Caramelized Banana Cheesecake with Rum Glaze is the kind of dessert that feels luxurious yet comforting at the same time. It blends the rich creaminess of classic baked cheesecake with the deep sweetness of caramelized bananas and finishes with a warm, glossy rum glaze that elevates every bite. This dessert sits perfectly at the intersection of indulgence and nostalgia, making it ideal for holidays, special gatherings, or whenever an elevated dessert is needed.

Bananas have long been associated with comfort desserts, but when they are slowly caramelized in butter and brown sugar, they transform into something far more complex. Their natural sweetness deepens, their texture becomes silky, and their flavor pairs beautifully with the tang of cream cheese. Add a smooth rum glaze on top, and the result is a dessert that feels restaurant-quality yet approachable enough for a home kitchen.

This cheesecake is baked, not no-bake, giving it structure and richness without heaviness. The base is a classic buttery crust that supports the creamy filling while adding a subtle crunch. Each layer is carefully balanced so no single element overwhelms the others.

Why Caramelized Bananas Work So Well in Cheesecake

Caramelization enhances the natural sugars found in bananas, creating a deeper flavor profile with hints of toffee and vanilla. When folded into a cheesecake filling, caramelized bananas add moisture, sweetness, and aroma without watering down the batter. This technique also prevents the cheesecake from tasting raw or overly fruity.

Rum, used sparingly in the glaze, adds warmth and complexity. Its flavor complements banana perfectly, echoing traditional desserts like bananas foster while staying subtle enough to appeal to a wide audience.

Ingredients

Crust

Graham cracker crumbs
Melted unsalted butter
Brown sugar

Caramelized Bananas

Ripe bananas, sliced
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Vanilla extract

Cheesecake Filling

Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs, room temperature
Sour cream
Vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Rum Glaze

Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Heavy cream
Dark rum
Vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a springform pan and line the base with parchment paper.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add sliced bananas and brown sugar. Cook until bananas soften and caramelize. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Cool slightly.
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed. Blend in sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
Gently fold caramelized bananas into the cheesecake batter.
Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–60 minutes until the center is slightly set but still jiggles.
Turn off oven, crack the door, and allow cheesecake to cool gradually for 1 hour.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare rum glaze by melting butter and brown sugar together. Add cream and simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in rum and vanilla.
Pour warm rum glaze over chilled cheesecake before serving.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Texture

Always use room-temperature ingredients to avoid lumps.
Mix on low speed once eggs are added to prevent excess air.
Gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
Refrigeration improves flavor and texture dramatically.

Variations and Flavor Twists

Substitute dark rum with spiced rum for deeper warmth.
Add chopped pecans to the crust for crunch.
Use banana-flavored liqueur for a stronger banana profile.
Top with whipped cream for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with coffee, espresso, or black tea. It also works well as a holiday dessert, dinner-party centerpiece, or make-ahead treat for special occasions.

Cultural Inspiration

This dessert draws inspiration from classic banana-based desserts popular in Caribbean and Southern cuisine, where bananas and rum often appear together. The cheesecake format modernizes those flavors into a refined, shareable dessert.