
Frozen Banana Cheesecake with Nut Crunch: A Chilled Summer Delight
Introduction
Beat the heat with this Frozen Banana Cheesecake! This refreshing dessert features a creamy banana filling, a nutty crust, and a delightful crunch in every bite. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a make-ahead treat, this frozen cheesecake is as easy to make as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Nutty Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup crushed pecans or hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the Topping:
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- 2 tbsp chocolate or caramel drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Nutty Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, crushed nuts, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
- Chill the crust in the freezer while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Pour the filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Freeze the Cheesecake
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
- Arrange banana slices around the edges and sprinkle the top with crushed nuts.
- Drizzle chocolate or caramel over the top for an elegant finish.
Tips for Success
- Ripened Bananas: Use overripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- Firm Whipping Cream: Ensure your heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks for a stable filling.
- Storage: Keep the cheesecake covered in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for a ready-to-serve dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Frozen Perfection: A refreshing and creamy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Nutty Crunch: The combination of nuts in the crust and topping adds irresistible texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for entertaining, as it can be prepared days in advance.
Conclusion
This Frozen Banana Cheesecake with Nut Crunch is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for summer. Its creamy texture, nutty crust, and refreshing flavor will make it the star of your dessert table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a frozen slice of heaven!