This scrumptious no bake Banana Split Dessert is fun, fresh and fruity! Reminiscent of a classic banana split, this easy dessert is made with layers of graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake mousse, sliced bananas, fresh strawberries and sweet pineapples. It’s all beautifully topped with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, salted peanuts and of course, a cherry on top!
In the mood for more unique cheesecake recipes? Try this Strawberry Blueberry Mini Cheesecake Trifle, No Bake Cherry Cheesecake, or amazing Pina Colada Cheesecake Mousse!
No Bake Banana Split Dessert
We all scream for ice cream, but sometimes it’s a bit of a mess when feeding a crowd. As an alternative, try this easy Banana Split Dessert! All your favorite flavors of that classic treat from childhood in a much easier to serve dessert.
A little bit cheesecake, a little bit icebox cake, this dessert really has it all. Make it the night before, let it chill, top with all the best toppings, and serve to a table full of smiles. Layers of graham cracker crust, cheesecake, fresh bananas, juicy strawberries and pineapple all topped with your favorite banana split toppings. Sprinkles, nuts, whipped cream, chocolate sauce and don’t forget the maraschino cherries!
This easy Banana Split Dessert is a great option for birthday parties, summer BBQ, special get togethers, or just a quick and easy weekend treat!
The Best No Bake Desserts
- No Bake Cookies
- Cannoli Dip
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars (Buckeye Bars)
- Caramel Cream Cheese Apple Dip
- Chocolate Mint Dessert (No Bake!)
Banana Split Dessert Ingredients
A twist on a classic dessert that’s fun for the whole family! As always, you can find the full printable recipe with complete instructions in the recipe card at the end of this post. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need…
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- graham cracker crumbs – You’ll need about 3 sleeves of graham crackers.
- butter – Preferably unsalted and melted.
- granulated sugar – For added sweetness.
- salt – Just a pinch. If using salted butter you can leave this out.
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- cream cheese – Let it thaw to room temperature for easier mixing.
- unsalted butter – Also at room temperature.
- sour cream – You can substitute with Greek yogurt if you have that on hand.
- powdered sugar – To sweeten up the tart flavors in the cream cheese and sour cream.
- lemon juice – I prefer fresh squeezed when possible.
- vanilla extract – For warmth and spice.
- whipped topping – You can use defrosted store bought, or your favorite homemade whipped topping.
For the Toppings:
- bananas – Three to four bananas, not overly ripe, sliced.
- strawberries – Fresh strawberries are needed for this recipe. Trim and slice thinly.
- crushed pineapple – You’ll want the kind that comes in the juice but we will thoroughly drain the pineapples when using.
- whipped topping – This is optional but really makes this dessert look like a classic banana split. You can also use fresh whipped cream.
- salted peanuts – The peanuts are optional, as are all of the toppings, but if using, chop finely.
- chocolate syrup – Or hot fudge sauce, or even caramel sauce will do the trick.
- maraschino cherries – Can’t forget the cherry on top!
- sprinkles – Any color you like!
How To Make This Easy Banana Split Dessert
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Prep a 9×13 inch baking dish by spraying it with your preferred non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir until fully incorporated and a crust is formed.
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the baking dish. Use a glass to even out the crust.
- Chill in the fridge while you make the cheesecake layer.
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- Combine the room temperature cream cheese, softened butter, sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl.
- Use an electric mixer to beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar a little at a time and beat until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the whipped topping and mix once more.
- Remove the chilled crust from the fridge and spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
For the Toppings:
- Start with the banana slices and add them evenly across the cheesecake layer. Add the strawberries then the drained crushed pineapple.
- Spread the additional whipped topping over the fruit layer.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator to set. Chill for 6 hours or overnight.
To Serve:
- Drizzle the chocolate syrup or melted hot fudge sauce over the top. Pipe or add dollops of whipped cream over top.
- Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and sprinkles on top and finish with a maraschino cherry on top of each whipped cream dollop.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Trish’s Tips and Tricks
- Full fat cream cheese and full fat sour cream will give you a richer flavor and holds everything together well.
- Switch up the rainbow sprinkles to fit holidays or party decor.
- You can leave off the peanuts entirely or only put them on half if some guests don’t like nuts.
- You can use classic graham crackers or try a honey, chocolate, or cinnamon version!
Storage Information
Leftover servings of this Banana Split Dessert can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, place dessert in an airtight freezer safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Can be served frozen or you can defrost in the refrigerator.
Banana Split Dessert FAQs
Can This Dessert Be Made Ahead of Time?
It sure can. Actually, it’s easiest if it’s made the night or even a couple days before. The cheesecake and crust both need to be chilled in order to set before adding the final few toppings and serving. I recommend making this dessert at least the day before you plan on serving so you know it’s ready on time.
Can I Use Different Toppings?
Of course! This version is to invoke the image of a classic banana split, but it’s absolutely up to interpretation and preference. Try a chocolate graham cracker crust, strawberry or caramel syrup, walnuts instead of peanuts, or even use blueberries or blackberries and leave off the pineapple. It’s all up to you!
Recipes To Make You Go B-A-N-A-N-A-S
- Banana Caramel Cream Dessert
- Banana Nutella Trifle
- Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding
- Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Banana Split Cheesecake
How To Make Banana Split Dessert
Banana Split Dessert
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs about 3 sleeves
- ¾ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese room temperature (full fat cream cheese works best
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
- ¼ cup sour cream full fat works best but greek yogurt can also be used
- 1 ⅔ cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice fresh squeezed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping defrosted OR homemade whipped topping
Toppings
- 3 to 4 bananas sliced
- 16 ounces strawberries sliced
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple in juice thoroughly drained
- 8 ounces whipped topping defrosted OR homemade whipped cream, optional
- ¼ cup salted peanuts chopped
- ¼ cup chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce
- maraschino cherries
- sprinkles
Instructions
- Lightly spray the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
Graham Cracker Crust
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar and salt in a medium mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to get it even. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill as you prepare the cream cheese layer.
Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the cream cheese, butter, sour cream, lemon juice and vanilla extract.
- Beat on medium speed until the cheesecake is smooth and creamy, making sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually, beating until well incorporated, making sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
- Fold in the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the graham cracker crust.
Toppings
- Add the fruit to the top of the cheesecake starting with the banana slices, then the strawberries and then the drained, crushed pineapple. Make sure to evenly distribute the fruit over the top of the cheesecake layer.
- Spread the whipped topping evenly on top of the fruit layer.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or preferably, overnight.
To Serve
- Drizzle chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce over the top. Pipe on some whipped cream.
- Sprinkle the peanuts and sprinkles on top and finish with the maraschino cherries.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
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