Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake Recipe

The Creamiest Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake Recipe Ever

Whipping up a dreamy peanut butter banana cheesecake can transport you to dessert paradise with minimal effort.

Creamy textures and rich flavors merge seamlessly in this decadent treat.

Sweet bananas complement the nutty peanut butter perfectly, creating a harmonious blend that melts in your mouth.

Cheesecake lovers will appreciate the smooth, velvety consistency that makes each bite irresistible.

Elegant yet simple, this dessert requires basic ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Layers of indulgence await as you combine classic flavors into one spectacular dish.

What Makes Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake Special

  • Craft a Crowd-Pleaser: This peanut butter banana cheesecake transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
  • Master Easy Baking: Beginners can confidently create this recipe with straightforward steps and basic kitchen tools, making it perfect for novice bakers wanting to impress.
  • Customize Your Delight: Flexible serving options like chocolate drizzle or peanut garnish allow personal creativity, letting each baker add their unique touch to the dessert.
  • Dessert for Any Occasion: Whether it's a family gathering, potluck, or quiet weekend treat, this cheesecake adapts perfectly to different social settings and personal cravings.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake

Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds richness to the base.
Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth and creamy texture of the cheesecake.
  • Peanut Butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy consistency to the filling.
  • Banana: Provides natural sweetness and a subtle fruity flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps create a smooth texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet aroma.
Topping and Garnish:
  • Chocolate Syrup, Chopped Peanuts: Optional toppings that add extra flavor and crunch to the finished cheesecake.

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Crust

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Melted butter

Blend the crumbs and butter thoroughly. Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating an even layer that will serve as the cheesecake’s foundation.

Step 3: Whip Creamy Filling

  • Cream cheese
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Peanut butter
  • Ripe bananas

Beat cream cheese until silky smooth. Gradually incorporate sugar, vanilla, and peanut butter, mixing until perfectly combined. Fold in mashed bananas, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Build Cheesecake Layer

Gently pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create a uniform surface.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center looks almost set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 6: Cool Down

Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours or ideally overnight to achieve maximum flavor and texture.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, consider adding delightful toppings like:
  • Chocolate drizzle
  • Chopped peanuts
  • Sliced bananas
  • Whipped cream

Pro Tips for Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake

  • Prevent Cracks: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter to reduce the risk of surface cracking during baking.
  • Balance Banana Flavor: Use ripe bananas for a more intense, sweet flavor that complements the peanut butter.
  • Create Smooth Texture: Bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free filling.
  • Enhance Crust Stability: Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid base that won't crumble.
  • Control Moisture: Pat mashed bananas with a paper towel to remove excess liquid and prevent a watery cheesecake.

Creative Variations for Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly cheesecake.
  • Vegan Alternative: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace eggs with mashed banana or silken tofu.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute powdered sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and use natural peanut butter without added sugars.
  • Chocolate Lovers' Remix: Mix cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling and add chocolate chips for an extra rich chocolate-peanut butter banana experience.

Pairing Ideas for Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake

  • Pair with Rich Coffee: Serve a robust dark roast or smooth espresso to complement the creamy cheesecake's sweetness and balance its rich, nutty flavors.
  • Match with Sweet Dessert Wine: Select a late harvest Riesling or Moscato d'Asti, whose honeyed notes will enhance the banana and peanut butter undertones.
  • Garnish with Caramel Crunch: Top with salted caramel sauce and toasted pecans to add contrasting textures and amplify the dessert's complex flavor profile.
  • Create Beverage Contrast: Enjoy a cold glass of milk or chocolate milk to cut through the cheesecake's richness and provide a refreshing counterpoint.

Storage Guidelines for Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
  • Slice cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each piece separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain best quality and texture.
  • Remove frozen cheesecake from freezer and let it defrost slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power. Alternatively, let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften and enhance flavor.

FAQs for Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Beat cream cheese at room temperature and avoid overmixing. Use a water bath during baking and let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.

  • Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, but choose a smooth variety without added oils or sugars. Natural peanut butter might make the texture slightly different, so you may need to adjust consistency by adding a bit more powdered sugar.

  • How ripe should the bananas be?

Use very ripe bananas with dark spots, as they’re sweeter and provide more intense banana flavor. Overripe bananas will give the best taste and help create a smoother cheesecake texture.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake Recipe

Peanut Butter Banana Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 60 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy peanut butter banana cheesecake blends rich flavors into a luxurious dessert that dances between comfort and indulgence. Smooth cream cheese meets ripe bananas and nutty peanut butter, creating a heavenly slice you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 grams) creamy peanut butter
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Sweetening and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

  • Chocolate syrup
  • Chopped peanuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing its surface, then preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper baking environment.
  2. Create a robust foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, firmly pressing the mixture into the pan’s bottom to form a compact, uniform crust.
  3. Whip cream cheese in a mixing bowl until silky smooth, gradually incorporating powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peanut butter until the mixture achieves a consistent, creamy texture.
  4. Gently fold mashed bananas into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution of fruit throughout the filling.
  5. Carefully transfer the prepared filling over the graham cracker crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any potential air pockets.
  6. Position the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, watching for a nearly set center that indicates perfect doneness.
  7. Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature, which helps prevent cracking.
  8. Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours or preferably overnight to achieve optimal flavor and texture.
  9. Before serving, enhance the presentation by drizzling chocolate syrup or sprinkling chopped peanuts across the surface for added visual appeal and crunch.

Notes

  • Choose ripe, spotty bananas for maximum sweetness and deeper banana flavor in the cheesecake.
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing.
  • Use a water bath while baking to prevent surface cracking and create a silky, creamy texture.
  • Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 441 kcal
  • Sugar: 26 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star