Print

No-Bake Banana Split Layered Dessert Cake

A perfect square slice of banana split cake showing layers of crust, cream, fruit, and whipped topping with cherries.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

You can create this creamy, chilled No-Bake Banana Split Cake that captures all the classic ice cream parlor flavors. This easy layered dessert is perfect for summer parties or potlucks and requires no oven time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large tub (12 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
  • 3 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts or chocolate syrup for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the crust in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
  2. Make the cream cheese layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fully combined. Mix in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping until just combined.
  3. Assemble the first layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
  4. Layer the fruit: Arrange the sliced bananas over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle the well-drained crushed pineapple evenly over the bananas. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the pineapple layer.
  5. Add the topping: Gently spread the remaining half of the whipped topping over the fruit layers.
  6. Garnish: Decorate the top with the halved maraschino cherries. If you wish, drizzle with chocolate syrup or sprinkle with chopped nuts for extra flavor.
  7. Chill: Cover the dish loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set completely. This chilling time is essential for the best texture.
  8. Serve: Cut into squares and serve this easy summer dessert cold.

Notes

  • Make sure the crushed pineapple is very well drained; excess liquid will make the cake watery. Press the pineapple between paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
  • For the best results, use a 9×13 inch dish for even layering. If you use a smaller dish, you may need to increase the ingredient quantities.
  • This make ahead dessert recipe tastes best when chilled for a full 8 hours or overnight.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/banana-split-cake-no-bake-easy-layered-dessert/