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Delicious, rich and creamy, with all the ingredients you love in a banana split, this no-bake Banana Split dessert will be one you make again and again.
An Irresistible No Bake Banana Split Dessert
As the days grow warmer, we naturally start looking forward to picnics, BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings. But with these events comes the age-old question: What should I bring? You want something easy and quick, yet undeniably delicious. And let’s be honest, when it’s blazing hot outside, the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven. That’s where this No Bake Banana Split Dessert comes in! It’s perfect for all the summer grilling and chilling, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only is this dessert incredibly easy to assemble, but it also bursts with the classic banana split flavors we all adore—without the need for baking. It’s a creamy, fruity delight that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowls
- 9×13 glass or porcelain dish
- Rubber spatula
- Electric mixer
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 1 box graham cracker crumbs
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 4 bananas, sliced
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (16 oz) container Cool-Whip, thawed or 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 (4 oz) jar maraschino cherries, stemmed
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- Hot fudge sauce, slightly warmed
- 1 tablespoon rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
- Firmly press into a crust in the bottom of a 9×13 glass or porcelain dish, then let it chill in the freezer for about 10 minutes to firm up.
- In another medium bowl, cream together the cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, and powdered sugar until creamy, about 5 minutes. Be patient, as it will blend perfectly without the need for milk.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust.
- Add a layer of sliced bananas over the cream cheese mixture, followed by a layer of crushed pineapple.
- Evenly spread the Cool-Whip over the pineapple-banana layer using a rubber spatula.
- Garnish with the chopped nuts and maraschino cherries.
- Drizzle the chocolate fudge over the dessert and sprinkle the rainbow sprinkles on top.
- Chill for at least 4 hours before cutting to allow the layers to set.
Tips for Success
Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the cream layer. Patience is key when blending the cream cheese, butter, and sugar mixture—it will become smooth without additional liquid.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to customize your dessert with different toppings such as shredded coconut or chocolate chips. For a tropical twist, try adding some shredded coconut between the layers!
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dessert is indulgent, so keep in mind it’s a treat best enjoyed in moderation. Each serving provides a delightful combination of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dessert ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until serving.
What can I use instead of Cool-Whip? You can substitute with heavy whipping cream for a fresher taste.
Conclusion
This No Bake Banana Split Dessert is a surefire hit for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and delightful flavors make it a go-to summer treat. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you explore with this recipe. Enjoy!
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