Hey there, fellow dessert lover! I’m Patricia, and I need to tell you about my Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake. This isn’t just any cheesecake – it’s THE cheesecake that changed my entire relationship with no-bake desserts.
I still remember the first time I made this recipe. It was for my sister’s birthday, and honestly? I was terrified. No-bake desserts seemed like such a mystery back then. But when I saw everyone’s faces light up after that first bite… I knew I had something truly special.
This Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake isn’t just a recipe to me – it’s summer afternoons with my kids, last-minute dinner party saves, and that dessert that makes people ask “Can I have the recipe?” every single time.
Why This Cheesecake Changed Everything
Look, I’ve tried A LOT of cheesecake recipes (occupational hazard of being a food blogger). But this one? It hits different. Here’s why this particular recipe is so special:
- No oven stress: Perfect when it’s 90°F outside and you’d rather not heat up the kitchen
- Foolproof formula: I’ve watched complete beginners nail this dessert
- Make-ahead magic: Actually tastes better the next day (trust me on this)
- Kid-approved: My 8-year-old requests this for his birthday every year
- Instagram gold: Those layers are just chef’s kiss
Quick Recipe Facts
What | Details |
---|---|
Active Time | 30 minutes (seriously, that’s it!) |
Chill Time | 4 hours (perfect for making ahead) |
Serves | 8-10 people (or 2 people with no self-control) |
Difficulty | Beginner-friendly |
Best Season | Summer, but I make this dessert year-round |
Shopping Like a Pro
After making this Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake probably 50+ times, here’s what I’ve learned:
For the Best Strawberries:
- Smell them first – they should smell sweet and fruity
- Check the tops – green and fresh, not brown or wilted
- Go local when possible – farmer’s market berries will make your dessert even more special
For Perfect Bananas:
- Yellow with tiny brown spots = perfection for this recipe
- Avoid green tips – they’ll taste starchy
- One day overripe? Even better for flavor
The Cream Situation:
- Buy it the day you’re making it – freshness matters
- Get the good stuff – this isn’t the time for low-fat substitutes
- I learned this the hard way when my first attempt didn’t set properly
Need ingredients in winter? Fresh Direct usually has great quality berries year-round.
What You’ll Need for Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake
Note: I’ve tweaked these amounts slightly based on what actually works best
For the Heavenly Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Tiny pinch of salt (trust me on this one)
For the Fruit Layer:
- 1 perfectly ripe banana, sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Pro tip: Save the prettiest slices for the top!
For the Strawberry Mousse:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream, straight from the fridge
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (the good stuff)
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 1/4 cup warm water
For the Grand Finale:
- More whipped cream
- Your prettiest strawberry and banana slices
- Dark chocolate, grated
Real talk: If you need this to be vegetarian, swap the gelatin for agar-agar. Same amount, works like a charm.

Making Your Dream Cheesecake
Okay, here’s where I walk you through exactly how I make this dessert. I’ve made every mistake possible, so you don’t have to!
Step 1: Creating the Foundation (5 minutes)
Mix your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and that tiny pinch of salt. It should feel like wet sand. Press it into your springform pan – I use my measuring cup to get it super even.
Pop it in the fridge while you prep everything else.
Step 2: Arranging Your Fruit (5 minutes)
This is where you get to be creative! I like to make a little pattern with the bananas and strawberries. My kids always want to help with this part.
Pro tip: Pat your fruit slices dry first – soggy crust is nobody’s friend.
Step 3: The Mousse Magic (15 minutes)
First, dissolve your gelatin in warm water and set it aside to cool.
Now for the fun part – whip that cream! I go until I get stiff peaks, but not a second longer (learned that one the hard way when I basically made butter).
Gently fold in your strawberry puree and vanilla. Then – and this is crucial – make sure your gelatin has cooled before adding it. Hot gelatin + cold cream = disaster.
The folding technique matters here. Be gentle, like you’re tucking a baby into bed.
Step 4: The Waiting Game (4 hours)
Pour that gorgeous mousse over your fruit layer and pop it back in the fridge. This is the hardest part because it smells amazing and you want to dig in immediately.
I usually make this in the morning for dinner that night.
Step 5: The Grand Reveal
When it’s set (it should jiggle just slightly), remove it from the pan. Add your whipped cream, arrange your prettiest fruit on top, and grate some chocolate over everything.
My Biggest Mistakes (So You Don’t Make Them)
Let me save you some heartache by sharing what NOT to do:
Temperature Troubles:
- The gelatin was too hot when I added it once – completely deflated my mousse
- Room temperature cream doesn’t whip properly – keep it COLD
Timing Issues:
- Not chilling long enough – I was impatient once and ended up with strawberry soup
- Adding fruit that wasn’t dry – learned this one the soggy way
Technique Failures:
- Over-mixing the mousse – gentle folding is key
- Not tasting as I go – adjust sweetness to your liking!
For more gelatin tips that actually work, check out America’s Test Kitchen guide.
Serving Your Creation
This dessert is pretty perfect on its own, but here’s how I make it extra special:
My Go-To Pairings:
- A glass of prosecco for special occasions
- Strong coffee to balance the sweetness
- Vanilla ice cream when I’m feeling indulgent
Presentation Tips I’ve Learned:
- Warm knife trick – dip in hot water between cuts
- Individual plates – chill them first for restaurant vibes
- Fresh mint garnish – smells amazing and looks professional
Storage Secrets of Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake
Storage Reality Check:
This keeps in the fridge for about 5 days, covered. Though honestly, it’s usually gone in 2 days at my house.
Leftover Magic:
- Cheesecake parfaits – layer pieces with fresh berries
- Milkshake base – blend with vanilla ice cream
- Breakfast treat – small piece with morning coffee (don’t judge me)
FAQs About This Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake
“Can I really skip the gelatin?”
Absolutely! Use agar-agar instead. Same amount, just dissolve it in hot water first. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
“My mousse isn’t setting – help!”
This usually happens when:
- The cream wasn’t cold enough
- The gelatin was too hot when added
- Not enough chill time (patience, grasshopper!)
“Can I use frozen strawberries?”
Yes! Just thaw them completely and drain really well. The flavor might be slightly less intense, but it totally works.
“I don’t have a springform pan – now what?”
Line a regular cake pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Works perfectly!
“How far ahead can I make this?”
Up to 3 days ahead. It actually tastes better after sitting overnight – the flavors meld beautifully.
“Can I make individual portions?”
Yes! Use 4-inch springform pans or glasses. So cute and perfect for parties.
Essential Equipment of Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake
Absolutely Need:
- 9-inch springform pan – makes removal so much easier
- Electric mixer – hand mixer works fine, stand mixer is luxurious
- Good rubber spatula – for that gentle folding technique
Nice to Have:
- Food processor for graham crackers (but a rolling pin works too)
- Fine-mesh strainer for the smoothest puree
- Microplane grater for chocolate (game-changer)
More Amazing Recipes You’ll Love
If this Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake hits the spot, try these favorites:
Final Thoughts
You know what I love most about this Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake? It’s not just about the dessert itself – it’s about the moments it creates. The anticipation while it chills, the “wow” when you remove it from the pan, the satisfied sighs after that first bite.
I’ve made this for first dates (bold move, but it worked), birthday parties, random Tuesday afternoons when life felt too serious, and countless family gatherings. Each time, it reminds me why I fell in love with cooking in the first place.
So go ahead, give it a try. Make it your own. Maybe add a hint of lemon zest, or try it with raspberries instead. And when people ask for the recipe (because they will), don’t forget to share the story too.
Happy cooking, friends. Can’t wait to hear about your version! Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Based on 234 reviews from readers like you)
Made this recipe? Tag me @patriciajannet – I love seeing your creations!
Last updated: Today, because I literally just made this again

Heavenly Strawberry Banana Bliss Cheesecake
Description
This cheesecake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors that brings together the timeless duo of strawberries and bananas. Originating from the creative minds of home bakers, this recipe has evolved into a beloved treat shared across family gatherings and festive occasions. As a child, I remember the joy these flavors brought me, especially when blended into a smooth, creamy cheesecake that seemed almost too beautiful to eat.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- For the banana and strawberry layer:
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- For the strawberry mousse:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon gelatin, dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water
- For the topping:
- Whipped cream
- Sliced strawberries and bananas
- Grated chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Arrange the fruit layer: Evenly distribute banana and strawberry slices over the crust.
- Make the strawberry mousse: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fold in pureed strawberries and dissolved gelatin. Pour over the fruit layer in the crust.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Decorate: Top with whipped cream, additional strawberry and banana slices, and grated chocolate before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially the heavy cream, are cold to help achieve the perfect mousse texture.
- For a firmer mousse, let the gelatin mixture cool slightly before folding into the cream.