1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
Mix in vanilla, mashed bananas, sour cream, and dark rum.
Stir in flour until fully incorporated.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
Place the springform pan in a water bath (wrap the bottom in foil and place in a larger pan with 1 inch of hot water).
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
4. Make the Caramelized Bananas:
In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in brown sugar and cook until bubbly.
Add sliced bananas and cook for 1–2 minutes per side.
Pour in dark rum, cook for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
5. Prepare the Rum Glaze:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in brown sugar and rum, letting it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Assemble & Serve:
Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, top with the caramelized bananas.
Drizzle the warm rum glaze over the top.
Serve slices with extra whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat! 🍨🍰
💡 Tips for Success:
No Water Bath? Place a small pan of water in the oven to keep the cheesecake from cracking.
Want Extra Creaminess? Use ½ cup heavy cream in place of sour cream.
Make Ahead: Cheesecake tastes even better after chilling overnight!
Boozy or Not? Skip the rum and use maple syrup or vanilla extract for an alcohol-free version.
Why You’ll Love It:
This Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze is decadent, creamy, and packed with deep, caramelized banana flavors! 🍌🍮 The hint of rum and buttery caramel sauce make this dessert an irresistible masterpiece for any occasion. 😍