Description
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert combining a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, fluffy filling and classic banana split toppings. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep, it requires chilling time to set firm. It’s perfect for hot days or when you want a quick indulgence without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (optional)
- Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter thoroughly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Place it in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
- Mix the cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together using a mixer until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream holds its shape firmly.
- Fold whipped cream into cream cheese: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula, taking care to maintain the fluffy texture and fully combine the ingredients without deflating.
- Assemble the cake layers: Remove the chilled crust from the fridge and layer the thinly sliced bananas evenly over the crust. Add a layer of drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas. Spread the cream cheese and whipped cream filling evenly over these fruit layers.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips all over the filling layer, then add the chopped maraschino cherries if using, distributing them evenly for bursts of color and flavor.
- Chill to set: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cake to firm up and the flavors to meld. Just before serving, top with dollops of whipped cream for an extra decadent finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Use ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor, but add them just before assembling to prevent browning.
- Drained crushed pineapple prevents the crust and filling from becoming soggy.
- The cake needs chilling time to set properly; do not skip refrigeration.
- For a decorative touch, add whole maraschino cherries on top with whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
