Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts

Name: Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 hearts
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup chocolate syrup; 1/4 cup strawberry syrup; Chopped nuts (optional); Maraschino cherries, for garnish; 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup melted butter

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely love bringing a twist to classic desserts, and these Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts are a perfect example. Combining the flavors of a traditional banana split with the creamy richness of cheesecake, this treat is both fun and indulgent. I’ve crafted them into heart shapes for a touch of whimsy, making them ideal for celebrations or simple cravings. With the balanced sweetness of ripe bananas and a creamy filling, these little delights will surely steal the show at any gathering while being easy to make at home!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:58:27.432Z

Creating these Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts was a delightful experience. I wanted to capture the essence of a classic dessert that brings back fond memories from childhood. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also appeals to the eyes, making it a perfect centerpiece on any dessert table.

While experimenting with the cheesecake mixture, I found that blending the cream cheese with bananas enhances the overall flavor, making it incredibly rich and satisfying. By adding a swirl of chocolate and strawberry toppings, I managed to bring that nostalgic banana split flavor directly into each bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh banana goodness
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Adorable heart shapes perfect for special occasions

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component in the Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts serves a unique purpose that contributes to the overall harmony of flavors. The cream cheese provides the rich, creamy base that binds everything together, while the heavy whipping cream adds a light and airy texture. It's important to whip the cream until stiff peaks form—this will help the filling maintain its structure once chilled. If you’d like to lighten the recipe, consider using Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt, but be aware that the texture may differ slightly.

The choice of toppings can be as crucial as the base. While traditional banana splits often feature hot fudge and fresh fruit, pairing chocolate and strawberry syrups with nuts brings a balanced sweetness and crunch. Choosing ripe bananas not only enhances the flavor, but it also ensures a smoother cheesecake filling. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use banana puree instead, but remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly since it’s often sweeter than fresh bananas.

Crafting the Perfect Crust

For the crust, it's essential to combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter thoroughly. Use a fork or your hands to ensure an even distribution of butter and a cohesive mixture. Press it firmly into the molds; this helps the crust hold together better when you remove the hearts post-chilling. If you prefer an alternative to graham crackers, consider using crushed Oreo cookies or digestive biscuits for a chocolatey twist.

When baking the crust, if you choose to bake it for added flavor and texture, do so at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Keep an eye on it as ovens can vary, and a perfectly baked crust should not exceed a golden hue to avoid a dry texture. Allow it to cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling—this step is crucial to prevent melting and achieving the perfect layering.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts:

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Toppings

1/4 cup chocolate syrup
1/4 cup strawberry syrup
Chopped nuts (optional)
Maraschino cherries, for garnish

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup melted butter

Make sure to have everything handy before you start creating these delightful cheesecake hearts!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts:

Prepare the Crust

Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into heart-shaped molds or a lined baking dish to form the crust.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and mashed banana until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

Assemble the Hearts

Spoon the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.

Add Toppings

Once chilled, remove the hearts from the molds, drizzle with chocolate and strawberry syrup, and sprinkle with nuts if desired. Top with a Maraschino cherry for a finishing touch.

Enjoy these delightful banana split cheesecake hearts with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the cheesecake filling or using crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Banana Split Cheesecake Hearts are excellent make-ahead desserts. You can prepare them up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Ensure they are covered well to prevent any absorption of odors, which could alter their delightful flavor. Before serving, top with the syrups and nuts to maintain their visual appeal and texture—it keeps the toppings from getting soggy.

If you happen to have leftovers, these treats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, for the best experience, enjoy them within two days. Avoid freezing them, as the cream cheese filling may change in texture and become watery upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

These heart-shaped delights are perfect for celebrations like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries, and they also work wonderfully for casual family gatherings. To elevate your presentation, serve on a platter lined with fresh banana slices and drizzled syrups. A dollop of whipped cream alongside each heart adds a touch of elegance and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the cheesecake.

Feel free to customize your toppings based on personal preference or the season. Fresh strawberries or crushed pineapple can make fantastic alternatives to the syrups, offering a lighter, fruitier finish. Additionally, if you’re catering to a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and using a larger rectangular pan to create square slices—this makes serving easier and more fun!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fruit instead of banana?

Absolutely! You can experiment with strawberries, raspberries, or any fruit of your choice.

→ How long do these desserts last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Using heavy cream helps achieve a light and fluffy texture, but you can substitute with a lighter cream if preferred.

→ Can I omit the crust?

While the crust adds great texture, you can absolutely make a crustless version if you're looking for a lighter option.