If you love all the classic flavors of a banana split but want a fun twist that’s perfect for sharing, this Banana Split Pie Recipe is going to become your new best friend. It captures the sweet creaminess of bananas and pineapple, combined with the rich tang of cream cheese and vanilla pudding, all layered into a crisp graham cracker crust. Finished with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and a handful of nuts and cherries, this pie brings that nostalgic ice cream parlor treat to the table in a no-bake, incredibly simple pie form that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your pie. Each element plays a key role, from the crunchy crust to the smooth pudding layer, so make sure to have them all ready before you start.
- Graham cracker crust (1 prepared 9-inch): Provides a buttery, crunchy base that holds the pie together beautifully.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): Adds a creamy tang that lifts the sweetness in every bite.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer just right without overpowering.
- Crushed pineapple, well drained (1 cup): Brings a juicy tropical zing and a bit of texture contrast.
- Bananas, sliced (2 large): The star ingredient echoing the classic banana split flavor.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Creates a luscious, thick layer that adds vanilla sweetness and structure.
- Cold milk (1 1/2 cups): Needed to prepare the pudding, its creaminess balances the whole pie.
- Whipped topping (2 cups, divided): Keeps the pie light and fluffy, topping it off with that dreamy texture.
- Chocolate syrup (2 tablespoons): The chocolate drizzle that makes every slice feel indulgent.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/4 cup): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- Maraschino cherries (6 to 8 for topping): The sweet, colorful finishing touch that makes the pie truly festive.
How to Make Banana Split Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
Start by beating the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until completely smooth and creamy. This step is important because it ensures your creamy base will spread evenly and blend beautifully with the other flavors.
Step 2: Layer the Bananas and Pineapple
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, creating a lush foundation. Then, layer the sliced bananas neatly on top, followed by an even spoonful of the well-drained crushed pineapple. These layers provide that iconic banana split flavor and a fresh, juicy contrast.
Step 3: Make the Pudding Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk until the mixture thickens slightly. Next, gently fold in one cup of the whipped topping for a fluffy texture that balances the pudding’s thickness without weighing it down.
Step 4: Add the Pudding and Whipped Topping Layers
Spoon this pudding mixture evenly over the pineapple layer, smoothing it carefully. Then spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the entire pie. This top layer gives the pie an irresistible lightness and sets the stage for the final toppings.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Drizzle chocolate syrup artistically over the whipped topping, sprinkle chopped nuts across the surface for crunch, and place maraschino cherries evenly on top. Refrigerate the pie for at least three hours so it can fully set and the flavors meld perfectly.
How to Serve Banana Split Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To really bring this pie to life when serving, don’t be shy about adding a little extra flair. A few more chocolate syrup drizzles on each slice or an additional sprinkle of chopped nuts can make the presentation pop and add texture with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair slices of this pie with fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to amplify the banana split experience. The ice cream adds cold creaminess and complements the pie’s textures wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pie in clear individual glass dishes for a pretty layered effect or create mini banana split pies in small tart shells for a fun twist at parties. Both options keep things exciting and make each bite feel like a special treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, keep the Banana Split Pie Recipe refrigerated in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap. It stays fresh and delicious for two to three days, giving you a perfect dessert option ready to enjoy.
Freezing
If you want to make this pie ahead well in advance, you can freeze it. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
This no-bake Banana Split Pie is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, just let the refrigerated or thawed pie come to a slightly less chilled temperature for a few minutes if you want the flavors to shine more intensely.
FAQs
Can I use a chocolate cookie crust instead of a graham cracker crust?
Absolutely! A chocolate cookie crust enhances the chocolate notes in this pie and adds a richer depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bananas and pineapple.
What can I substitute for the whipped topping?
You can use homemade whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping if you prefer a fresher taste or need a dairy-free option; just make sure it holds its shape well.
How ripe should the bananas be?
Use bananas that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming mushy in the pie. Overripe bananas can make the pie watery, so look for bananas with a few brown spots but still solid texture.
Can I make this pie vegan?
This recipe can be adapted to vegan by using dairy-free cream cheese, pudding mix made with plant-based milk, and a vegan whipped topping. Just ensure all your replacements set properly for the best results.
How long does it take for the pie to set?
It needs at least three hours of refrigeration to fully set and allow the flavors to meld, but letting it chill overnight will give you the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Split Pie Recipe is one of those magical desserts that turn simple ingredients into a truly memorable experience. It’s surprisingly easy to make, yet packed with the delicious nostalgic flavors of a banana split in a sliceable, shareable pie form. Whether for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a special treat for yourself, I can’t recommend trying this recipe enough—you’re going to love it!
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Banana Split Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Banana Split Pie captures all the nostalgic flavors of a classic banana split in a creamy, no-bake pie format. Featuring layers of cream cheese, fresh bananas, crushed pineapple, and vanilla pudding atop a crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s topped with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, nuts, and cherries for the perfect summer dessert.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 prepared 9-inch graham cracker crust
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
- 2 large bananas, sliced
- 3.4 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 2 cups whipped topping, divided
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 6 to 8 maraschino cherries for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared graham cracker crust to form the first layer.
- Add banana slices: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring full coverage.
- Layer pineapple: Spoon the well-drained crushed pineapple evenly on top of the banana slices to add a juicy, tropical flavor.
- Mix pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Gently fold in 1 cup of the whipped topping until combined.
- Assemble pudding layer: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the pineapple layer, creating the next creamy section of the pie.
- Top with remaining whipped topping: Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping smoothly over the pudding layer to create a light, fluffy cover.
- Decorate and chill: Drizzle chocolate syrup over the top, sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans, and place maraschino cherries evenly on the pie. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the pie to set fully before serving.
Notes
- For a firmer filling, reduce the milk in the pudding mix by 1/4 cup.
- You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a chocolate cookie crust for a richer flavor.
- Keep the pie refrigerated and consume within two to three days for optimal texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
