If you’re searching for a showstopping dessert that delivers nostalgia, color, and a glorious mix of creamy, crunchy, and fruity layers, look no further than this Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust. Imagine the beloved flavors of a classic banana split—all the juiciness, creaminess, and hint of chocolate—transformed into a sliceable, crowd-pleasing cake you can prep ahead with zero oven time. Each bite melds buttery graham cracker crunch, rich cheesecake-like filling, bright tropical fruit, and a fluffy whipped cloud on top, with all the magic of maraschino cherries and drizzled chocolate. It’s the kind of fun dessert that’s equally perfect for potlucks, summer parties, or mixing up your next family gathering.

Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust comes together with pantry basics and vibrant fruit. Every ingredient plays a central role in building the signature taste, texture, and joyful presentation of this dessert, so don’t leave anything out!

Graham cracker crumbs: These become the irresistible base, adding crunch and that iconic, toasty graham flavor.
Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together and lends a rich, comforting taste.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to let all the other flavors shine.
Cream cheese, softened: Brings a creamy, tangy layer reminiscent of classic cheesecake.
Unsalted butter, softened: Combines with the cream cheese for a silky, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the creamy layer and creates a smooth, stable texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet layers and balances out the richness.
Bananas, sliced: Deliver iconic banana split flavor and a naturally creamy bite.
Crushed pineapple, drained well: Adds tropical juiciness and that little tangy punch.
Fresh strawberries, diced: Lend color, juiciness, and a fresh, summery pop.
Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream: Finishes the cake with a light, fluffy lift that ties everything together.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Sprinkle over the top for a touch of crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
Chocolate syrup for drizzling: A must-have for visual effect and a classic banana split taste.
Maraschino cherries: The signature garnish that makes this dessert simply irresistible!

How to Make Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Use a fork (or your hands—no judgment here!) to mix everything until it’s the consistency of wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. This crust layer is the backbone of your Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust, so take a moment to really pack it in—it needs to hold up under all those dreamy layers. Pop the dish in the fridge to set while you handle the filling.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Layer

Grab a large bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until you have a gloriously smooth, lump-free mixture. Add in your powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until it’s light, fluffy, and almost irresistible (don’t sneak too many tastes!). Spread this creamy goodness carefully and evenly over the chilled crust. This is what gives your Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust its dreamy, cheesecake-like bite.

Step 3: Add the Fruit Layers

Now for the fun, fruity showstopper: Arrange the banana slices in a single, even layer over the cream cheese mixture. Next, spoon the well-drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, spreading it gently to cover. Finish this step with a generous sprinkle of diced fresh strawberries. These vibrant layers make this dessert sing with color and flavor, just like a classic banana split.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream

Spoon (or pipe, if you’re feeling fancy) the fluffy whipped topping or homemade whipped cream over the fruit. Spread it gently to the edges to create a billowy, cake-like top. This layer locks in all the freshness and adds that luscious, cloud-like touch to your Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Now, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts if you love a bit of crunch on your cake. Drizzle chocolate syrup in zig-zags or artistic swirls across the surface, and crown the top with plenty of maraschino cherries. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) so the layers have time to set and all the flavors meld together. Slice, serve, and try not to be stunned by all the “wows” you hear from the first bite!

How to Serve Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust

Garnishes

Don’t skip the finishing touches! A handful of chopped nuts, a generous drizzle of chocolate syrup, and maraschino cherries dotting the top create an eye-catching finale that pays direct tribute to the iconic banana split. For extra pizzazz, try a dusting of rainbow sprinkles or a pinch of toasted coconut. Each garnish adds visual excitement and a different flavor twist, elevating every slice to celebration status.

Side Dishes

Balance the richness of your Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust by serving it with light and refreshing sides. Think crisp fruit salad, a platter of citrus wedges, or even a scoop of sorbet for that extra chill. If you’re feeling grown-up, a cup of fresh black coffee or a splash of dessert wine will also pair beautifully with the creamy, fruity layers.

Creative Ways to Present

There’s so much versatility here! Cut the cake into neat squares for easy serving at potlucks or parties, or layer it into clear mason jars for adorable individual servings. For a more formal twist, serve in elegant trifle glasses with an extra cherry on top. However you slice it (or scoop it), this dessert always draws a crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen with time, so don’t be afraid to enjoy a chilled slice the next day!

Freezing

If you’d like to save leftovers for longer, you can freeze individual portions. Just place slices in an airtight container or wrap them well before freezing. Thaw them in the fridge overnight, note that the fruit may release a little extra moisture, but it’s still perfectly wonderful and satisfying.

Reheating

This is a no-bake, serve-chilled dessert, so reheating isn’t needed. Simply slice, serve straight from the refrigerator, and savor every cool, creamy bite. If it’s frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge until it’s back to its layered glory.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust a day ahead?

Absolutely! This dessert actually gets better as it chills, so prepping it a day ahead means deeper flavor and perfect layers. Just keep it well-covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t have Cool Whip? Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream if you prefer. Whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form, and use it in place of store-bought whipped topping for a fresher flavor.

Can I swap the fruit for different berries or use fresh pineapple?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or even slices of kiwi are delicious. If using fresh pineapple, chop it finely and drain very well to avoid extra moisture.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free graham crackers for the regular ones, or use a gluten-free vanilla wafer cookie as your base. The results will be just as delicious.

How can I keep the bananas from browning?

If you’re worried about the bananas browning, you can lightly brush the slices with a bit of lemon juice before layering them into the cake. This technique will help keep your Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust looking just as fresh on day two.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both easy and irresistibly fun, give this Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust a spot in your recipe rotation. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings nostalgia, cheer, and classic flavors to every table—no oven required. Dive in, have fun with garnishes, and don’t forget to savor every creamy, fruity, crunchy forkful!