Description
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a fun, fruity dessert layered with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s finished with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, chopped nuts, and maraschino cherries—just like a classic banana split!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Fruit Layers:
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For the Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed (for topping)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layers.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- Add the Fruit Layers:
- Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas.
- Top with sliced strawberries, creating an even layer.
- Add the Final Topping:
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the fruit layer, smoothing it out evenly.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and garnish with maraschino cherries.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
- Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing, no-bake treat!
Notes
- Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Fruit Variations: Add other fruits like blueberries or kiwi for a colorful twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts if serving to those with nut allergies.
- Pro Tip: Pat the pineapple dry with paper towels to prevent the cake from becoming too watery.