This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is the ultimate treat for warm weather or any time you’re craving a fruity, creamy dessert without turning on the oven. Made with layers of graham cracker crust, sweetened cream cheese, sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, whipped topping, and maraschino cherries, it’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at. Perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or just a fun family dessert, this easy recipe captures all the flavors of the classic banana split. Featuring no-bake cake recipes, fruity dessert recipes easy, air fryer baked sweet potato recipes easy, easy breakfast cake recipes, easy fruitcake recipes, easy pancake recipe 3 ingredients no milk recipe, and air fryer cake recipes easy.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe
3) Ingredients for No-Bake Banana Split Cake
4) How to Make No-Bake Banana Split Cake
5) Tips for Making No-Bake Banana Split Cake
6) Making No-Bake Banana Split Cake Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover No-Bake Banana Split Cake
8) Try these Desserts next!
9) No-Bake Banana Split Cake
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

No oven required – this no-bake dessert is perfect for hot days!
Easy layers of graham cracker crust, cream cheese, fruit, and whipped topping.
Ideal for summer parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing treat that tastes just like a banana split.
Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for convenience.

2) Easy No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe

This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a dreamy, fruity dessert that captures the magic of a classic banana split – without the need for an oven! It’s perfect for anyone looking for a stress-free recipe that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With its luscious layers of buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese, fresh bananas, crushed pineapple, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s every bit as indulgent as it sounds. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, birthday bash, or just need something fun and easy to whip up for your family, this dessert checks all the boxes. It belongs in the category of no-bake cake recipes and has all the elements of a classic American comfort dessert with a refreshing twist. At clara Cooks, we believe in delicious simplicity, and this recipe is just that – a standout that you’ll return to again and again. Find more like this at clara Cooks.

3) Ingredients for No-Bake Banana Split Cake

Graham Cracker Crumbs: These serve as the perfect base, offering that classic buttery crunch. When mixed with melted butter, they form a firm and flavorful crust that holds the entire dessert together without the need for baking.

Unsalted Butter: Melted and combined with the graham crumbs, the butter helps the crust bind and adds richness to each bite. Using unsalted butter lets you control the overall flavor and salt content of the dessert.

Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese forms the base of the creamy filling. It adds a slightly tangy balance to the sweetness and makes the texture ultra smooth. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.

Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar is added to the cream cheese to enhance the overall sweetness of the filling and bring out the natural flavor of the bananas and pineapple.

Crushed Pineapple: Make sure to drain it thoroughly – excess juice can make the layers soggy. The pineapple adds a sweet, tropical flavor and a juicy texture that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the other ingredients.

Bananas: Use ripe, firm bananas for best results. Their natural sweetness and creaminess complement the other flavors, while their soft texture adds another layer of indulgence to this no-bake dessert.

Whipped Topping: This adds a light, fluffy finish to the cake. Whether you use Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream, it brings the dessert together and gives it that classic banana split feel.

Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans are great options. They bring a bit of crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the fruit and whipped topping.

Chocolate Syrup: Just like in a traditional banana split, a generous drizzle of chocolate syrup adds a decadent touch to the finished dessert.

Maraschino Cherries: No banana split is complete without a cherry on top – or several! These add a fun and colorful finishing touch that makes the whole dessert pop.

4) How to Make No-Bake Banana Split Cake

Step 1: Start by combining graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until all the crumbs are coated, then press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will form your no-bake crust. Make sure it’s packed firmly using the back of a spoon for a solid base.

Step 2: In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. This creamy filling is the heart of this no-bake cake recipe and should have a light, spreadable texture.

Step 3: Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer. This will act as the foundation for your fresh fruit toppings.

Step 4: Layer the sliced bananas over the cream cheese mixture. Be sure to cover the entire surface. This is what gives the dessert its signature banana split flavor profile.

Step 5: Spread the well-drained crushed pineapple over the banana layer. The juicy pineapple adds sweetness and tropical flair to your no-bake dessert.

Step 6: Spread the whipped topping evenly across the fruit layer. You can use a spatula to create soft swirls or keep it smooth, depending on your desired look. This is one of the most visually satisfying parts of this no-bake cake recipe.

Step 7: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the whipped topping and drizzle with chocolate syrup for that final banana split touch. Top with maraschino cherries.

Step 8: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to blend beautifully.

5) Tips for Making No-Bake Banana Split Cake

To get the most out of your no-bake cake recipes, there are a few key tips you’ll want to follow. First, always drain the pineapple thoroughly. Any excess liquid can make your dessert soggy, which will affect both flavor and presentation. When layering, take your time to make sure each layer is even. This not only ensures consistent flavor in every bite but also creates a beautiful slice when served. If you’re using fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought topping, make sure it’s stabilized with a bit of powdered sugar or cream cheese to maintain its texture. Finally, refrigerating your cake for a full 2-4 hours allows it to set up properly. It’s a simple recipe, but paying attention to detail can elevate it to showstopper status.

6) Making No-Bake Banana Split Cake Ahead of Time

This no-bake banana split cake is ideal for making ahead. In fact, the flavor improves after a few hours of refrigeration. If you’re preparing it for an event or gathering, feel free to make it the night before. Simply prepare all the layers as instructed, but leave off the cherries and chocolate syrup until just before serving to keep them fresh. This way, your dessert looks pristine when it’s time to slice and serve. Making desserts ahead of time also frees you up for hosting duties or allows you to bring a show-stopping sweet treat to any gathering without stress. And as one of the best fruity dessert recipes easy to prepare, it’s a great go-to for summer potlucks and birthdays!

7) Storing Leftover No-Bake Banana Split Cake

Store any leftover no-bake banana split cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three days, although the bananas may begin to brown after the second day. For best results, cover the top tightly with plastic wrap to retain moisture and keep the whipped topping from absorbing fridge odors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can freshen it up with a few extra cherries or a light drizzle of chocolate syrup. Leftovers rarely last long with this dessert, as it’s one of the easiest and most loved air fryer cake recipes easy enough for even beginners to try at home!

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9) No-Bake Banana Split Cake