Description
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful, layered dessert that combines the classic flavors of a banana split into an easy-to-make, chilled cake. Featuring a graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, cherry pie filling, nuts, and a chocolate drizzle, this dessert requires no baking and is perfect for warm days or when you want a fuss-free treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip), divided
Layers and Toppings
- 4-5 bananas, sliced
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined to create a uniform, moist mixture that will hold together well as a crust.
- Form the crust layer: Press the graham cracker crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form the crust base of your cake.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Combine with whipped topping: Fold 2 cups of the whipped topping gently into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it and add volume.
- Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust layer.
- Add banana and pineapple layers: Arrange sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer, then spread the drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas for a tropical twist.
- Top with remaining whipped topping: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping over the pineapple layer to add creaminess and balance the flavors.
- Add cherry topping: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the whipped topping layer to create a vibrant, fruity topping.
- Sprinkle nuts: Evenly sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added texture and a nutty flavor.
- Decorate with chocolate and cherries: Drizzle chocolate syrup over the dessert and garnish with maraschino cherries for that classic banana split look and sweetness.
- Chill the cake: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow layers to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled: Slice the cake into 12 servings and enjoy chilled for best texture and taste.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- Use fresh bananas to avoid browning; add them just before chilling.
- For a nut-free option, simply omit the nuts or replace with toasted coconut flakes.
- Chocolate syrup can be substituted with melted chocolate or fudge sauce for extra richness.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead, which enhances the flavors and texture.
