This No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake combines all the nostalgic flavors of a banana split with the creamy goodness of cheesecake! Perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you want a refreshing, fruit-filled dessert, it’s easy to make, delicious, and doesn’t even require an oven.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
Fruit Layers:
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
Toppings:
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Additional banana slices, maraschino cherries, and chocolate pieces for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to create the crust.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully combined.
Layer the Cheesecake: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Layer sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, and maraschino cherries on top of this cream cheese layer.
Add Remaining Cheesecake Layer: Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture on top of the fruit layer, creating a smooth surface.
Top and Chill: Drizzle the top with chocolate syrup and caramel sauce for added flavor. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, additional banana slices, maraschino cherries, and chocolate pieces for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy!
Notes and Tips:
- Banana Slices: Dip the banana slices in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the cheesecake to prevent browning.
- Fruit Options: Add more fruits like strawberries or blueberries if desired.
- Serving Tip: This dessert is best served chilled and can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.
FAQs:
Can I make this dessert ahead of time? A: Yes! You can make it up to a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping? A: Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream will work well; just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.
Is there a gluten-free option? A: Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is a fun, fruity twist on classic cheesecake that’s sure to please any crowd. With its vibrant colors and delicious layers, it’s a perfect dessert for sharing with family and friends—no oven needed!
