water Bath: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan into a larger baking dish. Carefully pour about 1 inch of hot water into the outer baking dish to create a water bath, which helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly wobbly. Then, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent sudden temperature changes.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool it completely at room temperature. After cooling, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, drizzle the chilled cheesecake with caramel sauce. Optionally, garnish with fresh banana slices and a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
- This crustless cheesecake is naturally gluten-free if you omit the flour or substitute with a gluten-free alternative.
- The water bath is key to achieving a creamy texture and preventing cracks in the cheesecake surface.
- For best results, use ripe bananas to ensure natural sweetness and moisture.
- Allow sufficient chilling time to achieve clean slices and optimal flavor.
