Easy No-Bake Banana Split Cake – A Refreshing and Delicious Dessert

This Easy No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a simple, refreshing dessert that combines the flavors of a classic banana split into a delicious, no-bake cake. With a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of creamy filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, and a generous topping of whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and nuts, it’s a perfect treat for summer parties, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something sweet. The best part? It requires no baking, making it easy to prepare and great for busy days.

This recipe yields 12 slices, making it ideal for a crowd, and can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, potluck, or simply want a chilled dessert to enjoy at home, this cake will surely be a hit. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dessert!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

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

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 4-5 bananas, sliced
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups whipped topping
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium-sized bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir the mixture until the crumbs are fully coated and the ingredients are well combined. Once mixed, transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and press it down firmly to create an even crust. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling to help it set and hold together better when slicing.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. To avoid lumps, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Once smooth, fold in 1 cup of whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) and continue mixing gently until everything is well combined. This mixture will form the first creamy layer of your cake.

Step 3: Add the Fruit Layers

Next, arrange 4-5 sliced bananas in a single layer on top of the chilled crust. You can slightly overlap the slices to make them fit neatly. Once the bananas are arranged, spread the drained crushed pineapple (20 oz can) evenly over the bananas. The pineapple will add a tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy layers and the bananas.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping

Spread a generous layer of whipped topping (2 cups) evenly over the pineapple layer. This will give your cake a light, fluffy texture and will serve as a base for the final toppings. Make sure the whipped topping is evenly spread to cover the entire surface.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Chill

Drizzle 1/4 cup of chocolate syrup over the whipped topping, ensuring a decorative pattern across the surface. If desired, sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. Finish off by garnishing with maraschino cherries for that classic banana split look. Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, so that it can chill and set. Once the cake is fully chilled, slice it into squares, serve, and enjoy!

COOKING Note:

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
• For a smoother consistency in the filling, use a hand mixer or stand mixer.
• Don’t skip refrigerating the cake for at least 2 hours; this will help the layers set properly and make it easier to slice.
• The addition of chopped nuts is optional but adds a great crunch to balance the creamy textures. If you’re serving this for a crowd, consider adding them, especially if you enjoy a nutty flavor with your desserts.

Serving Suggestions:

• This banana split cake is a perfect summer dessert for picnics, barbecues, or birthday parties. Serve it as a refreshing treat after a heavy meal.
• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a super indulgent dessert experience.
• If you’re looking to make it extra festive, add a drizzle of caramel sauce or extra fresh fruit on top before serving.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, try adding a layer of sliced strawberries along with the bananas. This will give the cake an additional burst of color and flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• You can make this cake a day ahead, which makes it an ideal dessert for busy weekends or when entertaining guests.
• To make the crust more flavorful, use cinnamon graham crackers or add a pinch of cinnamon to the crust mixture.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Chilling Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 12

Nutritional Information (per slice):

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 170mg

FAQS:

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes! You can replace the bananas or add other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just make sure to drain any extra liquid from the fruit to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. In fact, it’s best to let it chill for at least a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use other types of cookie crumbs like vanilla wafer crumbs or chocolate cookie crumbs. Just make sure the crumbs are finely crushed to hold together well.

Conclusion

The Easy No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delicious and hassle-free dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of a banana split in a creamy, no-bake cake. With a simple graham cracker crust, layers of fresh fruit, creamy fillings, and a whipped topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, this dessert will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy hosts. Enjoy!