Banana 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
Scale
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
Find it online: https://cookwithyana.com/banana-split-cake-recipe/
