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–+ servings
Banana Split Cake
Banana Split Cake is a nostalgic no-bake dessert that captures all the flavors of the classic ice cream treat in a chilled, layered form. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy filling of whipped topping and eggs, fresh bananas, pineapple, and a final layer of whipped cream, it is crowned with cherries and nuts for the perfect finishing touch. Popular at potlucks, summer parties, and church suppers, this cake is beloved for its refreshing, fruity sweetness and its simplicity, no oven required. A true vintage American classic, it combines layers of texture and flavor in a way that’s both familiar and exciting.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tbsp butter (melted )
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 stick oleo (or butter, softened)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 bananas (sliced lengthwise)
  • 20 oz crushed pineapple (drained)
  • 8 oz Cool Whip (or whipped topping)
  • ¾ cup ground nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • maraschino cherries (whole or halved, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Crust

  • Mix together 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs and 6 tbsp melted butter.
  • Press firmly into a 9x13-inch dish to form the base.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  • Beat 2 cups powdered sugar and 1 stick softened butter until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs and vanilla. Beat again until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Layer the Filling

  • Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the crust.

Step 4: Add Bananas

  • Slice bananas lengthwise and arrange evenly over the filling.

Step 5: Add Pineapple

  • Spread drained crushed pineapple over the banana layer.

Step 6: Top with Whipped Cream

  • Spread Cool Whip (or whipped topping) evenly across the top.

Step 7: Garnish

  • Sprinkle with ground nuts. Dot with maraschino cherries for decoration.

Step 8: Chill

  • Refrigerate overnight before serving to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.

Tips

  • Use pasteurized eggs only since the filling is not baked.
  • Substitute eggs with cream cheese or custard mix if avoiding raw eggs.
  • Toast the nuts lightly for deeper flavor and extra crunch.
  • Add sliced strawberries for a more “banana split” flavor profile.
  • Drizzle chocolate syrup or hot fudge over the top before chilling.
  • Swap whipped topping for homemade whipped cream if preferred.
  • Use gluten-free graham crackers if needed.
  • Layer in a trifle bowl for a show-stopping presentation.
  • Freeze briefly before slicing for extra-clean cuts.
  • Add crushed cookies instead of graham crumbs for variation.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 4gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7.4gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 260mgPotassium: 270mgFiber: 3gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword banana dessert, creamy pudding dessert, no-bake cake, pineapple dessert, potluck dessert, retro cake, summer dessert, vintage recipe
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