If you love banana splits and easy, no-bake desserts, then this No-Bake Banana Split Cake is about to become your new favorite treat! It has layers of creamy goodness, fresh fruit, and a buttery graham cracker crust, making it the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you crave a sweet and refreshing treat.
Why Youβll Love This No-Bake Banana Split Cake
β No Oven Required β Perfect for warm days when you donβt want to heat up the kitchen!
β Super Creamy & Fruity β A luscious mix of cream cheese, whipped topping, bananas, and pineapple.
β Easy to Make β Just layer, chill, and enjoy!
β Crowd-Pleaser β Everyone will love this classic, nostalgic dessert.
What Does No-Bake Banana Split Cake Taste Like?
This dessert has the flavors of a classic banana split, with a buttery graham cracker crust, rich and creamy filling, and fresh fruit adding a sweet and tangy contrast. The whipped topping, chocolate drizzle, and cherries on top bring everything together for a fun and decadent treat!
Ingredients Youβll Need
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs β For a sweet, buttery base.
- Β½ cup unsalted butter, melted β Helps hold the crust together.
- ΒΌ cup granulated sugar β Adds a touch of sweetness.
For the Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened β The rich, creamy base.
- Β½ cup powdered sugar β Sweetens and smooths out the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract β Enhances the flavor.
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed β Lightens up the filling.
For the Layers:
- 3β4 ripe bananas, sliced π β Adds a naturally sweet and creamy texture.
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained π β For a tangy, tropical flavor.
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced π β Fresh and juicy!
For the Toppings:
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), for topping
- Β½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) β For crunch.
- Β½ cup chocolate syrup or hot fudge β For that banana split touch!
- Maraschino cherries π β A classic finishing touch!
How to Make No-Bake Banana Split Cake
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Refrigerate for 15β20 minutes while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping (Cool Whip) until fully combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Arrange a layer of sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the drained crushed pineapple on top.
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries for extra flavor and color.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the fruit layers.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup or hot fudge for that classic banana split flavor.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using).
- Top each slice with a maraschino cherry for the perfect finishing touch!
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results) to allow the layers to set.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy this cool, creamy, and fruity dessert! π°β¨
What to Serve with No-Bake Banana Split Cake
π¨ With a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream β For an extra indulgent treat.
πͺ With a side of crunchy cookies β Like vanilla wafers or shortbread.
β With a cup of coffee or tea β A delightful way to balance the sweetness.
Pro Tips for the Best Banana Split Cake
β Use ripe but firm bananas β Overripe bananas can become mushy.
β Drain the pineapple well β Too much liquid can make the dessert watery.
β Chill overnight for best results β The flavors meld together beautifully!
β For a firmer filling β Add Β½ cup more powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture.
β Make it extra fancy β Pipe swirls of whipped cream on top before adding the cherries.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerator:
- Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
- Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- Thaw in the fridge for several hours before serving.
Make-Ahead:
- This dessert is perfect for making ahead! Prep it the night before and let it chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this without Cool Whip?
Yes! You can use homemade whipped cream (beat 1 Β½ cups of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form).
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! Try a vanilla wafer crust or a chocolate cookie crust for a fun twist.
Can I add other fruits?
Yes! Blueberries, raspberries, or even mango slices would be delicious.
What if I donβt have a 9×13 pan?
You can make individual servings in cups or use an 8×8 pan for a smaller batch.
Can I make this without nuts?
Of course! Simply omit them or replace them with crushed cookies or sprinkles.
Final Thoughts on No-Bake Banana Split Cake
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a fun, easy, and crowd-pleasing dessert that combines classic banana split flavors with creamy, dreamy layers. Whether youβre making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because you deserve something sweet, itβs guaranteed to be a hit!
Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments! And donβt forget to share your delicious creation on Pinterest! πππ°β¨