Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful dessert made with layers of graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, and topped with fluffy whipped cream. It’s garnished with cherries and chocolate syrup, making it look just like a banana split. This dessert is incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any baking, making it perfect for hot summer days or when you need a low-effort treat for a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Layers:
- 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzle
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the back of a measuring cup to press it down firmly. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
3. Assemble the Layers
- Spread Filling: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
- Add Bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Add Pineapple: Evenly spread the drained crushed pineapple over the banana layer.
4. Add Whipped Topping
- Spread Whipped Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the pineapple layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
5. Garnish
- Garnish: Sprinkle the top with chopped walnuts or pecans if desired. Garnish with maraschino cherries and drizzle with chocolate syrup.
6. Chill and Serve
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Cooking Notes
- Drain Pineapple Well: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid adding excess moisture, which could make the dessert too soggy.
- Chill Time: For best results, chill the dessert for at least 4 hours to ensure the layers are well set and flavors have melded together.
Variations
- Strawberry Addition: Add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries on top of the pineapple for more fruit flavor.
- Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for a richer, chocolatey base.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add 1/4 cup peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture for a nutty flavor that pairs well with the bananas and chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make No-Bake Banana Split Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it 1-2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. In fact, chilling it overnight allows the flavors to develop even more.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may start to brown slightly, but the dessert will still taste delicious.
Can I freeze No-Bake Banana Split Cake?
Freezing is not recommended as the fresh fruit and cream cheese filling may not retain their texture after thawing.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can use fresh whipped cream. Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then spread it over the pineapple layer.
What can I serve with No-Bake Banana Split Cake?
This dessert is great on its own, but you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Extra chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, or crushed cookies also make delicious additions.
No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a refreshing, easy-to-make dessert that captures all the best flavors of a classic banana split. With layers of creamy filling, fresh fruit, and a graham cracker crust, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for summer parties or as a special treat, this no-bake cake is simple, fruity, and delicious.
Try this recipe for a fun and flavorful twist on the classic banana split!
