The Art of Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cake Perfection

Perfect Crust Foundation

Master the technique of creating firm, flavorful graham cracker crust that holds layers.

Cream Layer Excellence

Learn the skill of achieving smooth, stable cream layers that won't separate or weep.

Fruit Preparation Mastery

Perfect the method of preparing fresh fruit to prevent moisture and maintain texture.

Layer Assembly Strategy

Master the art of creating even, stable layers for beautiful presentation and cutting.

Chilling and Setting Control

Learn optimal chilling techniques for proper texture development and easy serving.

No-Bake Cake Mastery Secrets for Perfect Banana Split Layers

Fruit Preparation: Pat fruit dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture in cake.

Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for smooth, lump-free layer.

Whipping Technique: Don't overwhip cream - stop at stiff peaks to prevent butter formation.

Chilling Time: Don't skip minimum chilling time - cake needs time to set properly.

Cutting Clean: Wipe knife clean between cuts for neat, professional-looking slices.

Assembly Speed: Work quickly with fruit layers to prevent excessive moisture release.

Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Layers of Cream and Fresh Fruit

Name: Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Layers of Cream and Fresh Fruit
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Graham Cracker Crust:; 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; For the Cream Cheese Layer:; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract; For the Whipped Cream Base:; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Fresh Fruit Layers:; 4 large ripe bananas, sliced; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped; For the Chocolate Elements:; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce; For the Pudding Layer:; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding; 1 1/2 cups cold milk; For the Topping Components:; 1 cup whipped topping; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

The ultimate no-bake banana split cake featuring layers of graham cracker crust, creamy vanilla filling, fresh bananas, strawberries, pineapple, and rich chocolate topping with whipped cream and cherries. This indulgent frozen dessert masterpiece combines all the classic flavors of a banana split sundae in convenient cake form, creating an unforgettable summer treat that elevates simple no-bake desserts to extraordinary heights perfect for parties, potlucks, hot weather, or any time you crave the perfect combination of fruity freshness, creamy richness, and nostalgic ice cream parlor flavors without turning on the oven.

Prep Time

30 Minutes

Cook Time

0 Minutes

Total Time

4H30 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup melted butter

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon almond extract

For the Whipped Cream Base:

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/3 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Fresh Fruit Layers:

4 large ripe bananas, sliced

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

For the Chocolate Elements:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup hot fudge sauce

For the Pudding Layer:

1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding

1 1/2 cups cold milk

For the Topping Components:

1 cup whipped topping

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Whole maraschino cherries for garnish

For the Stabilizers:

1 packet unflavored gelatin

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Flavor Enhancers:

1/4 teaspoon banana extract

1 tablespoon coconut extract

Zest of 1 lemon

For the Assembly Elements:

Plastic wrap for covering

Parchment paper

For Special Equipment:

9x13-inch baking dish

Electric mixer

Large mixing bowls

Rubber spatula

Offset spatula

Instructions

Line 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in bowl.

Mix crumb mixture until evenly moistened and holds together when pressed.

Press crust mixture firmly into bottom of prepared baking dish.

Refrigerate crust while preparing remaining layers for firmness.

Beat softened cream cheese until light and fluffy using electric mixer.

Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and almond extract to cream cheese.

Beat mixture until smooth and completely lump-free.

In separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to stiff peaks.

Gently fold half of whipped cream into cream cheese mixture.

Spread cream cheese layer evenly over graham cracker crust.

Prepare instant pudding according to package directions using cold milk.

Let pudding set for 5 minutes, then spread over cream cheese layer.

Toss sliced bananas with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Arrange banana slices in even layer over pudding.

Distribute sliced strawberries evenly over banana layer.

Spread drained crushed pineapple over strawberry layer.

Sprinkle chopped maraschino cherries over pineapple.

For chocolate topping, melt chocolate chips with cream and butter in microwave.

Stir chocolate mixture until smooth and glossy, then cool slightly.

Drizzle cooled chocolate mixture over fruit layers.

Spread remaining whipped cream over entire surface.

Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and pecans for crunch.

Garnish with whole cherries arranged decoratively on top.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for minimum 4 hours.

Chill overnight for best texture and flavor development.

Cut into squares using sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Serve immediately while cold for best texture and presentation.

Store leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Layers of Cream and Fresh Fruit

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cake Perfection

Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Layers of Cream and Fresh Fruit

Ingredients

Instructions