Transform the beloved ice cream parlor treat into a show-stopping dessert with this incredible banana split cake recipe. This nostalgic dessert combines fresh bananas, sweet cherries, and crushed pineapple layered between creamy filling and a graham cracker crust. Perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion, this no-bake wonder will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Banana Split Cake Recipe
This dessert takes all the classic flavors of a banana split sundae and transforms them into a convenient, make-ahead cake that serves a crowd. It's become a potluck favorite because it's easy to transport and always disappears quickly. Plus, since it's no-bake, it's perfect for hot summer days when you don't want to turn on the oven.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Banana Split Cake Recipe
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Split Cake Recipe
- Equipment For Banana Split Cake Recipe
- Storage Instructions
- Recipe Variations
- Dietary Considerations
- FAQ
- HOW DID YOUR BANANA SPLIT CAKE RECIPE TURN OUT?
- Related
- Pairing
- Banana Split Cake Recipe
Ingredients
the Crust:
- 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
the Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 (16 oz) container strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup maraschino cherries, halved
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until well combined
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish
- Refrigerate while preparing the filling
Create the Cream Cheese Layer
- Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy
- Fold in half of the whipped topping until well combined
- Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust
Add the Fruit Layers
- Arrange sliced bananas in a single layer over the cream cheese mixture
- Spread drained crushed pineapple evenly over the bananas
- Layer sliced strawberries on top of the pineapple
Add the Final Touches
- Spread remaining whipped topping over the fruit layers
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts
- Arrange maraschino cherry halves decoratively on top
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight
Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Split Cake Recipe
- To prevent bananas from browning, toss the slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the cake
- Ensure the pineapple is very well-drained to prevent a soggy cake
- Let cream cheese reach room temperature for the smoothest filling
- Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and flavor
Equipment For Banana Split Cake Recipe
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh strainer for draining pineapple
Storage Instructions
Store the banana split cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While you can make this cake ahead of time, it's best enjoyed within 24-48 hours as the bananas may begin to brown after this time.
Note: This dessert is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh fruit content.
Recipe Variations
- Make it lighter by using reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping
- Try different nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts for variety
- Add a layer of chocolate chips between the fruit layers
- Substitute graham crackers with vanilla wafers for the crust
- Use mixed berries instead of just strawberries for more variety
Dietary Considerations
This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs:
- For gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust
- For nut-free: Simply omit the nuts from the topping
- For a dairy-free version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream
FAQ
A traditional banana split consists of a peeled, split banana with three scoops of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry) placed in a row. It's topped with chocolate sauce, strawberry sauce, and pineapple sauce, then garnished with whipped cream, chopped nuts (typically peanuts or walnuts), and maraschino cherries. The dessert is traditionally served in a specialized long boat-shaped dish.
A banana split features three ice cream flavors with multiple toppings, while a banana royale is simpler, typically made with one or two scoops of vanilla ice cream on a split banana, topped with hot fudge sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry. The royale version is less elaborate and focuses more on the hot fudge aspect than the variety of flavors found in a traditional split.
In cake mix, mashed bananas can replace eggs and/or oil. One medium mashed banana can substitute for one egg or ¼ cup of oil, adding moisture and acting as a binding agent. Bananas also reduce the need for sugar in recipes due to their natural sweetness. This substitution creates a denser, moister cake while adding nutrition and reducing fat content.
No, an upside down banana split differs from a traditional banana split in presentation and composition. While a traditional split has the banana as the base, an upside down version typically features the banana on top of the ice cream scoops, often with the toppings layered between. The basic ingredients remain similar, but the assembly and visual presentation are reversed.
HOW DID YOUR BANANA SPLIT CAKE RECIPE TURN OUT?
How did your Banana Split Cake Recipe turn out? Ready to savor something new? This recipe is sure to impress with its perfect balance of moist banana cake layers, creamy chocolate and strawberry filling, and rich whipped cream frosting, all topped with classic banana split toppings that transform the beloved ice cream dessert into an incredible cake. If you're a fan of nostalgic dessert transformations, be sure to try our Orange Cake Recipe next – another easy-to-make yet delicious treat!
Did you make this Banana Split Cake Recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Did you try any creative twists or use any unique ingredients? Some bakers have had great success adding crushed pineapple between layers, while others love incorporating chocolate ganache drips or malted milk powder for that ice cream parlor flavor. Your feedback not only helps others but also contributes to our growing community of home cooks. Don't forget to share a photo of your culinary creation!
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Pairing
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Banana Split Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh strainer for draining pineapple
Ingredients
the Crust:
- 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
the Filling:
- 2 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 8 oz container whipped topping
- 4 ripe bananas sliced
- 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 16 oz container strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup maraschino cherries halved
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
Instructions
Make the Crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar
- Press firmly into 9x13 inch baking dish
- Refrigerate while preparing filling
Prepare the Filling:
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth
- Fold in half of the whipped topping
- Spread over chilled crust
Layer the Fruits:
- Arrange banana slices over cream cheese layer
- Spread drained crushed pineapple evenly
- Add layer of sliced strawberries
Add Toppings:
- Spread remaining whipped topping
- Sprinkle with nuts
- Arrange cherries on top
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup
Chill:
- Refrigerate minimum 4 hours or overnight
Notes
- Drain pineapple very well to prevent soggy cake
- Toss banana slices in lemon juice to prevent browning
- Best served within 48 hours
- Keep refrigerated
- Not suitable for freezing
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