Why You’ll Love No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe
This dessert has all the nostalgic flavors of a traditional banana split but is transformed into a creamy, layered cake that’s easy to make. Since it’s a no-bake recipe, it’s ideal for when you want something indulgent without turning on the oven. It’s also easily customizable with your favorite toppings and fruits, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
8 ounces Cool Whip
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings:
3 to 4 bananas, sliced
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained well
20 ounces strawberries, sliced
8 ounces Cool Whip
1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
Chocolate sauce
Directions
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Crush the graham crackers and mix them with melted butter and salt to form the crust.
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press the crust mixture into an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
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In a mixing bowl, whip together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated, then spread the mixture over the chilled crust.
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Layer the sliced bananas evenly over the filling, followed by the drained crushed pineapple and sliced strawberries.
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Spread another layer of Cool Whip on top.
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Drizzle with chocolate sauce and sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the top.
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Optional: Add maraschino cherries for a traditional banana split look.
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Chill the cake for at least four hours or overnight before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This no-bake banana split cake yields about 12 to 15 servings. Preparation takes approximately 25 minutes, and chilling requires at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best results.
Variations
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Nut-Free Version: Omit the hazelnuts or replace them with crushed graham crackers or granola for crunch.
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Alternative Fruits: Use blueberries, raspberries, or kiwi instead of strawberries for a different flavor profile.
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Chocolate Crust: Swap graham crackers for crushed chocolate cookies for a richer base.
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Peanut Butter Twist: Add a thin layer of peanut butter between the crust and filling for extra depth.
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Mini Version: Assemble in individual jars or cups for a single-serve dessert.
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Low Sugar Option: Use reduced-sugar Cool Whip and fresh fruits only, skipping chocolate sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store the banana split cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the fresh fruit and cream filling don’t thaw well. Reheating is not necessary since it’s served chilled.
FAQs
What type of cream cheese works best for this recipe?
Full-fat cream cheese at room temperature gives the best texture and flavor for the filling.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
Layer them just before serving or lightly brush with lemon juice to slow oxidation.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used, but stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar so it holds up better.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Fresh fruit is recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
What dish size should I use?
A standard 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this layered dessert.
Can I skip the chocolate sauce?
Absolutely. The chocolate sauce adds richness, but the dessert is still delicious without it.
How long does it need to chill?
A minimum of 4 hours is recommended, but chilling overnight helps the layers set better.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, feel free to add crushed cookies, chopped candy bars, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
The no-bake banana split cake is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the best parts of a classic sundae with the ease of a layered cake. With its vibrant fruit toppings and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite for birthdays, family gatherings, or casual weekend treats.
