Caramelized Banana Cheesecake Rum

When I want a dessert guaranteed to wow a crowd or turn an ordinary night into something special, this Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze is my secret weapon. The cheesecake itself is ultra creamy and decadent, but what takes it over the top are the sticky, sweet bananas layered on top and a glossy drizzle of rum glaze. More than just a show-stopping dinner finale, it is also perfect when you crave a breakfast treat that feels like pure indulgence.

I baked this first for my best friend’s birthday party and everyone begged for seconds The rich banana aroma floated through the house — now this is my go-to for every celebration

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: Give the crust its signature crunch and toasty flavor Select a fresh box for the best result
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the cheesecake body Opt for fine sugar for a smoother texture
• Unsalted butter: Holds the crust together and provides richness Use good quality butter for the best flavor
• Cream cheese: The base for a creamy dense texture Always choose bricks and let them soften completely before mixing
• Eggs: Help the cake set to the perfect custardy consistency Large eggs provide reliable results every time
• Sour cream: Lightens the cheesecake and adds a subtle tang Go for full-fat for richness
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and brings out sweetness Real vanilla makes a difference
• Ripe bananas: The star of the topping Choose bananas with dark mottling for best caramelization and flavor
• Brown sugar: Adds a molasses note essential for caramelizing and glazing Look for soft and moist brown sugar for easy mixing
• Butter: For sautéing the bananas and making the glaze Use the same quality butter as the crust
• Dark rum: Brings complexity and adult flavor Choose a dark rum with vanilla and spice undertones
• Cornstarch: Gives an optional silky thickness to the glaze If you use it whisk well to avoid clumps

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:

Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs Mix with granulated sugar and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan making sure to create an even layer Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes then let it cool completely on a rack

Mix the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth Slowly incorporate the sugar scraping down the sides as needed Add eggs one at a time mixing gently after each just until combined Fold in sour cream and vanilla with a spatula avoiding overmixing so the filling stays light

Assemble and Bake:

Pour your cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and use a spatula to smooth the surface Tap the pan a few times to release any bubbles Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 55 to 65 minutes Watch for set edges and a center that still jiggles slightly Turn off the oven crack the door and let the cheesecake rest for one hour before chilling

Chill and Prepare Toppings:

Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to chill at least four hours or overnight for ultimate creaminess

Caramelize the Bananas:

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat then stir in brown sugar until you see a glossy liquid Add thick banana slices in a single layer and cook until golden and sticky flipping carefully so each side caramelizes Remove from heat and set aside

Make the Rum Glaze:

In a small saucepan melt butter and brown sugar over low heat stirring until fully dissolved Pour in the dark rum and let the mixture simmer for two to three minutes For a thicker glaze dissolve cornstarch in a splash of water and whisk it in Cook just until glossy

Finish and Serve:

Arrange caramelized banana slices in swirls or lines on top of your chilled cheesecake Spoon the warm rum glaze over the bananas letting it drip down the sides Slice and serve extra glaze on the side for those who love extra decadence

Pin

You Must Know

• This cheesecake slices beautifully after chilling overnight
• Banana and rum is a timeless pairing that gives a tropical flair
• Leftovers keep well so it is great for make-ahead entertaining

One of my favorite touches is the way the bananas turn almost jammy after caramelizing My nephew always sneaks a spoonful from the pan before they make it onto the cake The aroma alone feels like a celebration

Storage Tips

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge where it stays perfectly creamy for up to four days For longer storage slice and wrap individual pieces then freeze They thaw best in the refrigerator overnight The banana topping and glaze can become slightly softer after freezing but every bite will still taste dreamy

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have graham crackers swap in vanilla wafers or even crispy ginger snaps for a new twist Greek yogurt makes an easy sour cream stand-in in a pinch If you want to skip the rum use a touch of maple syrup and a drop of rum extract or simply make a classic caramel glaze

Pin

Serving Suggestions

This cake is a showpiece straight from the pan but you can elevate it further with a dusting of cinnamon toasted nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream Extra glaze on the side makes for happy guests For brunch try serving small slices alongside strong coffee or spiced chai

Cultural and Historical Context

Cheesecake’s roots stretch back to ancient Greece but the modern cream cheese version is a proud American tradition Adding caramelized bananas gives this dessert a Southern comfort feel inspired by classics like bananas foster while the rum glaze nods to Caribbean influences You get nostalgia and adventure all in one slice

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, the cheesecake can be chilled overnight, making it ideal for preparing in advance. Add the bananas and rum glaze just before serving for best texture.

→ Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely. Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits to create a different flavor profile for the base.

→ How do I caramelize the bananas perfectly?

Sauté thick banana slices in butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring gently until they become golden and sticky but not mushy.

→ Is the rum glaze suitable for kids?

Most of the rum simmers off during cooking, but for a non-alcoholic version, substitute dark rum with apple or pineapple juice.

→ What is the best way to serve this cheesecake?

Serve chilled, topped with freshly caramelized bananas and plenty of warm rum glaze. Extra glaze can be offered on the side for drizzling.