Description
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful, layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese, fresh bananas, pineapple, whipped topping, cherry pie filling, nuts, and drizzled chocolate syrup. Perfectly chilled and set in the fridge, it delivers all the classic flavors of a banana split in a convenient, crowd-pleasing cake form with minimal effort and no baking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
Fruit Layers
- 2 bananas (sliced)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Additional Toppings
- 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping until fully combined. Spread this smooth mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Layer the Fruit: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer. Next, add a layer of drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas, distributing it uniformly.
- Add More Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the fruit layer to create a creamy topping.
- Top with Cherries and Nuts: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the whipped topping layer. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans generously on top to add crunch and flavor.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle chocolate syrup artistically over the assembled cake. Garnish with maraschino cherries for a classic banana split finish.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set firmly. Slice and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
- Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- For added flavor, lightly toast the nuts before sprinkling on top.
- This dessert is best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator; do not freeze as whipped topping texture will be compromised.
- Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or your favorite nuts according to preference.
