This cool and creamy No Bake Banana Split Cake is everything you could want for a summer picnic! An easy recipe that takes only 30 minutes and needs no baking, makes it the perfect dessert for the season.
With layers of cool, creamy custard, fresh fruit, and a topping of cool whip, this ice box treat is like a banana split in cake form. It's the perfect dessert to whip up for summer BBQs and friendly get-togethers.
Why This is the Best Banana Split Cake Recipe
There are so many reasons this no-bake dessert will become your go-to for warm-weather gatherings.
Tastes like a banana split - All the classic flavors you love, including bananas, pineapple, whipped topping, chocolate, nuts, and cherries, come together in every bite.
Custard-based like the real dessert - This banana split cake without cream cheese is layered with a light, fluffy custard filling. Since traditional ice cream is made with custard, it gives this dessert that classic banana split flavor and feel without the scoop.
Easy to make - Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze, even for beginner bakers.
No oven required - Perfect for hot days when you don't want to turn on the oven. Just mix, layer, and chill.
Great for make-ahead - Make it the day before and let it chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Feeds a crowd - Made in a 9x13 pan, it's perfect for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
Ingredients and Their Part in the Cake
This layered dessert comes together with simple ingredients that each add flavor and texture.
Graham cracker crust
- Graham cracker crumbs - forms the base and adds a slightly sweet crunch
- Sugar - enhances the sweetness of the crust
- Unsalted butter - binds everything together and adds richness
- Salt - balances the sweetness
Custard filling
- Powdered sugar - sweetens and helps create a smooth texture
- Salted butter - gives the filling richness and structure
- Eggs - create a light, custard-like texture
- Vanilla extract - adds warm, sweet flavor
Toppings
- Bananas - bring that classic banana split flavor
- Crushed pineapple - adds a juicy, tropical sweetness
- Cool Whip - creates a light, fluffy topping
- Chopped nuts - add crunch and contrast
- Maraschino cherries - the signature banana split finish
- Chocolate fudge sauce - adds that rich chocolate drizzle
How to Make a No-Bake Banana Split Cake
This dessert comes together quickly with just a few simple steps.
Graham Cracker Crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar and salt in small bowl. Add melted butter and stir well.
- Press gently into a 9x13-inch pan. Note: If you press it down too firmly it will be difficult to cut and lift from the pan when serving.
At this point, the crust can be frozen for about 10-15 minutes or can be baked for a bit crunchier texture for 10 minutes at 350°F, then allowed to cool.
Custard Layer
- Combine room temperature butter with sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure the butter has softened sufficiently for a smooth mixture, about an hour on the counter will do the job.
- Whip until light and fluffy about 3-4 minutes at medium speed. The mixture should be pale yellow in color.
To Assemble
- Remove the crust from the freezer or use the cooled crust from the oven.
- Spread the custard evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- The next layer is made with sliced bananas. You want to use ripe but still firm bananas. Make sure to cover the custard completely.
- Cover the bananas with the drained crushed pineapple. Spread evenly. This layer actually helps to prevent the bananas from browning (at least for a while).
- Spread the Cool Whip over the crushed pineapple to create a smooth top.
- Time to decorate! Sprinkle on the chopped nuts. I like to use pecans but walnuts or even peanuts would be great.
- Next comes the fudge sauce drizzle. Make it easy by heating the fudge sauce slightly then pouring it into a small ziploc bag. Clip a small corner off and squeeze the chocolate over the topping.
- Finish it off with cherries placed so that each slice or serving will have its own cherry. You can also wait until just before serving and pipe on some additional whipped cream on each serving then place the cherry on top. It's your sundae - go for it!
Recipe Tips for Success
A few simple tips will help you get perfect results every time.
- Make sure to drain the pineapple really well so the dessert doesn't get watery.
- Slice the bananas just before layering to keep them fresh.
- Use ripe but firm bananas so they hold their shape.
- Chilling overnight gives the best texture and makes slicing easier.
Recipe Notes and Variations to Make It Your Own
There are lots of fun ways to switch things up depending on what you have on hand.
- Make it a banana split pie by using two pie pans or pre-made graham cracker crusts.
- Turn it into a banana split trifle by layering everything in a trifle dish.
- Swap the custard for a cream cheese filling for a richer option.
- Use vanilla or banana pudding instead of custard for an easy shortcut.
- Try a vanilla wafer or Oreo crust for a different flavor base.
- Replace pineapple with strawberries or add a layer of both.
- Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce instead of chocolate fudge.
- Add sprinkles for a fun, kid-friendly touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
This dessert is perfect for making ahead, which makes entertaining so much easier.
You can prepare it 1 to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture and appearance, enjoy it within the first day or two since the bananas may soften over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use raw eggs in this recipe?
If you're concerned about using raw eggs, you can use pasteurized eggs. You can also substitute the custard with a cream cheese filling or pudding.
Can I freeze banana split cake?
It's not recommended, as the texture of the bananas and whipped topping can change once thawed.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! It's actually better when made ahead and chilled overnight.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely. Just chop it into small pieces and drain it well before adding.
More Delicious Summer Desserts
Fresh Fruit Tart - brings all the summer flavors to the table. An almond shortbread crust holds a layer of creamy lemon cheesecake filling topped with your favorite fruits of the summer season.
No Bake Mocha Cheesecake Minis - are small but decadent. Switch up the graham crackers to Oreo crumbs and layer with mocha cheesecake then top with whipped cream and an espresso bean to give you a gourmet dessert that only takes 20 minutes.
Frozen Raspberry Dessert from Kitchen Gidget is a cool and creamy dessert filled with ice cream, raspberries, fudge, and whipped cream.
Creamy Raspberry Lemonade Popsicles - are an easy-to-make summer treat. Just 3 ingredients (yogurt, lemonade, and raspberries) are all it takes for a refreshing healthy snack on a hot day.
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No Bake Banana Split Cake
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 4 Tablespoons sugar
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Custard Filling
- 2 cups confectioner's sugar
- 1 cup salted butter room temperature
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 4-5 ripe bananas sliced
- 1 can (20-oz) crushed pineapple, drained or up to 3 8-oz cans, drained
- 10 oz Cool Whip
- Chopped nuts
- Maraschino cherries drained
- Chocolate fudge sauce
Instructions
- Butter the bottom of a 13"x9"x2" pan.
Graham Cracker Crust
- Prepare graham cracker crust by mixing all 4 ingredients together.
- Gently press the crumbs into the bottom of prepared pan.
- Freeze for 10-15 minutes or bake for 10 minutes at 350°F then let cool completely on wire rack. This baking process will help keep the crust crispy.
Custard Filling
- While crust is chilling or baking, prepare the filling.
- Combine all ingredients for filling and beat for 3-4 minutes at medium speed. When the mixture appears light and fluffy and is pale yellow in color it is done.
- Pour into chilled or cooled crust.
Toppings
- Layer sliced bananas on top of filling.
- Spread drained crushed pineapple on top of bananas.
- Top with Cool Whip, spreading evenly to edges.
- Decorate with a sprinkling of nuts then drizzle with fudge sauce and top with some cherries.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours but it is best when made the day before and chilled overnight.
Notes
Nutrition
This post has been updated with more variations and tips. It was first published on June 27, 2021.
