If you are craving a dessert that captures the nostalgic magic of an ice cream parlor classic, the Banana Split Cake Recipe is just what you need. This no-bake beauty layers luscious bananas, fresh strawberries, and crushed pineapples over a crunchy graham cracker crust, all wrapped in creamy pudding and whipped topping. Every bite is a harmonious blend of fruity freshness, smooth creaminess, and just enough crunch to keep your taste buds dancing. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this delight will quickly become one of your go-to crowd-pleasers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple, yet indispensable, working together to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s the buttery graham cracker crust or the fresh fruit, every component brings something special to the table.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: This creates a crisp, buttery base that holds the whole cake together.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the crust.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides a tangy, creamy layer that complements the fruits.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and smooths the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed: Lightens the cream cheese filling and tops the cake with whipped clouds.
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced: The star of the dish, bringing natural sweetness and softness.
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained: Adds juicy tropical flair; draining is key to avoid sogginess.
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Brightens the cake with vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix: Adds creamy thickness and helps the layers set.
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk: Essential for bringing the pudding mix to perfect consistency.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Provides a welcome crunchy texture contrast.
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling: Adds a luscious, chocolate finish that ties everything together.
- Maraschino cherries for garnish: Classic and colorful, these cherries add the finishing festive touch.
How to Make Banana Split Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until everything is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a solid crust. This is the foundation of your cake, so make sure it’s compact and even for the best support of all your layers.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Next, fold in half of the whipped topping gently to keep it light and fluffy. Spread this luscious mixture over your crust, creating a tangy and creamy base that pairs perfectly with the sweet fruits ahead.
Step 3: Layer the Fruit
On top of the cream cheese, layer the sliced bananas evenly. Then, gently spread the thoroughly drained crushed pineapple over the bananas. Finally, add a beautiful layer of fresh sliced strawberries. These vibrant layers of fruit add natural sweetness, moisture, and a beautiful color palette to your cake.
Step 4: Add the Pudding Layer
Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened—this usually takes about two minutes. Spread this creamy and velvety pudding evenly over your fruit layers, which helps to hold everything together and adds that signature smoothness reminiscent of a classic banana split.
Step 5: Top and Garnish
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer to create a fluffy, cloud-like finish. Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly across the top for a pleasant crunch, drizzle with chocolate syrup generously for that indulgent touch, and finally place maraschino cherries on top to brighten and complete your masterpiece.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the cake and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible. This resting time allows all the flavors to marry and the pudding layer to set perfectly, making your Banana Split Cake Recipe ready to impress.
How to Serve Banana Split Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the cake is already garnished with chocolate syrup, nuts, and cherries, you can elevate its presentation by adding extra fresh strawberry slices or a few mint leaves. These little visual touches further enhance the freshness and appeal, making every serving feel like a treat from a fancy dessert bar.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra creamy experience. A light, refreshing fruit salad or a simple cup of coffee can also complement the sweet and creamy layers perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cake in clear glass trifle bowls to showcase all the lovely layers, or use individual dessert cups to personalize servings for guests. You can also cut the cake into smaller squares and serve as bite-sized treats at parties or picnics for easy sharing and enjoyment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Banana Split Cake should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It maintains its delightful texture and flavor for up to 3 days, perfect for savoring a slice or two later without any rush.
Freezing
While you can freeze slices wrapped securely in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container, keep in mind that the texture of fresh fruits and whipped topping might change after thawing. If you choose to freeze, consume within one month for the best taste.
Reheating
This is a no-bake, chilled dessert best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. Simply remove it from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving if it’s been chilled to let it soften slightly for easier slicing and the best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of bananas, strawberries, and pineapple?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with mangoes, blueberries, kiwi, or peaches. Just remember to drain any juicy fruits well to prevent sogginess in the cake layers.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the recipe?
The cream cheese adds a wonderful tang and creamy texture that’s key to balancing the sweetness of the fruit and pudding. However, you can substitute with mascarpone or a thicker Greek yogurt if preferred.
Can this cake be made vegan or dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped topping, and vegan pudding mix, you can definitely adapt this Banana Split Cake Recipe to suit those dietary needs, though texture and flavor will vary slightly.
How long does the Banana Split Cake Recipe last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this cake will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. For best taste and texture, enjoy it within that window.
What is the best way to drain the crushed pineapple?
Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to press out as much liquid as possible. Patting with paper towels also helps. Proper drainage prevents the crust and layers from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Split Cake Recipe is a joyful celebration of flavors and textures that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re planning a summer gathering, a family dessert, or just a sweet indulgence after dinner, it never fails to draw smiles. So go ahead and treat yourself to this layers-of-fruit-and-cream delight—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Banana Split Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing no-bake Banana Split Cake featuring layers of graham cracker crust, creamy cream cheese filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and vanilla pudding, topped with whipped topping, nuts, chocolate syrup, and maraschino cherries. Perfect for a summer dessert that requires minimal prep and no baking.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed (divided)
Fruit Layers
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained thoroughly
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
Toppings
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping to lighten the mixture. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Layer the fruit: Arrange the sliced bananas over the cream cheese layer. Spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly on top of the bananas, followed by a layer of fresh sliced strawberries.
- Prepare and add pudding layer: In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Spread the pudding evenly over the layered fruit.
- Top with whipped topping and garnishes: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly on top, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and garnish with maraschino cherries.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
- For a flavor variation, substitute vanilla pudding with banana or cheesecake pudding mix.
- Omit the nuts for a nut-free version.
