If you want to put a jaw-dropping spin on classic cheesecake, brace yourself for the Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze. This recipe is a flavor celebration, layering creamy tangy cheesecake with sticky, golden bananas and an irresistible sheen of boozy rum glaze. From the first bite, the dessert is a burst of tropical richness, buttery crunch, and just enough depth from the dark rum to feel like an occasion. Whether you bake for special events or just want an “excuse” to enjoy leftover cheesecake for brunch, this is the show-stopper that gets friends and family asking for your secret.

Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long list of fussy ingredients for Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze — just a few basics, but each plays a crucial role. Together, they create a dessert that balances creamy, tangy, crunchy, and caramel-sweet in every bite.

Graham cracker crumbs: The classic foundation for a sturdy, slightly sweet crust that lets the filling shine.
Granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to both the crust and the cheesecake filling, keeping flavors bright.
Unsalted butter: Melts with the crumbs to create that irresistible buttery crunch you expect from cheesecake.
Cream cheese: The hero of the filling, bringing that signature creamy, tangy richness to every forkful.
Eggs: These are the structure builders, binding everything together for a silky smooth texture.
Sour cream: Gives the cheesecake its luscious, slightly tangy depth, making each bite luxurious without being heavy.
Vanilla extract: A hint of warmth and floral sweetness that pairs perfectly with bananas and rum.
Ripe bananas: The best bananas are golden and spotty — their natural sweetness turns magical when caramelized.
Brown sugar: The deeper flavor and molasses notes combine beautifully with bananas for a sticky, golden topping.
Dark rum: Just a touch lifts the whole dessert, adding complexity and a grown-up twist to the glaze.
Cornstarch (optional): For those who love a thicker glaze, a dash of cornstarch keeps things perfectly glossy and pourable.

How to Make Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan — I love using the bottom of a glass to get an even, compact layer. Bake the crust for about 8 minutes, then set it aside to cool. This golden, slightly crisp base makes every slice of Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze feel like a treat.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Lower your oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). In a large bowl (or with a stand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese until luxuriously smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and beat until combined, then whisk in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is incorporated before adding the next. Gently fold in the sour cream and vanilla extract, being careful not to overmix. This ensures a dense, velvet-smooth interior. Pour the silky filling over your cooled crust, ready for a slow, gentle bake.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. You’re looking for set edges and a center that jiggles ever-so-slightly when you nudge the pan — that’s the secret to a creamy cheesecake! Once it’s perfect, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest for an hour. This slow cool-down helps prevent cracking. When it’s ready, chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results). The anticipation is real, but so worth it.

Step 4: Caramelize the Bananas

While your cheesecake chills, heat a skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and then stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves and starts to bubble. Add the thick banana slices and cook, flipping once, until beautifully golden, sticky, and caramelized all over. Set aside — these bananas are the highlight, bringing deep fruitiness to your Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze.

Step 5: Prepare the Rum Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until everything is smoothly blended and glossy, then add the dark rum. Let the glaze simmer for 2-3 minutes so the alcohol cooks off, leaving behind that heady, aromatic flavor. Want your glaze thicker? Mix a little cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir it in and fancy yourself a sauce chef as it bubbles into a syrupy pour. Remove from the heat and try very hard not to taste-test with a spoon!

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Arrange the caramelized bananas on top of your chilled cheesecake, letting them overlap or fan out prettily. Drizzle the warm rum glaze generously over the top — some of it will pool into the crevices, which is absolutely intentional. Slice, serve, and watch faces light up as the first bite delivers the wow-factor that makes Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze unforgettable.

How to Serve Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze

Garnishes

A finished Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze already dazzles, but a scatter of toasted pecans or walnuts, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a dollop of whipped cream takes it right over the top. Even a tiny pop of grated dark chocolate or fresh mint leaves can add freshness and visual flair.

Side Dishes

Since the cheesecake is rich and luscious, serve it alongside something light and bright. A simple fruit salad or a few fresh berries balance those decadent caramel notes brilliantly. If you feel extra indulgent, pair each slice with a demitasse of strong espresso or a fruity dessert wine.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dessert into a centerpiece by serving the cheesecake on a decorative cake stand. For parties, cut smaller wedges and offer each with a drizzle of rum glaze in tiny jars so guests can pour their own. Or, serve individual mini cheesecakes in ramekins, each crowned with caramelized bananas and a glossy drizzle — an adorable twist on the classic Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesecake tastes even better the next day! Cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to four days without losing their creamy texture or rich flavor.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual slices (or the whole cheesecake, minus the bananas and glaze) tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before topping with freshly caramelized bananas and rum glaze, so every serving tastes bakery-fresh.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat the whole cake, but if you prefer your caramelized bananas or rum glaze warm, quickly rewarm them in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Pour the warm glaze over your chilled cheesecake for melt-in-your-mouth magic.

FAQs

What’s the best way to prevent cheesecake cracks?

Always let your cheesecake cool slowly after baking by turning off the oven and leaving the door slightly open for an hour. Using room-temperature ingredients also helps ensure a smooth, even bake.

Can I use light cream cheese or sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute lighter versions, but the texture may be a bit less creamy and rich. Full-fat ingredients are classic for the signature decadence of Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze.

Do I have to use rum in the glaze?

While rum brings lovely warmth and complexity, you can substitute with apple juice or just a splash of water for a kid-friendly version. The bananas and brown sugar alone create plenty of flavor!

How ripe should the bananas be?

Go for bananas that are yellow with brown spots; they’re sweet, caramelize beautifully, and hold their shape. Overly mushy bananas can get too soft, while green ones won’t deliver that deep banana flavor.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Absolutely! In fact, making the cheesecake a day ahead gives it time to set and develop flavor. Just add the bananas and rum glaze the day you serve, for the freshest, glossiest finish.

Final Thoughts

If dessert should be fun, unforgettable, and even a bit conversation-starting, Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze checks every box. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this is one recipe you’ll reach for whenever you want to wow the crowd. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the most-requested sweet on your table!