Description
This delightful No-Bake Banana Split Cake combines the classic flavors of a banana split dessert in an easy-to-make, creamy, layered cake without the need for baking. Featuring a crisp graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese and whipped cream filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, chocolate chips, and optional maraschino cherries, it’s a refreshing and delicious treat perfect for warm days or quick gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings and Layers
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (optional)
- Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix well, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream together with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream is light and fluffy.
- Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, blending carefully to keep the mixture light and fluffy without deflating the whipped cream.
- Layer the fruit and filling: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, followed by a layer of drained crushed pineapple. Then, spread the cream cheese and whipped cream filling evenly over the fruit layers.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly over the top of the filling. If using, add chopped maraschino cherries for an extra burst of color and flavor.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing it to set properly and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, top the cake with additional whipped cream as desired. Slice and enjoy this creamy, fruity dessert.
Notes
- For best results, chill the cake overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop and the filling to set properly.
- Ensure bananas are ripe but firm to prevent them from becoming mushy in the cake.
- You can substitute crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple chunks for a fresher taste.
- Maraschino cherries are optional but add a classic banana split touch.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- To make a dairy-free version, consider using non-dairy cream cheese and coconut whipping cream substitutes.
