Classic Banana Split Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 12
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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.

Ingredients for Classic Banana Split Delight

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.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a firmer crust, press the graham cracker mixture with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.
  • Use ripe, but not overripe bananas to avoid mushiness.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for quicker, more stable peaks.
  • Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid a soggy dessert.

Serving Suggestions

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Just cover tightly and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
What if I don’t like nuts?
You can omit them or substitute with crushed cookies or additional fruit.
Is there a way to make this dessert lighter?
Use light cream cheese and opt for a sugar substitute in the whipped cream.

Classic Banana Split Delight Recipe Walkthrough

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.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Transforms a classic ice cream treat into a sharable dessert form.
  • Easy, no-bake preparation — ideal for hot days or busy schedules.
  • Rich flavors and textures — think creamy, crunchy, fruity, and nutty all in one bite.
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 ripe bananas
20 oz can crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup chocolate syrup
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1/4 cup diced strawberries
1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, pressing into a 9x13 inch pan to form the crust.
2. Beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth, spreading evenly over the crust.
3. Slice bananas and layer on top of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Evenly spread the drained pineapple over the bananas.
5. Whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, then spread over the pineapple layer.
6. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the whipped cream and sprinkle chopped nuts, maraschino cherries, and strawberries on top.
7. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

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