Banana Split Cake

Introduction

This Banana Split Cake is easy and sweet. It has a graham cracker crust, a creamy cream cheese layer, sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, Cool Whip, peanuts, and cherries. If you like quick desserts, you may also enjoy this easy cake mix cookie bars recipe for another simple treat.

why make this recipe

Make this cake when you want a quick dessert that looks like a special treat. It needs no baking and it feeds a crowd. It uses simple ingredients you may already have. For another good party dessert idea, try the carrot cake roll for a different, homey flavor.

how to make Banana Split Cake

Follow these clear steps and use cold tools when you need to spread layers.

Ingredients :

1/2 cup butter, 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or about 14 full sized crackers, crushed), 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup butter (softened), 2 cups confectioners sugar ((powdered)), 1/8 teaspoon sea salt ((just a pinch)), 20 oz can crushed pineapple (in its own juices, juice drained over. abowl), 4 bananas, 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed in refrigerator), 11/2 cup peanuts (finely chopped), 12 maraschino cherries (rinsed and dried (1 for each slice)), hot fudge sauce (for drizzling, optional)

Directions :

• for graham cracker crust-
  Melt 1/2 cup butter and mix with 2 cups graham cracker crumbs and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Press the mix into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan. Press firmly and smooth the top. Put the pan in the fridge to chill while you make the next layers.
• for cream cheese layer-
  Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup softened butter until smooth. Add 2 cups confectioners sugar and 1/8 teaspoon sea salt. Beat again until smooth. Spread this cream cheese mix evenly over the chilled crust.
• for the remaining layers-
  Drain the 20 oz can crushed pineapple into a bowl and set the juice aside or discard. Slice 4 bananas and lay the slices over the cream cheese layer in a single even layer. Spread 8 oz thawed Cool Whip over the bananas. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cup finely chopped peanuts over the Cool Whip. Place 12 maraschino cherries on top (one per common slice). If you like, warm a little hot fudge sauce and drizzle over the top. Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before cutting so layers set.

how to serve Banana Split Cake

Cut the cake into squares. Serve cold. Add extra Cool Whip or warm hot fudge on each slice if you want. Use a sharp knife washed in warm water between cuts for neat slices.

how to store Banana Split Cake

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid and keep it in the fridge. It stays best for 2–3 days. The bananas will brown a little after that. This cake does not freeze well because the bananas get soft and change texture.

tips to make Banana Split Cake

• Drain the pineapple well so the cake does not get soggy.
• Use ripe but firm bananas so they hold their shape.
• Chill the crust before adding the cream cheese layer to keep layers even.
• For quick prep, set a timer to let the cake chill at least 2 hours.
• For other no-bake ideas, see this easy no-bake cookie bars that also need little work.

variation (if any)

• Use chopped walnuts or pecans instead of peanuts.
• Add a layer of sliced strawberries or use fresh pineapple chunks.
• For a lighter cake, use low-fat cream cheese and Cool Whip light.
• Turn it into single servings by layering in small cups with the same order of ingredients.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake a day ahead?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. It will taste better after the flavors set.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes. Chop fresh pineapple and drain extra juice well before using so the cake stays firm.

Q: Can I replace Cool Whip with whipped cream?
A: You can, but whipped cream may get watery faster. Serve sooner if you use fresh whipped cream.

Q: Is this cake safe to leave out at room temperature?
A: No. It has cream cheese and Cool Whip, so keep it refrigerated until you serve.

Conclusion

This Banana Split Cake is a simple, no-bake dessert that brings classic flavors together in one pan. For a traditional take on this layered cake, see Southern-Style Banana Split Cake Recipe. If you want another no-bake version with step-by-step photos, try No Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe – Lauren’s Latest. For a family-friendly tutorial with tips, read No-Bake Banana Split Cake | The Kitchen is My Playground. For a slightly different take on the same idea, check No-Bake Banana Split Cake | Syrup and Biscuits.