Banana Caramel Nut Cheesecake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup sugar

→ Filling

04 - 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
05 - 3/4 cup sugar
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
08 - 2 ripe bananas, mashed
09 - 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
10 - 3/4 cup caramel sauce

→ Garnish

11 - Sliced bananas
12 - Caramel sauce
13 - Whole peanuts

# Instructions:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator to set.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar until smooth. Incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
03 - Pour the filling over the prepared crust. Sprinkle chopped peanuts evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set.
04 - Allow the cheesecake to cool completely. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Garnish with sliced bananas and whole peanuts before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Can use low-fat cream cheese for lighter version
02 - Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days
03 - Can add layer of banana slices between crust and filling