Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake:
– 2 pounds (900g) cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
For the Strawberry Sauce:
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
3. Bake the crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Let it cool completely.
4. Prepare the cheesecake: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
5. Add the bananas and strawberries: Stir in the sliced bananas and strawberries.
6. Pour the cheesecake batter: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
7. Bake the cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
8. Cool the cheesecake: Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for 1 hour. Then, run a knife around the edges and release the springform.
9. Chill the cheesecake: Let the cheesecake cool completely on a wire rack. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight.
10. Prepare the strawberry sauce: In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries, granulated sugar, and water until smooth.
11. Serve: Slice the cheesecake and serve with the strawberry sauce spooned over the top.
Tips and Variations:
– To ensure a smooth cheesecake, make sure to beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
– Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
– You can substitute the strawberries with other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries.
– To make a water bath, wrap the outside of the springform pan with foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water. This will help the cheesecake cook evenly and prevent cracking.