No-Bake Banana Split Cake

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This No-Bake Banana Split Cake offers the nostalgic taste of a traditional banana split in a convenient, easy-to-make cake form. With no baking required, it’s ideal for warm days when you want to keep the kitchen cool. The combination of creamy layers, fresh bananas, pineapple, and strawberries, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup, makes this dessert both refreshing and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Unsalted butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cream cheese
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Heavy cream
  • Bananas
  • Crushed pineapple
  • Strawberries
  • Whipped cream
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans
  • Chocolate syrup
  • Maraschino cherries

Directions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in whipped heavy cream until well incorporated. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
    Jo Cooks
  3. Layer the Fruit: Arrange sliced bananas in a single layer over the cream cheese filling. Evenly spread drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
  4. Add the Topping: Spread whipped cream over the fruit layers. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and garnish with maraschino cherries.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 to 16 servings, depending on portion size.
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Chilling Time: At least 4 hours
  • Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes

Variations

  • Crust Alternatives: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or chocolate cookie crumbs for a different flavor profile.
  • Fruit Options: Incorporate other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches to customize the dessert to your liking.
  • Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts if you have allergies, or replace them with toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
    Easy Budget Recipes

FAQs

What is a No-Bake Banana Split Cake?

A No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a layered dessert that combines the flavors of a traditional banana split—bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and chocolate—into a cake form without the need for baking. It typically features a graham cracker crust, creamy filling, fruit layers, and is topped with whipped cream and nuts.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, allowing it to chill overnight helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown?

To prevent sliced bananas from browning, you can dip them in pineapple juice or a mixture of lemon juice and water before layering them in the dessert. This adds flavor and helps maintain their color.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream can be used in place of store-bought whipped topping. Ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks to maintain the dessert’s structure.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this cake?

Yes, by substituting the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or gluten-free graham crackers, you can make this dessert gluten-free.

What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs for the crust?

Crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or chocolate cookies can be used as alternatives to graham cracker crumbs, offering different flavor variations.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 1-2 days. For longer storage,

Leave a Comment