Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust
Introduction
Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s effortlessly simple, refreshingly cool, and guaranteed to please every guest? The Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust is a classic crowd-pleaser, capturing all the nostalgic flavors of a banana split in creamy cake form—with no oven required. Its layers of crunchy graham cracker crust, silky cream cheese, ripe bananas, rich pudding, sweet pineapple, and fluffy whipped topping create sheer bite-after-bite joy.
Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or summer celebrations, this no-bake dessert assembles in minutes, chills beautifully, and is as colorful as it is delicious.
Why This Banana Split Cake Is a Party Hit
What sets this recipe apart is not just its irresistible flavor, but its fuss-free preparation. The graham cracker crust forms a sturdy yet sweet base, layered with a tangy cheesecake filling and an array of classic banana split toppings—think banana slices, crushed pineapple, pudding, strawberries, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of nuts and cherries.
Each bite offers a satisfying play of textures, from the buttery crunch of the crust to the creamy, fruity layers above. There’s no risk of your dessert melting all over the table as a traditional banana split might—this cake stays cool and sliceable, making it a go-to for both novice cooks and experienced bakers alike.
Prepping Your Fruit and Toppings
A visually striking banana split cake comes down to precise slicing and layering. To create beautiful, uniform banana and strawberry slices for your cake, a handy Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper is a quick and effective solution. It guarantees even cuts, which make your layers pop and each bite perfectly balanced.
For clean layers and streamlined assembly, prep all toppings before you begin—drain the pineapple thoroughly, and have your maraschino cherries and nuts at the ready.
Layering the No-Bake Banana Split Cake
Start with your graham cracker crust: combine graham crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar, then press firmly into a lined pan for a sturdy base (using a Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll makes removal and cleanup a breeze).
Next, blend up a simple cream cheese layer until smooth—if you want ultra-creamy and lump-free filling, the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender can help ensure perfect texture. Then layer on bananas, drained pineapple, pudding, and strawberries.
Top generously with whipped topping, making sure to seal the edges to keep your bananas from browning. Finish with a scatter of nuts and cherries for authentic banana split flair.
Serving and Storage Tips
Cut the chilled cake into generous squares and serve on any casual or festive occasion. For easy slicing and attractive presentation at potlucks, you can use a Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3—especially helpful when transferring neat pieces to serving plates.
This dessert is best served cold and can be made a day in advance. Any leftovers store wonderfully in the fridge, making it a practical choice for busy hosts.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe yields 12 hearty servings. Each slice is estimated at 320–370 calories, depending on your toppings and pudding choices. It’s a sweet treat to be enjoyed in moderation during special gatherings.
Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust (Recap)
This cake transforms the beloved banana split into a luscious, portable no-bake dessert. From the crunchy graham cracker crust to the creamy, fruity, nutty toppings, every slice is a joyful taste of nostalgia, perfect for cooling off on a warm day or brightening up your next potluck.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch pan with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy lift-out later.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press tightly and evenly into your prepared pan to form the crust. Chill for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl or using the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, blend softened cream cheese and sugar until creamy and smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping until just combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust.
- Arrange banana slices in a single layer over the cream cheese mixture. For evenly sliced bananas, use a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper.
- Top with an even layer of well-drained crushed pineapple. Next, layer on sliced strawberries.
- Whisk together pudding mix and milk in a bowl for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Pour and spread over the fruit layers.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding, making sure to cover completely to seal in freshness.
- Finish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and dot with maraschino cherries. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and add sprinkles if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to firm up before slicing. For neat squares, place your pan on a Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 for stable cutting.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
This Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust is sure to become a staple for festive occasions or whenever you crave a cool, classic treat without turning on the oven!
