No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that layers the classic flavors of a banana split into a creamy, chilled cake. It’s perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a dessert that doesn’t require baking. Here’s a simple recipe for this fun and refreshing treat:
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Layers:
1. Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2. Banana Layer:
- 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
3. Pineapple Layer:
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
4. Strawberry Layer:
- 1 cup strawberry pie filling (or fresh strawberries, sliced)
5. Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Chopped nuts, for garnish (optional)
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the layers.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the whipped topping and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
3. Add the Banana Layer:
- Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer.
4. Add the Pineapple Layer:
- Spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the bananas.
5. Add the Strawberry Layer:
- Spoon the strawberry pie filling (or sliced fresh strawberries) evenly over the pineapple layer.
6. Add the Whipped Cream Topping:
- Spread the additional whipped topping evenly over the strawberry layer.
7. Garnish and Chill:
- Garnish with maraschino cherries, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
8. Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Tips:
- Banana Freshness: To prevent bananas from browning, you can toss them lightly with a bit of lemon juice before layering them.
- Variation: You can use different fruit toppings or pie fillings according to your preference.
- Storage: This cake keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful, easy dessert that’s sure to please a crowd. It combines the best elements of a banana split into a convenient, make-ahead treat. Enjoy!