If you’re craving all the nostalgia of a classic ice cream shop treat without even turning on your oven, this Banana Split Cake – No Bake is destined to become your new obsession. Imagine layers of buttery graham cracker crumbs, fluffy cream cheese, ripe bananas, juicy pineapple, and a decadent cloud of whipped topping, all crowned with cherries and crunchy peanuts for a delightful crunch. This is a showstopper dessert that’s insane in both flavor and fun, and remarkably easy to put together. Whether you’re throwing a summer party, need a potluck winner, or just want a slice of sweet childhood, Banana Split Cake – No Bake brings all the joy of the original, zero scooping required!

Banana Split Cake - No Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things I absolutely love about this Banana Split Cake – No Bake is how every simple ingredient delivers big impact. These staples come together for a dessert that checks every box: sweet, creamy, tangy, and perfectly textured. Let’s break down the role each plays in your new favorite no-bake treat.

Graham cracker crumbs: The base of our cake, these create a golden, buttery crust that holds everything together and provides a classic flavor foundation.

White sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese and ripe fruit.
Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed with the crumbs, butter binds the crust and gives it that irresistible, rich texture.

Cream cheese: When softened and whipped, cream cheese turns into a dreamy, velvety layer that’s both tangy and creamy.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and gently thickens the cream cheese layer without any graininess.

Bananas: Sliced fresh, bananas add natural sweetness, soft texture, and classic banana split charm.
Crushed pineapple: Drained pineapple brings juicy, bright flavor with every bite, just like the best splits.
Frozen whipped topping: Thawed to cloudlike fluffiness, this creates the “ice cream” illusion and finishes each layer with a sweet, light touch.

Peanuts: Coarsely chopped, these bring the salty, crunchy counterpoint you expect on a banana split sundae.
Maraschino cherries: These cheerful jewels provide the finishing touch, adding visual pop and that unmistakable banana split flavor.

How to Make Banana Split Cake – No Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

The very soul of Banana Split Cake – No Bake is its crunchy, sweet graham cracker base. Pop your graham crackers into a food processor and pulse until you have fine, sandy crumbs. If you don’t have a processor, a zip-top bag and a rolling pin work in a pinch! In a big mixing bowl, stir the crumbs with white sugar and melted butter until everything is moistened and clumps together when you press it. Firmly press this blend into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create an even, compact layer. Let the crust chill in the fridge while you dream of what comes next.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer

While the crust is setting, grab that softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until it’s silky and smooth, with no lumps in sight. Spread this dreamy, tangy-sweet mixture right over your crust, ensuring you reach every corner. This creamy middle is what makes the cake so perfectly decadent—it’s like the best slice of cheesecake meeting your summer dessert goals.

Step 3: Layer on the Bananas and Pineapple

Next comes the fruit magic! Arrange your sliced bananas in even layers right on top of the cream cheese. Follow with the well-drained crushed pineapple, spreading it gently over the bananas. Be sure the pineapple is well drained—excess juice could make things soggy, and we want our Banana Split Cake – No Bake to slice up beautifully. These fruity layers deliver bursts of sweet, tropical flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

Now, it’s time for the dreamy top layer. Dollop the thawed whipped topping across your fruit, and gently smooth it out with a spatula. Aim for fluffy, pillowy coverage—this is your big finish! The whipped topping brings that signature ice cream shop taste and is the ultimate contrast to the dense crust and rich cream cheese below.

Step 5: Top with Peanuts and Cherries

Sprinkle your chopped peanuts all over the whipped topping, then crown the entire creation with those bright maraschino cherries. There’s something about this colorful finish that makes everyone smile and gives the cake its classic banana split appeal. Each bite will have sweet, salty, creamy, and just the right amount of crunch—total dessert harmony!

Step 6: Chill and Serve

For the final touch, refrigerate your Banana Split Cake – No Bake until it’s nice and cold—usually several hours or even overnight. Chilling helps all the flavors meld and ensures perfect, clean slices. Once set, cut into squares, serve cold, and watch how fast it disappears!

How to Serve Banana Split Cake – No Bake

Garnishes

Elevate your Banana Split Cake – No Bake with a flourish of extra toppings! A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles, or even a dash of rainbow confetti can make every slice party-ready. If you’re feeling fancy, add a swirl of whipped cream and a cherry on each piece for maximal banana split nostalgia.

Side Dishes

This cake shines alongside a light, zippy fruit salad or a citrusy punch. Try serving it with sparkling lemonade or even iced coffee—anything refreshing pairs beautifully and rounds out your dessert table. If you’re going all out, a scoop of sorbet or a small bowl of mixed berries is a perfect, palate-cleansing match.

Creative Ways to Present

Banana Split Cake – No Bake is a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for transforming into playful single servings in mason jars or mini trifle glasses. For birthdays or showers, cut the cake into small squares and skewer with a toothpick and cherry—a whimsical take that always gets rave reviews. Or, build a DIY sundae bar: set out toppings and let guests finish their slices just the way they want. This dessert is made for memory-making!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Cover your Banana Split Cake – No Bake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chilled setting keeps everything fresh, and flavors only get better as they mingle. Just be sure to keep it cold so the creamy layers hold up nicely.

Freezing

If you’d like to prep even further ahead, you can freeze Banana Split Cake – No Bake before garnishing—just wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding peanuts and cherries to keep those toppings crisp and vibrant. Frozen slices make a fabulous cool treat on hot days!

Reheating

No need to reheat this delicious dessert. Banana Split Cake – No Bake is at its best served cold and straight from the fridge! If you’re taking it to a party or potluck, transport it in a cooler and slice when served for best results.

FAQs

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works well in place of frozen whipped topping, but be sure to make it quite stiff so it holds up to the layers. Whipped topping tends to be a bit more stable, especially for make-ahead desserts, but real whipped cream is lovely for a fresher touch.

How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

To prevent sliced bananas from browning, try lightly tossing them with a bit of lemon juice before layering them into the cake. The acidity slows browning and keeps your Banana Split Cake – No Bake looking and tasting its best!

Can I add chocolate to this recipe?

Yes! Drizzle chocolate sauce over the whipped topping before adding peanuts and cherries, or scatter mini chocolate chips between the layers. Either way, a little chocolate makes this classic treat even more decadent.

What can I use instead of peanuts?

If you have a nut allergy or just prefer something different, try toasted coconut flakes or crushed pretzels for crunch and a salty kick. The beauty of Banana Split Cake – No Bake is how easily you can tweak it to suit your tastes.

Can I make Banana Split Cake – No Bake ahead for a party?

Definitely! In fact, Banana Split Cake – No Bake tastes even better after a night in the refrigerator. Make it the day before, cover, and chill—then just add your garnishes right before serving for peak freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like sharing a slice of Banana Split Cake – No Bake with your favorite people. It’s that rare dessert that’s easy enough to whip up on a whim, but festive enough to bring smiles to any special occasion. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every chilled, creamy, delightfully nostalgic bite!

Banana Split Cake – No Bake Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 22 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this delightful no-bake Banana Split Cake, a luscious treat that combines the classic flavors of a banana split in a convenient layered dessert form. Creamy, fruity, and utterly delicious!

Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until finely chopped.

In a large bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, white sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish in a flat layer. Refrigerate until set.

Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until well blended. Spread the cream cheese mixture in an even layer over the graham cracker crust.
Fruit Layers: Over the cream cheese layer, place the bananas and pineapple in even layers.
Topping: Cover the top with a layer of whipped topping. Top the dessert with chopped nuts and cherries.

Refrigerate until completely chilled. Serve cold.

Notes

This dessert is best served chilled for optimal taste and texture.
Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite nuts or additional fruits.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert

Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice

Calories: 380
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 260mg

Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g

Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Banana Split Cake, No Bake Dessert, Layered Dessert, Banana Dessert