Ingredients
Scale
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also tells a story. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
If you’re out of vanilla wafers, graham crackers make a fine substitute. And if you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of chopped nuts to the crust for a little extra crunch!
Instructions
Let’s bring this delightful dessert to life with these easy-to-follow steps:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least an hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing into squares.
I find that letting the cheesecake sit overnight in the fridge enhances the flavors and makes slicing a breeze!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International