Description

This No Bake Banana Split Dessert is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that layers a buttery graham cracker crust with creamy sweetened cream cheese, fresh bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and fluffy whipped topping. Finished with chopped nuts, chocolate syrup drizzle, and maraschino cherries, it perfectly mimics the classic banana split flavor in a convenient layered dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Cream Cheese Layer

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

Fruit Layer

3-4 bananas (sliced)
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup strawberries (hulled and sliced)

Topping and Garnish

2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing firmly to create a solid crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other layers.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until well combined. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
Add the Fruit Layer: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer. Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas. Top with an even layer of sliced strawberries.
Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the fruit layer.
Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the whipped topping. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and garnish with maraschino cherries.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer.
Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent the dessert from becoming soggy.
Use fresh ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture, slicing just before assembling to avoid browning.
For a nut-free version, omit the chopped walnuts or pecans and add extra fruit garnish instead.
Keep refrigerated until serving to maintain the dessert’s structure and freshness.