If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that instantly transports you to ice cream parlors and sunny summer days, the Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake has your name written all over it! This blissful creation takes all the iconic flavors of a classic banana split—banana, pineapple, strawberry, chocolate, and nuts—then tucks them into a dreamy, creamy, chilled cheesecake that requires zero oven time. Each slice is a joyful bite of nostalgia and newness, perfect for gatherings but easy enough to make just because.

Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake lies in its simple, everyday ingredients, each lending a special touch to the final masterpiece. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the billowy whipped topping and pops of fruit, every component brings joy, texture, and color to your dessert table.

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the irresistibly crunchy, classic cheesecake base, holding everything together and adding a warm toasty flavor.
Granulated sugar: Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the crust and keep it from being too crumbly.
Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust and adds a luxurious richness that makes each bite melt in your mouth.
Ripe bananas, sliced: The first fruity layer, creating that signature banana split flavor and a creamy bite.
Cream cheese, softened: The heart of any cheesecake, providing a smooth, tangy foundation that’s essential for lushness.
Powdered sugar: Ensures your cheesecake filling is sweet but ultra-creamy, with no graininess at all.
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Adds lightness and a pillowy texture to your filling—plus, no whipping required!
Crushed pineapple, well-drained: Offers a sunny burst of tropical juiciness, but be sure to drain thoroughly to keep things firm.
Strawberries, sliced: Lend gorgeous color, juicy tang, and that pop of fresh berry goodness.
Mini chocolate chips: For sprinkling little pockets of melty chocolate surprise throughout your slice.
Chopped walnuts or pecans: Add irresistible crunch and a nutty finish, perfectly complementing the creamy base.
Maraschino cherries for garnish: No banana split is complete without these bright, festive jewels on top!

How to Make Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Step 1: Build the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Start by grabbing a medium bowl, where you’ll combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix them together until the texture resembles wet sand and everything is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan, making sure to get into the corners for a solid, even layer. This crust gives the Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake its sturdy, delicious foundation.

Step 2: Add Bananas for the Classic Split Flavor

Arrange the banana slices in a single, even layer over the crust. Choose bananas that are perfectly ripe for the sweetest results—too green and they’re starchy, too brown and they’ll turn mushy. This is the flavor anchor for every bite.

Step 3: Whip Up the Fluffy, Dreamy Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until the mixture is absolutely smooth and creamy, free of lumps. Gently fold in the whipped topping, working carefully to keep the mixture light and fluffy. This is truly the heart of the Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake, bringing creamy tang and cloud-like sweetness.

Step 4: Layer and Decorate with Fruits and Toppings

Spread the cheesecake mixture smoothly and evenly over the banana layer, making sure to reach every edge. Next, sprinkle on the well-drained crushed pineapple, followed by a generous layer of sliced strawberries. For the finishing touch, scatter mini chocolate chips and chopped nuts over the top, creating color and crunch. Each topping is a nod to the classic ice cream sundae, but with a cheesecake twist!

Step 5: Chill, Set, and Garnish to Perfection

Cover your pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—or, for best results, overnight. This crucial step allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully. Right before serving, crown each square with a bright maraschino cherry. That finishing touch is what pushes this Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake over the top!

How to Serve Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Garnishes

Go wild with garnishes! A drizzle of chocolate sauce, extra dollops of whipped topping, or even a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles bring out the banana split vibes. Maraschino cherries are non-negotiable—each piece truly shines with its own ruby-red topper.

Side Dishes

Since Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is delightfully sweet and rich, a simple platter of fresh fruit or a light citrus salad makes a refreshing contrast. For an even more decadent treat, serve alongside scoops of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for the ultimate retro dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try prepping the cheesecake in individual mason jars or parfait glasses for adorable single-serve desserts. For parties, slice them into “bars” for finger-friendly treats. You can even make bite-sized squares for dessert buffets, letting guests grab and go. However you serve it, the cascading layers of fruit and cream always steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator. It stays wonderfully creamy and fresh for up to 2 days, especially if you wait to garnish with cherries right before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices for up to a month if wrapped well—just be mindful that the texture of the fruit may soften a bit upon thawing. For best results, freeze without the cherry garnish and add it fresh after defrosting.

Reheating

No need to reheat, as Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold and creamy straight from the fridge! If frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream brings an even more luscious texture and pure dairy taste. Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with a little sugar until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into your cream cheese mixture as a homemade substitute.

Can I make Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes—just use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and double-check that all your toppings are gluten-free. The resulting dessert will be just as delicious and crowd-pleasing!

What if my cheesecake isn’t setting?

Chilling time is everything—at least 4 hours is required, and overnight is even better. Make sure your whipped topping is well incorporated and give the dessert plenty of time in the fridge for the cleanest slices.

Can I swap the fruits for others?

Definitely! While pineapple, bananas, and strawberries give that classic banana split flair, feel free to get creative with blueberries, cherries, or even a few slices of kiwi for extra color and tang.

What can I do if my pineapple made the cheesecake runny?

Be extra diligent about draining your crushed pineapple. Press it into a fine mesh sieve or pat gently with paper towels. Excess moisture can make the filling watery, so getting it as dry as possible is key!

Final Thoughts

If you want to spread a little happiness and nostalgia at your next gathering—or just put a smile on your family’s faces—this Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is the dessert to try. It’s playful, easy, and downright delicious. One slice, and you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Give it a go and let every colorful layer win over your taste buds!

Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the heavenly goodness of this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake! This luscious dessert features layers of graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, fresh fruits, and delightful toppings, all without ever turning on the oven.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

2 ripe bananas, sliced
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Toppings:

1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Maraschino cherries for garnish

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Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9×13-inch pan.
Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over banana layer.
Assembly: Add crushed pineapple, strawberries, chocolate chips, and nuts. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Serving: Garnish with maraschino cherries before serving.