Description
This No Bake Banana Split Dessert is a layered, creamy treat that combines a graham cracker crust with a smooth cream cheese and whipped topping base, layered with fresh bananas, crushed pineapple, and strawberries. Topped with walnuts, chocolate syrup, and maraschino cherries, this refreshing dessert requires no baking and is perfect for a crowd, chilling for a few hours to let flavors meld beautifully.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Cream Cheese Layer
- 12 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces cool whip
Fruit Layers
- 3-4 bananas (sliced)
- 20 ounces canned crushed pineapple (drained well)
- 16 ounces strawberries (hulled and sliced)
Topping
- 8 ounces cool whip
- 1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
- Chocolate syrup (to taste)
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly and set aside to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a solid crust layer.
- Mix Cream Cheese Layer: Using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 8 ounces of cool whip with a rubber spatula until fully combined and spread evenly over the graham cracker crust, reaching all edges to create a consistent layer.
- Add Banana Layer: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly on top of the cream cheese layer. You can do one or multiple layers depending on preference and amount of bananas.
- Layer Pineapple: Spread the well-drained crushed pineapple evenly over the banana slices to contribute a juicy, tropical layer.
- Layer Strawberries: Evenly layer the sliced strawberries on top of the pineapple. You may add several layers to use all strawberries, creating a bright red, flavorful layer.
- Top with Cool Whip: Spread the remaining 8 ounces of cool whip evenly over the strawberries to give a light and creamy finishing layer.
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top, drizzle with chocolate syrup according to taste, and add maraschino cherries for a classic banana split look and flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the entire dessert for up to 4 hours before slicing and serving to allow layers to set and flavors to develop fully.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are sliced just before assembling to prevent browning.
- The dessert can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated for convenience.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or substitute with coconut flakes.
- Use fresh strawberries and drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid a soggy crust.
- Adjust the amount of chocolate syrup to your preference for sweetness and decoration.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American