There’s something magical about a dessert that captures the essence of a classic ice cream parlor treat and transforms it into a dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is delightful to devour. This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is exactly that—a nostalgic nod to those colorful, fruity, and indulgent banana splits of yesteryear, but with the ease and convenience of a no-bake dessert. It’s the kind of dessert you bring out when you want to impress at summer parties or indulge in a sweet treat without turning on the oven.

The joy of this cake lies not just in its deliciousness but in its layers of texture and flavor. From the crumbly graham cracker base to the creamy, fluffy layers mingled with fresh fruits, and the final touch of nuts and chocolate, every bite is a celebration. Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful dessert.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups (168 g) graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup (113.5 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 12 ounces (340.2 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 8 ounces (226.8 g) Cool Whip

For the Fruit & Toppings:

• 3 to 4 bananas, sliced
• 20 ounces (566.99 g) canned crushed pineapple, drained well
• 16 ounces (453.59 g) strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 8 ounces (226.8 g) Cool Whip
• ½ cup (58.5 g) walnuts, chopped
• Chocolate syrup
• Maraschino cherries

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Medium bowl
• Fork
• Rubber spatula
• Mixer

Preparation

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside. This will make removing the cake easier after it has set.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter using a fork until the crumbs are well moistened. Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish, pressing down into an even layer. Refrigerate this base while you work on the next layer to help it set.
3. Cream Cheese Layer: In another medium bowl, mix the cream cheese and sugar together with a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. Gently fold in the Cool Whip with a rubber spatula until it’s completely integrated. Spread this creamy mixture over the chilled crust.
4. Add Fruits: Layer the sliced bananas over the cream cheese layer first, followed by an even layer of drained crushed pineapple, and then a layer of sliced strawberries.
5. Top It Off: Cover the fruit with an even layer of Cool Whip, smoothing out the top. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch, drizzle generously with chocolate syrup, and dot the top with maraschino cherries for that classic banana split appearance.
6. Chill and Set: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the layers to meld and the flavors to deepen. This rest period also helps the cake to firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake chilled, cut into squares. It’s perfect as a sweet finish to a barbecue or as a special treat on a warm day. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of chilled milk to balance its sweetness.

Tips

• Fruit Variations: Feel free to tweak the fruit layers based on what’s available or in season. Mangoes or peaches can be a wonderful addition or substitute.
• Nuts Option: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if preferred, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping to cater to those with dairy restrictions.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze this cake? While you can freeze it, the texture of the fresh fruits and Cool Whip might change upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.
2. How can I make it less sweet? Reduce the sugar in the cream cheese layer or choose unsweetened or lightly sweetened whipped topping.
3. What can I use instead of graham crackers? Vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits are great alternatives for the crust.
4. Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.

 

This No-Bake Banana Split Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a festive, fruity, and fun way to bring a bit of joy to any occasion. It’s a full-flavored homage to the beloved banana split, all without the need for an ice cream scoop. Enjoy crafting this sweet, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as much fun to make as it is to eat!