How to Make Banana Split Cake Recipe in Just 5 Easy Steps

Introduction: The Ultimate Banana Split Cake Recipe

Who doesn’t love a banana split? Now, imagine turning that classic dessert into a decadent, easy-to-make cake! Banana Split Cake is a no-bake dessert that combines layers of graham cracker crust, creamy vanilla filling, fresh bananas, juicy pineapples, and whipped topping—topped with nuts, chocolate, and cherries.

This cake is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for parties, birthdays, or just a fun weekend treat. Unlike traditional banana splits that require scoops of ice cream, this no-bake cake has all the same flavors but in a soft, creamy, and sliceable form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ No Baking Required – Perfect for summer or quick desserts.
✔ Easy & Fast – Only 5 simple steps!
✔ Family-Friendly – A guaranteed hit for kids and adults.
✔ Rich & Creamy – Layers of creamy goodness packed with fruit flavors.

Are you ready to make this delicious Banana Split Cake Recipe in just 5 easy steps? Let’s dive in!

How to Make Banana Split Cake Recipe?

Quick Overview:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12

This no-bake cake combines layers of buttery graham cracker crust, creamy filling, fresh bananas, and pineapples—all topped with a fluffy whipped layer and garnished with chocolate syrup, cherries, and nuts!

Key Ingredients for Banana Split Cake Recipe

✅ Substitutions: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a GF version. Swap out sugar for honey or a sugar substitute for a lower-carb option.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Banana Split Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
2. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust.
3. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Add the Fruits

1. Slice fresh bananas and layer them over the cream cheese filling.
2. Evenly spread the drained crushed pineapple on top.

Step 4: Add Whipped Topping & Garnishes

1. Spread whipped topping evenly over the fruit layer.
2. Drizzle chocolate syrup on top for added richness.
3. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the cake (optional).
4. Top with maraschino cherries for the classic banana split look.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

1. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
2. Slice and serve cold for the best texture and flavor!

Recipe Notes & Expert Tips

✔ Drain pineapple well – Excess moisture can make the cake soggy.
✔ Chill for at least 2 hours – This helps set the layers properly.
✔ Use ripe but firm bananas – Overripe bananas can turn mushy.
✔ For extra crunch, add a layer of crushed nuts between the layers.

What is Banana Split Cake?

Banana Split Cake is inspired by the famous banana split ice cream dessert but transformed into a creamy, no-bake cake. Instead of scoops of ice cream, this recipe combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy filling, fresh bananas, pineapples, and whipped topping to give the same iconic flavors in every bite!

Did you know? The banana split originated in the early 1900s in Pennsylvania, making it one of America’s most famous desserts!

What to Serve with Banana Split Cake?

🍨 Best Side Dish: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream.
☕ Perfect Drink Pairing: Iced coffee, milkshakes, or a cold glass of milk.
🍫 Extra Topping Ideas: Sprinkles, caramel sauce, or shredded coconut.

Top Tips for Perfecting Banana Split Cake

✔ Ingredient Swaps: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter version.
✔ Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t skip the chilling time—this ensures the cake holds its shape.
✔ Pro Tips for Texture & Flavor: Let the cake sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the fridge to enhance flavors.

Healthy Cooking Tips for Banana Split Cake

🍌 Low-Carb Option: Replace graham crackers with almond flour crust.
💚 Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of whipped topping.
🥥 Sugar-Free Alternative: Swap powdered sugar for monk fruit sweetener.

For more healthy banana split inspiration, check out this healthy banana split recipe from Feel Good Foodie!

Creative Variations of Banana Split Cake

🌱 Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.
🌶 Spicy Twist: Add cinnamon to the graham cracker crust for extra warmth.
🍫 Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: Add a layer of melted chocolate over the crust.

Storing and Reheating Tips

✅ Pro Tip: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Banana Split Cake Recipe

Mary

This Banana Split Cake Recipe is creamy, fruity, and simple to make. Follow 5 easy steps and enjoy a slice now!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 Servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups Graham cracker crumbs Crushed finely for the crust
• ½ cup Butter melted (Unsalted preferred)
• 8 oz 1 package Cream cheese (Softened)
• 2 cups Powdered sugar For sweetness
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract Enhances flavor
• 2-3 medium Fresh bananas Sliced thinly
• 1 can 20 oz Crushed pineapple (Drained thoroughly)
• 1 container 8 oz Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
• 12-15 pieces Maraschino cherries For garnish
• ¼ cup Chocolate syrup Drizzle on top
• ½ cup Chopped nuts Optional, adds crunch

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Crust
• Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
• Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust.
• Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
• Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
• In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
• Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
• Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
• Step 3: Add the Fruits
• Slice fresh bananas and layer them over the cream cheese filling.
• Evenly spread the drained crushed pineapple on top.
• Step 4: Add Whipped Topping & Garnishes
• Spread whipped topping evenly over the fruit layer.
• Drizzle chocolate syrup on top for added richness.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts over the cake (optional).
• Top with maraschino cherries for the classic banana split look.
• Step 5: Chill & Serve
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
• Slice and serve cold for the best texture and flavor!

Keyword banana split, Classic dessert, easy dessert, no-bake dessert, party dessert, summer dessert

Conclusion: Try This Irresistible Banana Split Cake Today!

Now that you know how to make Banana Split Cake in just 5 easy steps, it’s time to treat yourself to this delicious no-bake dessert! Whether it’s for a party, a family dinner, or a weekend treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

Loved this recipe? Try our other easy desserts:
🍓 Puff Pastry Strawberry Dessert – A light and flaky pastry filled with sweet strawberry puree and topped with whipped honey for an irresistible treat.
🥧 Mini Chicken Pot Pies – Made with Pillsbury Mini Pie Crusts, these bite-sized pot pies are packed with creamy chicken filling and baked to golden perfection.
🍪 Coconut Cookies with Brown Sugar Syrup – Soft and chewy coconut cookies drizzled with a rich brown sugar syrup for a delightful flavor twist.

What are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! 🎉

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)