Indulge in the Irresistible: No Bake Banana Split Cake

This mouthwatering no-bake dessert will quickly become your go-to treat for summer celebrations. With a luscious graham cracker crust, layers of sweetened cream cheese, ripe bananas, juicy strawberries, crushed pineapple, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts, this banana split cake is a delicious homage to the flavors of summer.

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Dessert

Effortless Preparation: No special cooking skills required. This dessert comes together in a breeze.
Pantry Staples: You’ll find all the ingredients in your pantry, making it convenient and cost-effective.
Quick Assembly: In just 10 minutes, you can put together a delectable dessert that will impress your guests.
Perfect for Crowds: This cake generously serves a large group, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, and backyard BBQs.
Make Ahead: It can be prepared the night before, allowing you to relax and enjoy your event.

Ingredients Needed

Crust

Graham Crackers: The foundation of the crust, providing a buttery and crunchy base.
White Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together.

Creamy Filling

Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese offers a velvety texture.
Confectioners Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese when mixed.

Layers and Toppings

Bananas: Sliced evenly right before layering to retain freshness.
Strawberries: Sliced or diced to complement the bananas.
Pineapple: Crushed and well-drained before layering.
Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, adding a creamy element.
Chopped Peanuts: A delightful garnish for added crunch.
Chocolate Syrup: Drizzled on top for a decadent touch.
Maraschino Cherries: Whole cherries, drained and used as a delightful garnish.

How To Make Banana Split Cake

Using a food processor or high-speed blender, pulse the graham crackers with sugar and melted butter until you achieve crumb-like consistency.
Press the crumbly mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and refrigerate until set.
In a medium bowl, using a hand mixer, blend the cream cheese and confectioners sugar until well combined.
Spread the cream cheese mixture carefully over the chilled crust.
Layer the sliced bananas evenly on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Place the sliced strawberries over the banana layer.
Add the well-drained crushed pineapple over the strawberry layer.
Top with the whipped topping.
Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
Garnish with chopped nuts and maraschino cherries.
Refrigerate until completely chilled. Serve cold.

Tips For Assembling The No Bake Banana Split Cake

To ensure the best presentation and taste, follow these tips while assembling the cake:

Slice the bananas evenly and place them close together on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Slice the strawberries evenly and layer them tightly to cover the bananas completely.
Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to minimize any excess liquid that may affect the texture.
Allow the cake to chill for at least 4-6 hours before serving to ensure it sets properly.

Variations

Get creative and customize your banana split cake with these variations:

Crust: Swap graham crackers for chocolate Oreo sandwich cookies for a decadent chocolate crust.
Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut in the layers or as a topping for a tropical theme.
Drizzled Toppings: Replace the traditional chocolate sauce with strawberry or caramel sauce.
Nuts: Experiment with different chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra flavor and texture.
Sprinkles: Sprinkle your favorite colorful sprinkles on top for a festive touch.
Candies/Cookies: Crushed cookies or candies make delightful garnishes.
Chocolate: Use mini chocolate chips or shaved chocolate as a tempting garnish.
Cherries: Indulge in the classic banana split experience with maraschino cherries.

How To Store

Keep your no-bake banana split cake refrigerated until serving. Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, bear in mind that the crust may lose its crunchiness and the bananas may soften with time. So, it’s best to enjoy this delightful dessert as soon as it’s assembled and chilled to savor its optimal flavors.

If you can’t get enough of easy and irresistible no-bake desserts, check out these recipes: