Banana Split Cake Recipe
Introduction
Banana Split Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the classic flavors of a banana split in a creamy, layered treat. It’s easy to make and perfect for sharing at any gathering.
Ingredients
- Bananas (ripe, sliced)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Chocolate (melted or chips)
- Crust (such as graham cracker or cookie crust)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the crust by pressing it evenly into the bottom of a serving dish.
- Step 2: Layer sliced bananas over the crust, spreading softened cream cheese on top.
- Step 3: Drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer.
- Step 4: Repeat layers if desired, then cover and chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use a combination of milk and dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Top with chopped nuts or maraschino cherries for extra texture and color.
- Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a creamier texture.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the cake for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld, making it ideal for preparing a day in advance.
What type of crust works best?
Graham cracker or cookie crusts work well, offering a sweet, crunchy base that complements the creamy layers.
PrintBanana Split Cake Recipe
Banana Split Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that captures the classic flavors of a banana split in a convenient layered cake form. This easy-to-make treat combines ripe bananas, creamy sweetened cream cheese, rich chocolate, and a buttery crust, all chilled to perfection for a refreshing and nostalgic dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for chocolate ganache)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan to form the crust layer. Chill in the refrigerator to set while preparing the rest.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This sweetened cream cheese layer adds a rich and tangy contrast to the bananas and chocolate.
- Assemble the banana layer: Slice the bananas thinly and arrange a layer over the chilled crust. This fresh fruit layer gives the cake its signature banana split flavor.
- Add the cream cheese layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the banana layer, making sure to cover all the bananas to prevent discoloration and to create a smooth surface for the topping.
- Prepare the chocolate ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Top the cake with chocolate: Pour the chocolate ganache over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or until firm. This chilling step ensures the layers set properly and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve cold for a refreshing, banana split-inspired dessert.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent the cake from becoming mushy.
- For a lighter dessert, substitute the heavy cream in the ganache with half-and-half or use a sugar-free cream cheese to reduce calories.
- Optional: Top the cake with chopped nuts or maraschino cherries for a more authentic banana split experience.
- The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: banana split cake, no-bake dessert, cream cheese dessert, chocolate ganache, layered cake
