No-Bake Banana Split Cake

by

This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delicious layered dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy filling, fresh fruit, and classic banana split toppings. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for summer parties, family gatherings, or any time you crave a refreshing, nostalgic dessert. Best of all, no oven is required!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No baking required – Ideal for warm weather when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
  • Perfectly layered flavors – A delicious combination of crunchy crust, creamy filling, and fresh fruit.
  • Easy to prepare – Simple steps make it great for both beginner and experienced bakers.
  • Crowd-pleaser – A favorite at potlucks, barbecues, and holiday gatherings.
  • Customizable – You can easily swap or add ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 container of whipped topping)

For the Layers:

  • 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
  • 1½ cups strawberries, diced

For the Toppings:

  • 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
  • ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • Chocolate syrup or hot fudge (for drizzling)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Crust:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly moistened.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes while preparing the filling.

Make the Filling:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.

Assemble the Layers:

  1. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust.
  2. Layer the sliced bananas on top of the filling.
  3. Spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the bananas.
  4. Add a layer of diced strawberries on top.

Add the Toppings:

  1. Spread whipped cream or whipped topping over the top layer.
  2. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, drizzle with chocolate syrup or hot fudge, and garnish with maraschino cherries, if desired.

Chill and Serve:

  1. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
  2. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add a layer of chocolate pudding between the cream cheese filling and bananas.
  • Nut-Free Version: Simply omit the nuts for those with allergies.
  • Extra Fruity: Add blueberries or raspberries for more color and flavor.
  • Graham Cracker Alternative: Use crushed Oreos or vanilla wafer cookies for a different crust flavor.
  • Healthier Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese and light whipped topping.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this dessert for up to a month. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
  • Serving from Frozen: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make this dessert?

You can make it up to 24 hours in advance for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use crushed Oreos, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies as a base.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can be used for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Do I have to use whipped cream on top?

No, you can leave it off or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make this in a smaller portion?

Yes, halve the recipe and prepare it in an 8×8-inch dish.

What’s the best way to prevent bananas from browning?

Toss the banana slices in a little lemon or pineapple juice before layering them.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to drain any excess juice to prevent the dessert from getting soggy.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.

Can I add a chocolate layer?

Absolutely! Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache or pudding between the cream cheese and banana layers.

What toppings can I use instead of nuts?

Try shredded coconut, sprinkles, or crushed cookies for extra crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

No-Bake Banana Split Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. With its layers of creamy filling, fresh fruit, and delicious toppings, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a refreshing, no-bake dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!

Print
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A slice of No-Bake Banana Split Cake topped with bananas, cherries, chocolate shavings, and walnuts on a white plate.

No-Bake Banana Split Cake

  • Author: Chef Clara
  • Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy this No-Bake Banana Split Cake, layered with creamy filling, bananas, berries, nuts, and chocolate drizzle an effortless, crowd-pleasing dessert!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 container of whipped topping)

For the Layers:

3–4 ripe bananas, sliced

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained

1½ cups strawberries, diced

For the Toppings:

1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping

¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)

Chocolate syrup or hot fudge (for drizzling)

Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly moistened.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes while preparing the filling.

Make the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.

Assemble the Layers:

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust.

Layer the sliced bananas on top of the filling.

Spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the bananas.

Add a layer of diced strawberries on top.

Add the Toppings:

Spread whipped cream or whipped topping over the top layer.

Sprinkle with chopped nuts, drizzle with chocolate syrup or hot fudge, and garnish with maraschino cherries, if desired.

Chill and Serve:

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Chill well – Refrigerate the No-Bake Banana Split Cake for at least 4 hours to set properly.
  • Add toppings last – Garnish with fresh fruit, nuts, and chocolate drizzle just before serving for the best texture.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: No-Bake,
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: No-Bake Banana Split Cake