No-Bake Banana Split Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: This cake is super easy to make with no oven time needed, making it perfect for hot days or when you’re short on time.
• Banana split flavors: It has all the flavors you love from a classic banana split, including bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and a sweet cream cheese filling.
• Perfectly balanced texture: The graham cracker crust provides crunch, while the creamy filling and fresh fruit give a delightful contrast.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the fruit or toppings to suit your preferences, such as swapping strawberries for blueberries or omitting the nuts.
• Great for gatherings: This cake is easy to make ahead and serves a crowd, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1½ cups fat-free whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• ¼ cup chocolate syrup (optional)
• ¼ cup maraschino cherries, drained (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized pan to form an even crust. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in the fat-free whipped topping and mix until everything is fully combined and fluffy.
3. Assemble the cake: Spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Layer the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, and sliced strawberries on top of the filling.
4. Add toppings: If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the fruit layer. Drizzle the chocolate syrup over the top of the cake and add maraschino cherries for extra flavor and decoration.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Once chilled, slice and serve. Enjoy this refreshing and indulgent dessert!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 3-4 hours (or overnight)
• Total time: 15 minutes (plus chill time)

Variations

• Fruit options: Feel free to swap the strawberries and bananas for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a different twist.
• Nuts: You can use different nuts such as almonds or pecans, or skip them entirely if you prefer a nut-free dessert.
• Sugar-free options: For a lower-calorie version, use sugar-free whipped topping and powdered sugar substitutes.
• Add chocolate chips: For extra chocolatey goodness, you can sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the cake or mix them into the filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best enjoyed within the first few days, as the fruit may release moisture over time.
• Freezing: This cake can also be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular whipped cream instead of fat-free whipped topping?

Yes, you can use regular whipped cream, but keep in mind that it will add more calories and fat. Fat-free whipped topping helps keep the recipe lighter.

2. Can I make this cake without the graham cracker crust?

Yes, you can make this dessert without the graham cracker crust and turn it into a parfait by layering the cream cheese mixture and fruit in individual cups. Alternatively, you can use a different type of crust like an almond flour or cookie crust.

3. How can I make the crust gluten-free?

To make the crust gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute with ground almonds or gluten-free cookies.

4. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used instead of canned, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

5. How can I make this dessert dairy-free?

To make this cake dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping substitute. There are several options available in stores for vegan alternatives.

6. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. It needs to chill for a few hours (or overnight), so it’s a great dessert to prepare in advance for gatherings.

7. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Fresh fruit works best for this recipe, but if you want to use frozen fruit, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove any excess water.

8. Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?

Yes, you can fold mini chocolate chips into the filling for an extra burst of chocolate flavor.

9. How can I prevent the bananas from browning?

To prevent bananas from browning, you can brush them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the cake. This helps slow down oxidation.

10. Can I use a different topping instead of chocolate syrup?

If you don’t want to use chocolate syrup, you can drizzle caramel syrup, a fruit syrup, or even a sugar-free chocolate drizzle for a different flavor.

Conclusion

The No-Bake Banana Split Cake is an incredibly easy and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and layers of fresh fruit, this dessert tastes just like a classic banana split but in cake form. It’s quick to prepare and ideal for serving a crowd, making it a must-try treat for your next get-together. Plus, the best part is that it requires no baking, which makes it a perfect choice for warm weather or when you need a last-minute dessert. Enjoy this indulgent yet simple treat that will surely be loved by all!

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