When you think of a banana split, what comes to mind? For me, it’s nostalgia—those carefree summer afternoons spent indulging in creamy ice cream, ripe bananas, tangy pineapple, and sweet chocolate syrup, all topped off with a cherry on top. This No-Bake Banana Split Cake captures all those familiar flavors in a convenient, no-fuss dessert.

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a sweet family treat, this dessert requires no oven, making it ideal for warm days or when you want a quick yet impressive dish. With its layers of creamy filling, fresh fruit, and crunchy nuts, it’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s as much fun to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
• Layered decadence: Combines sweet, creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures in every bite.
• Customizable: You can swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Make-ahead dessert: Prepare it in advance for gatherings or busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), divided

For the Toppings:

• 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup strawberries, diced
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts)
• Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish

How to Make No-Bake Banana Split Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even crust layer. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling to help it set.

Pro Tip: Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly into the pan for a smooth, compact crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully combined and lump-free.

Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping, being careful not to deflate the mixture. This step ensures the cream cheese layer is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Smooth it out with a spatula to create an even layer.

Next, arrange the banana slices evenly over the cream cheese layer. Ensure the bananas cover the surface completely for even distribution of flavor.

Spoon the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, spreading it out to cover the layer. Sprinkle the diced strawberries on top of the pineapple for a burst of color and freshness.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

Gently spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping over the fruit layers, using a spatula to smooth the surface. This step creates a creamy, cloud-like top layer.

Step 5: Garnish

Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the whipped topping for a delightful crunch. Drizzle chocolate syrup across the top in a zigzag pattern for a touch of indulgence. Finally, place maraschino cherries on top to complete the classic banana split look.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld.

When ready to serve, slice the dessert into squares and serve chilled.

Helpful Tips

• Preventing Brown Bananas: Toss banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering to keep them from browning.
• Crust Options: For a twist, swap graham crackers for crushed vanilla wafers or chocolate cookie crumbs.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: If you prefer, whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar to substitute for the whipped topping.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 12-16 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

Notes

• This dessert is best enjoyed within 2-3 days as the bananas may start to soften and brown over time.
• For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with shredded coconut.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving: Calories: 320 | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 180mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What other fruits can I use?
Feel free to experiment with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or even mango slices for a unique twist.

Can I freeze this dessert?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert as the fresh fruit and whipped topping don’t thaw well.

Related Recipes

If you loved this no-bake treat, try these other easy desserts:

• Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake – A Dreamy Dessert Delight!
• Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Conclusion

This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the best elements of a banana split in a refreshing, no-bake format. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just looking for a fun way to treat yourself, this dessert delivers layers of joy in every bite. Grab a fork and dive in—you deserve it!

Print