Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Fantasy

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Description:

Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Fantasy is a decadent no-bake cheesecake made with a creamy, velvety filling and topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and bananas. The sweetness of the fruit balances perfectly with the tangy cream cheese filling, creating an irresistible combination. The crust is buttery and crisp, making this dessert both light and indulgent at the same time.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the Fruit Topping:

  • 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 2 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling over the fruit)
  • Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined and resembles wet sand.
  • Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan or pie dish. Use the back of a spoon to compact the crust tightly.
  • Refrigerate the crust for about 30 minutes to set.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

  • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until soft peaks form.
  • Gradually fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. If desired, you can add the powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
  • Once combined, pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and spread it into an even layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.

3. Chill the Cheesecake:

  • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to firm up and set completely.

4. Prepare the Fruit Topping:

  • Just before serving, arrange the sliced strawberries and bananas over the top of the cheesecake in a decorative pattern.
  • Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness if desired. You can also garnish with a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

5. Serve:

  • Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, or slice directly from the pie dish. Serve chilled.

Tips for Success:

  • Fruit Freshness: Use ripe but firm fruit to prevent it from becoming mushy on top of the cheesecake. Strawberries and bananas are best when they’re in season, but you can make this cheesecake with frozen fruit if necessary—just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture.
  • No-Bake Tip: If you want a more sturdy cheesecake, you can also incorporate gelatin to help the filling set more firmly. To do this, dissolve 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin in 2 tablespoons of warm water, then add it to the cream cheese mixture before chilling.
  • Alternative Toppings: You can mix up the fruit topping by adding other berries, like blueberries or raspberries, or even a layer of fruit preserves for extra sweetness.

Recommendations:

  • Make-Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld, and the texture will become even better!
  • Storage: Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the fruit topping will last, it’s best to add fresh fruit just before serving to keep it from getting soggy.
  • Serve With: This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a glass of dessert wine, such as a Moscato, or even a cold glass of iced tea.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 12 servings):

  • Calories: 350-400 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbs: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 150mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximations and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion size.)

This Strawberry-Banana Cheesecake Fantasy is a dreamy dessert that’s light, fruity, and creamy all at once. It’s a great way to enjoy cheesecake without the baking fuss and makes for an elegant yet easy-to-make treat that everyone will love! Enjoy!

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