Is there anything more nostalgic than a banana split? This Classic Banana Split Delight transforms that beloved sundae into a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make, requires no baking, and brings a little sunshine to your table with every bite.
The base of this dessert is a simple yet flavorful graham cracker crumbs crust, held together with unsalted butter. The cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar creates a sweet, tangy layer that pairs well with the fruit. Bananas provide a classic flavor, while crushed pineapple adds a tropical twist. To make it irresistible, we whip heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract for a light, airy topping. Finish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, maraschino cherries, chopped nuts, and diced strawberries for a dessert that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
This dessert shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. For an extra special touch, serve with a side of freshly brewed iced tea or a sparkling lemonade to complement the fruity flavors.
Let’s start by making the crust. Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until the crumbs are well-coated, then press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan. This forms the base of your dessert, so make sure it’s compact and even.
Next, it’s time for the creamy layer. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Spread this evenly over your graham cracker crust. The cream cheese adds a tangy contrast to the sweet fruit layers.
Now, slice up those bananas and layer them over the cream cheese mixture. It doesn’t have to be perfect — just make sure each bite gets a taste of banana.
Once the bananas are in place, spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over them. This layer adds a juicy sweetness that balances the creaminess of the dessert.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This might take a few minutes, but it’s worth it for that light, fluffy finish. Spread the whipped cream over the pineapple layer, ensuring an even coverage.
Finally, drizzle chocolate syrup over the top, then sprinkle with chopped nuts, maraschino cherries, and diced strawberries. These toppings add texture, color, and a bit of whimsy. Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving to let the layers set beautifully.