Description
This no-bake banana split cake combines all the beloved flavors of a classic banana split into one incredible layered dessert. With a graham cracker crust, creamy filling, fresh bananas, strawberries, and chocolate sauce, this easy no-bake dessert is perfect for summer gatherings and requires no baking skills whatsoever!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 whole crackers, finely crushed)
- 1/2 cup melted butter (1 stick, unsalted preferred)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
For the Fruit and Toppings:
- 4–5 ripe bananas (firm but sweet)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained well)
- 1/2 cup chocolate sauce
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (optional)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of prepared pan.
- Make cream layer: Beat cream cheese until fluffy (2-3 minutes). Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beat until smooth. In separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture in three additions.
- Layer the cake: Spread cream mixture evenly over crust. Arrange sliced bananas over cream layer. Add strawberries and drained pineapple in attractive pattern.
- Add toppings: Drizzle chocolate and caramel sauces over fruit. Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly. Place maraschino cherries for garnish.
- Chill: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
Pro Tips:
- Toast walnuts in dry skillet for 3-4 minutes for enhanced flavor
- Brush banana slices with lemon juice to prevent browning
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing
- Chill mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream
- This dessert tastes better when made 24 hours in advance
Storage: Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days. Can freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.
Variations: Try different fruits like blueberries and peaches, or add coconut flakes for tropical flavor.
- Prep Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 285mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: no-bake banana split cake, easy no-bake dessert, banana split cake recipe, summer dessert, layered cake, no bake cake, banana dessert, graham cracker crust, cream cheese dessert, make ahead dessert