Description

This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful layered dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese topping, and fresh fruit layers inspired by the classic banana split. Easy to assemble and requiring no baking, this chilled cake features bananas, crushed pineapple, strawberries, maraschino cherries, and a whipped topping with optional nuts for added texture. Topped with chocolate syrup and extra cherries, it’s a perfect refreshing treat for summer or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cream Cheese Layer

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided

Fruit Layers

4 ripe bananas, sliced
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained
1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh or drained maraschino cherries

Optional Toppings

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
Extra whipped topping and cherries, for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust layer. Set aside.
Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the whipped topping gently until fully incorporated.
Layer Cream Cheese Mixture: Spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, creating a smooth layer.
Assemble Fruit Layers: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer. Next, spoon the well-drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, followed by an even layer of sliced strawberries and then chopped cherries.
Add Whipped Topping: Carefully spread the remaining whipped topping over the fruit layers to cover them evenly.
Add Nuts (Optional): Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans evenly on top of the whipped topping if using for added crunch.
Chill the Cake: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, drizzle chocolate syrup over the top and garnish with additional whipped topping and cherries as desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

To prevent banana slices from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before layering.
For added texture, try using a shortbread or vanilla wafer crust instead of graham crackers.