Banana Split Layered Dessert

This Banana Split Layered Dessert is a crowd-pleaser that brings together all the nostalgia of an old-fashioned soda fountain sundae with the ease of an irresistible no bake treat perfect for potlucks family parties and hot summer evenings

The first time I made this my husband’s eyes lit up with every bite and now it is the most requested dessert for birthdays in our house

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: provide the sweet crunchy base look for brands with a deep toasty flavor
• Butter melted: binds the crust and brings richness use real butter for the best taste
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the base a fine white sugar blends in smoothly
• Cream cheese softened: lays the creamy tangy foundation pick a block style cream cheese for thick texture
• Powdered sugar: blends into the cream cheese layer without grittiness choose a fresh powdered sugar free from clumps
• Whipped topping: adds lightness to the creamy layers grab a tub of quality whipped topping for best results
• Bananas sliced: add fruity sweetness and are the classic banana split component ripe but not overripe bananas hold their shape best
• Crushed pineapple well drained: brings bright tang make sure to fully drain for layer stability
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: ensures a thick and creamy dessert choose a trusted brand for best vanilla flavor
• Cold milk: blends with the pudding to make it luscious use full fat milk for the richest layer
• Chopped walnuts or pecans: add crunch and toastiness freshly chopped nuts have the most flavor
• Chocolate syrup: creates that authentic sundae finish choose a thick syrup for pretty drizzling
• Maraschino cherries: are a fun retro garnish go for the brightest red ones for festive color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Crust:

Combine graham cracker crumbs granulated sugar and melted butter in a mixing bowl Stir until you see every crumb coated with butter Press this mix evenly into the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch baking dish You want a firm crust so press hard with a spatula or the bottom of a glass Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for ten minutes so the crust can set

Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:

In a separate bowl beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the mixture is silky smooth This may take two to three minutes for all lumps to disappear Fold in one cup of whipped topping using a spatula make sure you do not deflate the whipped topping Gently spread this cream layer over your chilled crust reaching all the corners for even distribution

Assemble the Banana and Pineapple Layer:

Slice ripe bananas into coins and carefully lay them across the cream cheese layer for total coverage Spoon well drained crushed pineapple evenly over the bananas In this step make sure to blot excess pineapple juice with a paper towel to prevent a soggy dessert

Prepare the Pudding Layer:

In a clean bowl whisk vanilla pudding mix with cold milk for two minutes until thickened but still pourable Watch for it to look glossy and slightly jiggly Pour the pudding over the fruit layer and use a spatula to carefully spread it out do not press down too much to avoid smooshing the fruit

Add the Final Layer:

Take the remaining whipped topping and gently spread it over the set pudding layer You want a smooth even surface for topping Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans evenly for crunch Drizzle chocolate syrup in a zigzag motion and add maraschino cherries dotted across the top for a festive finish

Chill the Dessert:

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours to let all the flavors meld and layers set perfectly The longer it chills the easier it slices

Save

My favorite part is the layer where creamy filling mixes with bananas bringing up sweet memories of visiting the boardwalk with my siblings and sharing a banana split after a long day

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator It stays fresh for three days and the flavors develop overnight For picnics or potlucks pack into smaller containers with lids for grab and go convenience

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out graham crackers for vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies for a unique twist If you want a nut free dessert simply skip the nuts on top and add extra fruit instead For a lighter version use reduced fat cream cheese and whipped topping

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is delightful on its own but you can also top slices with extra fresh berries shaved chocolate or a little extra drizzle of caramel sauce Serve straight from the fridge for best texture and flavor

Cultural and Historical Context

Banana splits are an American classic dating back over a century often found at ice cream parlors This dessert brings all that classic flavor to your table in casserole form making it easier to share and serve The layers are inspired by the classic banana split sundae including pineapple syrup and cherries

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Fresh pineapple may be used, but ensure it is well-drained and chopped finely to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long should the dessert chill before serving?

Allow at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set the layers and flavors properly.

→ What alternatives can I use for the nuts?

Omit nuts for allergies or use toasted coconut or extra chocolate syrup for added texture and taste.

→ Does freshly whipped cream work instead of whipped topping?

Yes, softly whipped cream can be substituted, but stabilize it for best texture in layered desserts.

→ Will browning bananas affect the layers?

Bananas may brown slightly over time. Add them just before assembling and cover well with other layers.

→ Can you make this dessert ahead of time?

Prepare up to a day in advance, but add toppings like nuts and syrup just before serving for freshness.