No-Bake Banana Split Cake Racipe – A Classic Dessert for All Ages (2024)
Looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to make and delicious? Try the no-bake banana split cake . This banana split dessert brings together the flavors of a banana split in a no-bake format. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you don’t want to use the oven. This dessert is sure to please everyone.
This recipe makes a big 9×13-inch cake, good for up to 8 slices. It only takes 30 minutes to prepare and 4 hours to chill. The graham cracker crust is a tasty base. Layers of cream cheese, fresh bananas, and whipped topping add to the flavors and textures.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- No-bake recipe perfect for hot summer days
- Serves 8 generous slices
- Combines classic banana split flavors in cake form
- Quick 30-minute prep time
- Customizable with various toppings and fruits
- It will last up to 4 days in the fridge
- Freezer-friendly for up to 1 month
What is a Banana Split Cake?
Banana split cake is a tasty dessert that turns the classic banana split sundae into a cake. It’s a no-bake treat that combines the flavors of a banana split with the ease of an icebox cake.
A Sweet Twist on Tradition
The banana split cake is a creative take on the favorite ice cream parlor treat. It has layers of graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and fresh fruit. This dessert includes crushed pineapple, sliced bananas, and a rich cream cheese mixture.
No-Bake Delight
This dessert is great because it doesn’t need to be baked. Like an icebox cake, it sets in the fridge, perfect for hot summer days. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and chills for 2 hours before serving.
Year-Round Treat
While it’s perfect for summer, the banana split cake is enjoyable all year. You can customize it with seasonal fruits or toppings. It’s great for backyard barbecues or quick desserts for holidays, serving up to 16 people.
“The banana split cake brings the joy of an ice cream parlor favorite to your kitchen, without the need for an ice cream scoop!”
Ingredients for the Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cake
Making a no-bake banana split cake is simple. Let’s explore the key ingredients that make it a hit.
Graham Cracker Crust
The cake starts with a crunchy graham cracker crust. You’ll need 1-3/4 cups of walnuts,It has 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/3 cup of melted butter. These ingredients mix to create a delicious base.
Cream Cheese Layer
The creamy layer is made with cream cheese. Mix 12 oz cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar. This adds a tangy flavor to the cake.
Fresh Bananas
Bananas are essential for a banana split cake. You’ll need 4-5 large bananas, sliced and ready to layer.
Whipped Topping
For creaminess, use 16 oz of Cool Whip. This whipped topping makes the cake fluffy.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Graham cracker crumbs | 1 box | Crust base |
| Crushed pineapple | 20 oz | Fruity flavor |
| Maraschino cherries | 12 | Topping |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 3.4 oz | Creamy filling |
| Whole milk | 1-3/4 cups | For pudding |
This recipe makes 12 servings and takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes to prepare. Each serving has 507 calories, with 31.2g of fat and 55g of carbs. You can adjust ingredients for dietary needs, like gluten-free or dairy-free options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Split Cake
Making a tasty Banana Split Cake is simpler than you think. It takes about 25 minutes to prepare and 6 hours to chill.
Creating the Graham Cracker Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press this mix into a 9×13-inch pan and chill for 30 minutes. This makes a great base for your dessert.
Layering the Cream Cheese and Whipped Topping
Beat the cream cheese with sugar until it’s smooth. Spread it over the chilled crust. This layer adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
Adding Fresh Bananas
Place banana slices over the cream cheese layer. Toss the slices in pineapple juice to prevent browning. This keeps your dessert looking fresh.
Top with Fruit and Toppings
Add crushed pineapple over the bananas. Then cover with whipped topping. Finish with cherries and nuts. Chill for 1-4 hours before serving.
“The key to a perfect Banana Split Cake is in the layering. Each component should be distinct yet harmonious.”
This recipe makes 16 servings, ideal for parties. Keep the cake in the fridge until you serve it to keep it fresh.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Split Dessert
Making the ultimate banana split dessert is an art. It involves choosing the right ingredients and mastering the assembly. Let’s explore some key tips to improve your banana split.
Choosing the Right Bananas
The base of a great banana split is fresh bananas. Fruits that are ripe but still firm are best.This ensures the best flavor and texture.
Overripe bananas can become mushy. On the other hand, underripe bananas lack sweetness.
No-Bake vs. Baked Version
No-bake banana split cakes are perfect for summer. They’re cool, refreshing, and quick to make. They’re great for hot days.
Baked versions, however, have a firmer texture. They’re ideal for special occasions.
Making Homemade Whipped Cream
Homemade whipped cream adds a luxurious touch. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whip until stiff peaks form. This topping enhances the banana split cake’s taste.
Alternative Toppings
While chocolate syrup and sliced strawberries are classics, try new things. Caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or crushed pineapple can make your dessert unique.
| Topping | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Syrup | Rich, sweet | Smooth |
| Sliced Strawberries | Tangy, fresh | Juicy |
| Crushed Pineapple | Tropical, sweet | Chunky |
| Caramel Sauce | Buttery, sweet | Sticky |
The secret to a perfect banana split is balance. Mix and match flavors and textures to make your dream dessert.
Serving and Storing Your Banana Split Cake
After making your no-bake banana split cake, it’s time to serve and store it. This dessert is great for parties. With the right steps, you can enjoy it for days.
Serving Tips for Perfect Slices
For clean, perfect slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. This makes each piece look as good as it tastes. Try serving it in clear plastic cups for a fun twist at parties!
Storing Leftovers
To store the cake, cover it tightly and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. If you used homemade whipped cream, eat it within 2 days for the best taste. Proper storage keeps the cake’s texture and flavor great.
Freezing Options
Want to prep ahead? Freeze your banana split cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it well in aluminum foil before freezing. To thaw, put it in the fridge overnight. Freezing is convenient, but fresh fruit toppings might change a bit when thawed.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate | 2-3 days | Cover tightly |
| Freeze | Up to 2 months | Wrap in foil |
Follow these tips to enjoy your banana split cake for a long time. Whether serving it fresh, storing leftovers, or freezing, this dessert will always be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Split Cake
Curious about making this easy no-bake banana split recipe? Let’s address some common questions to help you create the perfect dessert.
Can I use a different crust for Banana Split Cake?
Yes, you can customize the crust for your banana split cake. It says to use 2 cups of crushed graham crackers, feel free to experiment. Try a walnut crust or use store-bought graham cracker crusts to save time.Always keep in mind that crust is the base of things your cake, so choose a flavor that complements the other ingredients.
What’s the best way to prevent bananas from browning?
To keep your 4 medium bananas looking fresh in this recipe, toss the slices in pineapple juice from the 20-ounce can you’ll be using. Lemon juice works too. This simple step ensures your cake stays visually appealing, especially if you plan to make this cake in advance.
How long should the cake be chilled before serving?
For the best results, chill your banana split cake for at least 2 hours. The recipe details suggest a total time of 2 hours and 20 minutes, including 20 minutes of active preparation. If you have time, letting it chill overnight will yield the most flavorful and firmly set dessert. With this time to settle in, the flavours can harmonise to perfection.
Can I make this dessert vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! To try this recipe with dietary restrictions, use vegan cream cheese alternatives and gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. You can also swap the 2 cups of heavy whipping cream for a plant-based whipped topping. Remember to check all ingredients, including the 1/3 cup hot fudge topping and maraschino cherries, to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
FAQ
Can I use a different crust for Banana Split Cake?
Yes, you can try different crusts. Graham cracker is classic, but walnut or store-bought crusts work too. Just make sure the crust fits the cake’s flavors.
What’s the best way to prevent bananas from browning?
To stop bananas from turning brown, soak them in pineapple or lemon juice. This acidic treatment slows down the browning process, keeping bananas looking fresh.
How long should the cake be chilled before serving?
Chill the cake for 1-4 hours before serving. Refrigerating it overnight is best. This time lets the flavors mix and the cake set, making it easier to slice.
Can I make this dessert vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it vegan or gluten-free. Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based whipped topping for vegan. For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers. Always check your ingredients for dietary needs.
How long can I store leftovers of the Banana Split Cake?
You can keep any leftovers for up to four days in the fridge. If using fresh whipped cream, it’s best for 2 days. Always check for freshness before eating.
Can I freeze Banana Split Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it. But, the fruit’s texture might change when thawed. Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I make individual servings of this dessert?
Absolutely! Make it in clear cups or small dishes for individual servings. Layer the ingredients like the full cake. It’s great for parties and portion control.
What if I prefer homemade whipped cream over store-bought?
Making homemade whipped cream is easy. Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff. It’s sweeter and creamier, but may not last as long as store-bought.
Is it possible to change the flavour of the cream cheese layer?
Yes, you can customize the cream cheese layer. Add vanilla extract for flavor or banana pudding mix for more banana taste.Garnish with a little lemon zest for an extra zing tangy twist.
Is there a baked version of this cake?
There are baked versions of banana split cake. They have a firmer texture and may include eggs. The no-bake version is great for summer, while baked might offer a different texture.
banana split dessert
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl for preparing layers
- 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the cake
- Spatula to spread layers evenly
- Refrigerator to chill the cake
Ingredients
- 1 box graham cracker crumbs for the crust base
- 1/3 cup melted butter to mix with graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar to add sweetness to the crust
- 12 oz cream cheese for the creamy layer
- 1/2 cup sugar to mix with cream cheese
- 4-5 large bananas, sliced for layering
- 20 oz can crushed pineapple for fruity flavor
- 16 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip) for fluffiness
- 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix for creamy filling
- 1-3/4 cups whole milk to prepare pudding mix
- 12 maraschino cherries for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Combine 1 box of graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Mix well and press into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes
Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a mixing bowl, beat 12 oz cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Spread evenly over the chilled crust
Layer the Bananas
- Slice 4-5 large bananas and arrange them evenly over the cream cheese layer. Toss the slices in pineapple juice (from the crushed pineapple) to prevent browning if desired
Add Pineapple and Whipped Topping
- Spread the 20 oz of crushed pineapple over the bananas. Then, cover with 16 oz of whipped topping (Cool Whip), spreading it smoothly
Prepare the Pudding Layer
- In a bowl, whisk together 3.4 oz of instant vanilla pudding mix and 1-3/4 cups of milk until it thickens. Spread this layer on top of the whipped topping
Add Final Toppings
- Top with maraschino cherries and any additional toppings, such as chopped nuts or chocolate syrup, if desired