If you love the flavors of a classic banana split, this Banana Split Cake is going to be your new favorite dessert! It’s creamy, fruity, and packed with layers of goodness—a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake-like filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, whipped cream, and of course, a drizzle of chocolate with cherries on top! 🍌🍫🍒
This is a no-bake dessert, which makes it perfect for summer, potlucks, or when you need an easy and refreshing treat. Plus, it comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Let’s dive into the best Banana Split Cake recipe!
🛒 Ingredients for Banana Split Cake
For the Crust:
✅ 2 cups graham cracker crumbs – Creates a buttery base.
✅ ½ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Helps hold the crust together.
✅ ¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness.
For the Creamy Layer:
✅ 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – The rich, tangy base of the filling.
✅ 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer.
✅ 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream) – Makes the filling light and fluffy.
For the Toppings:
✅ 3-4 ripe bananas (sliced thinly) – Adds the classic banana split flavor.
✅ 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (drained well) – Brings in tropical sweetness.
✅ 1½ cups strawberries (sliced thinly) – Fresh and juicy.
✅ 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans – Adds crunch.
✅ 1½ cups whipped cream – Fluffy and creamy topping.
✅ Chocolate syrup – For that perfect drizzle.
✅ Maraschino cherries – A must for the final touch!
🥄 How to Make Banana Split Cake
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a firm crust. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheesecake Layer
Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread this creamy layer over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Layer the Fruit & Toppings
Place a layer of sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
Spread the whipped cream over the fruit layers, then sprinkle with chopped nuts. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and top with maraschino cherries for the perfect finish.
Step 5: Chill & Serve!
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
🔬 The Science Behind Their Unique Texture
This dessert is all about layers of contrasting textures:
🍪 Crunchy Crust – The graham cracker crust adds a buttery, firm base.
🥄 Creamy Cheesecake Layer – The whipped cream and cream cheese make it smooth and velvety. 🍌 Soft Banana Slices – Adds a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
🍍 Juicy Pineapple & Strawberries – A refreshing, fruity burst.
🌰 Crunchy Nuts – Adds a slight crunch for contrast.
The no-bake method keeps everything light, airy, and perfectly set without drying out the ingredients.
✨ The Magic of Banana Split Cake
What makes this Banana Split Cake so special?
🍌 No Baking Required – Perfect for summer or when you don’t want to turn on the oven!
🍒 Packed with Fresh Fruit – A great way to enjoy bananas, strawberries, and pineapple.
🍫 Chocolate & Whipped Cream Combo – A classic, indulgent touch.
⏳ Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Every bite tastes just like a banana split, but in cake form!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your Banana Split Cake with:
☕ Iced Coffee or Vanilla Latte – A refreshing drink to complement the creamy flavors.
🍦 Extra Ice Cream – Because you can never have too much!
🍫 More Chocolate Drizzle – For an even richer dessert experience.
🍓 Fresh Berries – To add more natural sweetness.
❄️ Storage & Freezing Tips
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown slightly, but the flavor will remain delicious!
Freezing: Freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re worried about the bananas browning, lightly coat them in lemon juice before layering.
❓ FAQ – Your Banana Split Cake Questions Answered!
❓ Can I use a different crust? Yes! You can substitute the graham cracker crust with an Oreo cookie crust or vanilla wafer crust.
❓ Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes better when made the night before, allowing the flavors to meld together.
❓ What’s the best way to slice this cake? Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfect slices.
❓ Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Just use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
❓ What can I use instead of Cool Whip? You can substitute with homemade whipped cream by whipping 1½ cups of heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar.
🏆 Conclusion
This Banana Split Cake is the ultimate easy, no-bake dessert that brings together all the flavors of a classic banana split in a creamy, refreshing cake form. With its layers of graham cracker crust, creamy filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and whipped cream, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Make it today and enjoy a slice of sweet nostalgia with every bite! 🍌🍫🍒
