Description
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful, layered dessert combining a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese, fresh bananas, pineapple, and cherry pie filling, topped with whipped topping, nuts, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Perfect for a quick and easy treat that requires no oven, this chilled cake captures all the flavors of a classic banana split in a convenient refrigerator-ready form.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
Fruit Layers
- 2 bananas (sliced)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (drained)
Topping and Garnish
- 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form a crust.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping until well combined. Spread the mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Layer the Fruit: Arrange the sliced bananas on top of the cream cheese mixture. Add an even layer of drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas.
- Add More Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping over the fruit layer.
- Top with Cherries and Nuts: Evenly distribute the cherry pie filling over the whipped topping. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle chocolate syrup over the dessert. Garnish with maraschino cherries for an added touch.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the layers to set. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushiness.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans.
- Chocolate syrup can be substituted with hot fudge for a richer taste.
- This cake should be stored covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid soggy layers.
