Craving a delicious and easy dessert that requires no oven time? The No-Bake Banana Split Cake is your answer! This delightful dessert combines layers of a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, fresh bananas, juicy pineapple, and luscious whipped topping, all finished with a drizzle of chocolate and sprinkles of nuts or cherries. Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or any time you want a simple yet decadent treat without turning on the oven!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Banana Split Layers:
- 4-5 medium bananas, sliced
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (12 oz) container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 10-12 maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan, forming a firm and even crust.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the other layers.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, using a spatula to smooth it out.
Step 3: Assemble the Banana Split Layers
- Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas.
- Top with an even layer of whipped topping, spreading it smoothly across the entire surface.
Step 4: Garnish the Cake
- Drizzle the chocolate syrup over the top of the whipped topping in a zigzag pattern.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts and add the maraschino cherries for garnish.
- Add sprinkles if desired for an extra pop of color and fun!
Step 5: Chill the Cake
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set and the flavors to meld.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Cut into squares and serve cold. This dessert is delicious on its own, but you can add extra chocolate syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate any leftovers for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown slightly over time, but the flavor will remain delicious.
- Freezing: While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Chill Time is Important: Ensure that you give the dessert ample time to chill so that it sets properly.
- Drain Pineapple Well: Excess juice from the pineapple can make the cake too soggy, so be sure to drain it thoroughly.
- Use Fresh Bananas: For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to maintain their shape and texture in the dessert.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Paula Deen: Suggests adding a thin layer of melted butter over the graham cracker crust before chilling to give it extra flavor and firmness.
- Nigella Lawson: Recommends folding some freshly whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture for a lighter, mousse-like texture.
- Jamie Oliver: Advises garnishing with fresh strawberries or raspberries for added freshness and a burst of color.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different fruit instead of bananas?
Yes, you can substitute with strawberries, peaches, or any other fruit you prefer. - Is there a substitute for the graham cracker crust?
You can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even a pre-made pie crust. - Can I make this dessert in individual servings?
Absolutely! Use small jars or cups for a fun, portable version of this cake. - How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
Toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering to prevent browning. - Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, homemade whipped cream works perfectly. Use about 2 cups of whipped cream to replace the store-bought topping. - How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Mascarpone or a mixture of Greek yogurt and whipped cream can be used as a substitute, but it will slightly alter the flavor and texture. - Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when made a day ahead, allowing all the flavors to meld together. - Can I omit the nuts?
Of course! The nuts are optional and can be omitted if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free dessert. - Why is my crust crumbling?
Ensure you press the crust firmly into the pan and allow it to chill adequately before adding the other layers.
Enjoy this simple, no-bake Banana Split Cake that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!
