Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup crushed peanuts (optional, for extra crunch)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ripe banana, sliced for garnish
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. If using, mix in the crushed peanuts for added texture.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is set and slightly golden. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add in the granulated sugar and continue beating until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream, peanut butter, mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked open for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add the peanut butter and powdered sugar, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the peanut butter whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with sliced bananas and crushed peanuts, if desired.
- Slice and enjoy your Banana Peanut Butter Cheesecake, “The Elvis”!
Tips:
- For easier slicing, run a knife under hot water before cutting into the cheesecake.
- This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup.