No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe
Introduction
Indulging in a delicious dessert doesn’t always have to involve turning on the oven. If you’re craving a sweet treat but don’t want to go through the hassle of baking, then this No-Bake Banana Split Cake recipe is perfect for you. With layers of creamy goodness and the classic flavors of a banana split, this delightful dessert will satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. So, let’s dive into this easy-to-make and mouthwatering dessert.
Ingredients
To create this heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 2 cups of crushed graham crackers
– 1/2 cup of melted butter
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
For the Filling:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 2 cups of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
– 1 can (20 ounces) of crushed pineapple, drained
– 1 cup of chopped fresh strawberries
– 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
– Maraschino cherries for garnish
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the mashed bananas and continue to beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese and banana mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Spread half of the cream cheese and banana filling over the graham cracker crust. Top with a layer of crushed pineapple, followed by a layer of chopped strawberries. Repeat the layers once more, ending with a layer of chopped strawberries. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the top.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries for an extra touch of sweetness. Cut into slices and enjoy!
Keto and Low Carb Variations
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can still enjoy the flavors of a banana split with a few modifications to this recipe. Instead of using graham crackers for the crust, substitute almond flour and melted butter. For the filling, use a combination of whipped coconut cream and cream cheese, sweetened with a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Replace the bananas with sliced avocados for a creamy and low-carb twist. Finally, opt for sugar-free crushed pineapple and strawberries to reduce the carb content further.
Tips
– Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
– Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
– If you prefer a sweeter filling, add more powdered sugar to taste.
– Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite fruits or nuts.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that will impress your friends and family. With its layers of creamy filling and fruity goodness, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe offers variations to suit your dietary needs. So, give it a try and indulge in the flavors of a classic banana split without turning on the oven.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of graham cracker crust, you can use crushed cookies or even a pre-made pie crust as an alternative.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until serving.
3. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
While fresh fruit is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen fruit if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain the fruit before using it in the recipe.
