🍰 No-Bake Banana Split Cake

An irresistible, layered dessert combining creamy cheesecake filling, fresh fruit, and a graham cracker crust—no oven required!

Servings & Timing

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Dietary Tags: Vegetarian, No-Bake, Family-Friendly

📝 Ingredients

For the crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• Cream cheese, softened

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

For the layers:

• Bananas, sliced

• Crushed pineapple, well-drained

• Strawberries, sliced

For the topping:

• Whipped topping (or whipped cream)

• Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

• Chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce

• Maraschino cherries (optional)

🔪 Instructions

1. Prepare the crust

   • Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly mixed.

   • Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

2. Make the filling

   • Beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

   • Spread over the chilled crust.

3. Assemble the layers

   • Arrange sliced bananas over the filling.

   • Spread drained pineapple over bananas.

   • Add a layer of sliced strawberries.

4. Top it off

   • Spread whipped topping evenly.

   • Sprinkle with chopped nuts.

   • Drizzle with chocolate syrup or hot fudge.

   • Garnish with cherries, if using.

5. Chill and serve

   • Refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

   • Slice and serve chilled.

💡 Notes & Tips

• Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness.

• Make ahead: Best made the night before so flavors meld beautifully.

• You can substitute Greek yogurt cream cheese for a slightly lighter filling.

📸 Step-by-Step Guide

(Here, if adding to a blog, you would show process photos: crust prep → filling spreading → fruit layering → final topping)

Tip: When layering the bananas, try to overlap slightly to prevent gaps when cutting slices!

🥄 Ingredient Insights & Swaps

Ingredient tips:

• Cream cheese: Full-fat works best for a rich, stable filling.

• Whipped topping: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade whipped cream adds a fresher flavor.

Substitutions:

• Nut-free: Omit nuts entirely.

• Lower sugar: Use reduced-sugar whipped topping or skip the chocolate drizzle.

• No graham crackers? Substitute crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits.

Equipment alternatives: No stand mixer needed—hand beaters or a sturdy whisk will do!

🎨 Variations & Serving Ideas

Flavor Twists:

• Add crushed Oreos between fruit layers for crunch.

• Swirl caramel instead of chocolate syrup.

Dietary Versions:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers.

• Lightened-up: Swap low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or birthday parties.

• Serve with extra sliced strawberries or a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt.

Fun idea: Pair with a tropical fruit punch or vanilla iced coffee.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead

• Storage: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Not recommended—bananas and cream filling can become watery.

• Make-Ahead: Assemble completely the night before serving.

Texture Note: The crust softens slightly over time, which many people love!

🔎 Nutrition & W-W Points (per serving estimate)

Calories: 380 kcal | Carbs: 35g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 25g

W-W Points (per slice, based on 12 slices, using regular ingredients):
➡️ 13 Points (W-W 2024 Plan)
Note: You can lower this to about 8 Points per slice by using light cream cheese, light butter, and fat-free whipped topping.

Allergens: Milk, Nuts, Gluten (if using regular graham crackers)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes—just make sure it’s finely crushed and well-drained to avoid extra moisture.

Q: Can I skip the nuts?
A: Absolutely. The cake is delicious even without nuts, making it nut-free friendly.

Q: What’s the best way to slice clean squares?
A: Chill thoroughly and wipe the knife between each cut for neat slices.

Q: Can this be made dairy-free?
A: You can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped topping, but texture may vary.

📝 The Story Behind the Recipe

This Banana Split Cake has been a family gathering favorite for over a decade. It was originally a summer potluck creation that became an instant hit. No-bake, colorful, and nostalgic—this dessert always brings smiles (and seconds!).