If you have a sweet tooth but want something refreshing and surprisingly easy to make, the Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe is going to be your new favorite dessert. This vibrant treat captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic banana split but turns it into a luscious, creamy cake that doesn’t require an oven. Layers of crumbly graham cracker crust meet a rich cream cheese filling, then come alive with fresh bananas, strawberries, tangy pineapple, and a cloud of whipped topping, all crowned with cherries and optional chocolate drizzle. It’s a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself anytime you crave something delightful and fuss-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white rectangular dish with three visible layers. The bottom layer is crushed pineapple, light yellow with a slightly juicy texture. The middle layer is whole and halved fresh strawberries, bright red with visible seeds and soft texture spread evenly on top of the pineapple. The top layer is two large dollops of white whipped cream placed on the strawberries, one dollop holding a blue spatula with light brown wooden handles, resting slightly on the fruit. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering fresh and straightforward ingredients is half the fun with this Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe. Each component brings something special to the table, from the buttery crust to the fresh fruit bursts, making every bite a celebration of flavor and texture.

2 cups graham crackers: Crushed finely for a crisp, buttery base that holds your layers together beautifully.
½ cup butter (melted): Adds richness to the crust and helps bind the crumbs perfectly.
½ cup white sugar: Sweetens the crust modestly, balancing the tangy fruit layers.
16 ounces cream cheese: Provides a creamy, smooth filling that’s decadently rich without overpowering.
1 cup confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese filling to dreamy perfection.
4 bananas (sliced): Fresh and natural sweetness with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1 ½ cups strawberries (sliced): Adds tartness and vibrant color to brighten the cake.
15 ounces crushed pineapple (canned, drained): Offers tropical tang and juicy bursts between layers.
8 ounces whipped topping: Light and fluffy, it adds airiness to the dessert’s surface.
15 maraschino cherries (drained): Classic, sweet, and a wonderful pop of color for garnish.
⅓ cup peanuts (optional topping): Adds a pleasing crunch and nutty contrast to the creamy layers.
¼ cup chocolate sauce (optional drizzle): Makes the cake even more indulgent with its rich, velvety finish.

How to Make Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by placing your graham crackers in a large ziplock bag and crush them finely using a rolling pin or your hands — get them as fine as possible for that perfect crust texture. Then melt your butter carefully in the microwave until just runny but not hot. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and white sugar, stirring until the crumbs are completely coated and clump slightly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form a thin, firm crust. Pop it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to help it set.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling

Soften the cream cheese by microwaving it for 30 to 40 seconds, checking and stirring to get it smooth without warming it too much. Use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with the confectioners’ sugar; begin slowly to avoid a sugar cloud, then switch to high speed, whipping for about a minute until silky smooth and fluffy. Spread this luscious filling evenly over your chilled graham cracker crust, setting the stage for the fresh fruit layers to shine.

Step 3: Add the Fruit Layers

Now for the fun part. Layer the banana slices evenly on top of the cream cheese, spacing them carefully so every forkful gets a fruity bite. Follow with a layer of drained crushed pineapple, spreading gently without mixing it into the bananas. Then add a layer of the vibrant sliced strawberries, letting the colors contrast beautifully for a visually stunning dessert.

Step 4: Finish with Whipped Topping and Garnishes

Top everything with a generous, even spread of softened whipped topping, smoothing it out with a spatula to create a fluffy cloud over the fruit layers. Decorate the top with bright maraschino cherries and a scattering of peanuts if you like a bit of crunch. Finally, chill the whole cake for at least two hours or overnight so the flavors meld and the cake firms up nicely. Just before serving, drizzle with chocolate sauce if you want an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Serve Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe

A white rectangular dish filled with a thick, smooth layer of white whipped cream. On top, bright red cherries are evenly placed across the surface. Dark chocolate syrup is drizzled in a random pattern over the whipped cream and cherries, adding contrast. Scattered roasted peanuts are sprinkled over the dish, giving texture. The dish is set on a white marbled surface with a white bowl of peanuts and a bowl of cherries nearby. There is also a whole banana partly visible on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Maraschino cherries and chopped peanuts bring classic banana split flair and a delightful mix of textures. For a little extra wow, drizzle chocolate sauce in a zigzag or circular pattern right before serving. You can also freshen it up with a light sprinkle of shredded coconut or a few mint leaves for a refreshing twist.

Side Dishes

This cake is a showstopper on its own but goes brilliantly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side. For a contrasting texture, serve it alongside crispy waffle cones or freshly baked cookies for a fun and playful dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe in individual glass cups or jars for easy portioning at parties. Layer the ingredients in transparent containers to showcase the colorful layers beautifully. You could also cut the cake into smaller squares and stick a decorative paper umbrella or fruit skewer into each for a tropical party vibe everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, but the bananas may brown slightly, so it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for the freshest look.

Freezing

Freezing this cake isn’t recommended because the fresh fruit layers can become mushy upon thawing. If you want to prep in advance, assemble the crust and cream cheese layers ahead of time and keep those frozen separately, then add fresh fruit and final toppings on the day you plan to serve.

Reheating

Since this dessert is best served chilled and fresh, reheating isn’t needed. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before slicing to soften the cream cheese layer slightly for easier cutting and eating.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with something else?

While the cream cheese filling is key for that rich, tangy taste that balances the sweet fruit, you could try a mascarpone or ricotta mixture for a milder, less tangy flavor. Just make sure to add enough sugar to maintain the sweetness and whip it well for fluffiness.

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

Crushed digestive biscuits, cinnamon sugar cookies, or plain vanilla wafers work wonderfully as a crust substitute and introduce slight variations in flavor. Just crush finely and adjust the sugar slightly depending on how sweet the cookies are.

Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?

You can definitely give a plant-based spin to this dessert by using dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and vegan whipped topping. Check the crust ingredients to ensure the crackers are vegan, and swap butter for a neutral coconut oil or vegan margarine.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm with minimal brown spots. Overripe bananas can turn mushy and create a soggy texture, while underripe bananas won’t provide enough natural sweetness and softness.

Is there a way to make this cake less sweet?

Absolutely! Reduce the sugar in the crust and cream cheese filling by a quarter or half if you prefer a less sugary treat. Balancing fresh fruit’s natural tartness with less refined sugar makes this dessert feel more refreshing and light.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe is like inviting a burst of sunshine into your kitchen and onto your dessert table. Its bright colors, luscious textures, and nostalgic banana split flavors come together in a no-fuss, no-oven-needed creation that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving an easy summer dessert, or just want to treat yourself, this cake truly brings joy in every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to make it and share all your delicious moments!