Craving a decadent dessert that’s creamy, nutty, and loaded with caramel flavor? This Almond Crust Banana Caramel Cheesecake delivers everything you love in a rich cheesecake—velvety texture, natural banana sweetness, and a luscious caramel topping—on top of a buttery almond meal crust.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
Almond meal crust – Naturally gluten-free and full of nutty flavor.
Banana-infused filling – Perfectly sweet without being overpowering.
Rich caramel topping – Adds a dreamy, indulgent finish.
No flour needed – Great for gluten-conscious bakers.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Almond Crust:
Almond Meal (1½ cups):
A gluten-free, nutty base that gives a unique twist to the traditional graham cracker crust.Granulated Sugar (¼ cup):
Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the almonds.Unsalted Butter (¼ cup, melted):
Binds the crust ingredients and delivers a rich, buttery taste.
For the Banana Cheesecake Filling:
Cream Cheese (3 packages, 8 oz each):
The base of the cheesecake—rich, smooth, and tangy.Granulated Sugar (1 cup):
Sweetens the filling perfectly.Vanilla Extract (1 tsp):
Enhances the banana and caramel flavors.Large Eggs (3):
Provide structure and a creamy texture.Sour Cream (1 cup):
Adds a light tang and ultra-smooth texture.Heavy Cream (½ cup):
Enriches the filling for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.Mashed Bananas (2 ripe):
The star flavor—naturally sweet and fragrant.
For the Topping:
Caramel Sauce (1 cup):
Drizzled on top for an indulgent, golden finish
Pro Tips for Success
Use ripe bananas: The browner the banana, the better the flavor.
Don’t skip the cooling step: It prevents cracking and helps the cheesecake set perfectly.
Use a water bath (optional): Wrap the pan in foil and place it in a larger pan with hot water to prevent cracking.
Variations and Substitutions
Nut-free option: Swap almond meal with graham cracker crumbs or cookie crumbs.
Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or crushed toffee on top with the caramel.
Chocolate twist: Add a chocolate drizzle or a thin ganache layer for a bananas foster vibe.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
FAQ
Can I use almond flour instead of almond meal?
Yes! Almond flour has a finer texture but will work just as well for the crust.
Is this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes—when using certified gluten-free almond meal and caramel sauce, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat versions may result in a runnier texture.
