Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with every creamy, fruity bite of Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust! This spectacular dessert captures everything magical about a classic banana split, turning it into a fuss-free cake you can serve right from your fridge. Imagine ripples of velvety cream cheese, a buttery graham cracker crust, juicy layers of fruit, and a mountain of whipped cream—all crowned with a cherry and chocolate drizzle. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a potluck, or a simple summer treat, this no-oven-needed cake will sweep everyone off their feet.

Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something truly special about how a handful of familiar, colorful ingredients can come together to offer such joyful flavors. Every layer of this cake brings its own note of richness, freshness, or crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to create the magic of Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust and why each ingredient is a superstar!
- Graham cracker crumbs: These form the sweet, sandy base that perfectly mimics an ice cream cone and stays sturdy without baking.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Holds the graham cracker crust together, adding flavor and richness for that irresistible bite.
- Granulated sugar: Slightly sweetens the crust and balances the buttery undertones.
- Cream cheese (softened): The heart of the creamy layer—smooth, tangy, and a lovely contrast to the sweet fruit.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Gives the creamy layer an extra luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese perfectly, making it light and almost like cheesecake.
- Vanilla extract: Adds delicate fragrance and rounds out the sweetness of the cream filling.
- Bananas (sliced): Their softness, mellow sweetness, and color are essential for that signature banana split flavor.
- Crushed pineapple (drained well): A juicy, tropical layer that cuts through the richness and balances every bite.
- Fresh strawberries (diced): Adds bursts of ruby-red fruitiness, color, and a hint of tartness.
- Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade): The cloud-like finish—pillowy, light, and delightfully creamy.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): For some nutty crunch and classic ice cream parlor charm.
- Chocolate syrup: Drizzled for a sweet, glossy finish that’s pure nostalgia.
- Maraschino cherries: The literal cherry on top: bright, syrupy, and so much fun for presentation!
How to Make Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture looks like damp sand—every crumb should be kissed with butter. Pour this mixture into your 9×13-inch dish, pressing it down evenly with your hands or the back of a spoon. This will be the sturdy, slightly sweet foundation for the whole cake. Pop it into the fridge to chill while you work on the next layer.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is ultra-smooth and free of lumps. Next, sift in the powdered sugar, add the vanilla extract, and continue beating until it turns light and fluffy. This luscious, almost cheesecake-like cream will add a fantastic richness and hold the fruit in place. Gently spread the entire mixture over your chilled graham crust, using a spatula to make it even and smooth.
Step 3: Add the Fruit Layers
Layer the sliced bananas right over the cream cheese layer. Make sure they overlap slightly—this keeps every bite creamy and full of fresh banana flavor. Next, spoon your well-drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, followed by an even sprinkle of diced strawberries. At this point, your cake looks like a rainbow and smells amazing!
Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream
Spread the whipped topping gently and evenly on top of the fruit layers. Don’t press too hard—you want to keep those beautiful layers intact. The whipped cream acts like a fluffy, sweet blanket over the entire cake, unifying all the vibrant flavors underneath.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
For the final flourish, scatter chopped pecans or walnuts (if using) over the whipped cream, adding a little crunch and a rustic feel. Drizzle chocolate syrup over everything, letting it cascade down like a sundae topping. Tuck maraschino cherries in rows or dot them across the top for a classic banana split look. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least four hours (overnight is perfect) to allow the layers to become friends and flavors to marry.
Step 6: Serve
When it’s time to serve, slice the cake into generous squares and lift them out carefully. Each bite will include the graham crust, velvety cream, juicy fruit, and that irresistible whipped topping!
How to Serve Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust

Garnishes
The finishing touches for Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust are pure fun! Sprinkle extra nuts if you love crunch, add a few more maraschino cherries for extra flair, or even toss rainbow sprinkles on top for a party vibe. A final drizzle of extra chocolate syrup never hurts, especially if you’re serving chocoholics.
Side Dishes
Since this dessert feels like a complete treat on its own, you’ll want to keep sides light and refreshing. Consider offering a bowl of crisp, fresh fruit salad, some tangy lemon sorbet, or even iced coffee to contrast the creamy richness. If it’s part of a celebration menu, a platter of assorted cookies or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is always a crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust in individual mason jars, parfait glasses, or small cups for a personal touch—everyone loves digging straight into their own little dessert! You can also cut the cake into bars, wrap them in parchment, and serve them picnic-style. Feel free to get playful with mini umbrellas or decorative picks on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid and keep any leftovers in the refrigerator. The cake keeps beautifully for up to three days, though the crust will soften slightly as it sits. If you want to preserve the best texture, only add garnishes and whipped topping to portions you plan to serve immediately.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust, especially if you want to get ahead before a busy occasion. Cut into squares and wrap each piece individually, or freeze the whole (ungarnished) dish. Cover it securely, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding your garnishes and serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat—this recipe is best served chilled! If you pull a frozen piece from the freezer, simply thaw it in the refrigerator until it’s creamy and easy to slice. The cold, creamy layers are what make this cake so satisfying and refreshing, especially on warmer days.
FAQs
Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional banana split flavors include bananas, pineapple, and strawberries, you can swap in raspberries, blueberries, or sliced kiwi for a fun twist. Just try to keep the layers balanced so every bite tastes as sunny as the original!
What if I don’t have Cool Whip or whipped topping?
No problem! Homemade whipped cream works beautifully. Whip 1 1/2 cups cold heavy cream with 2–3 tablespoons powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over your cake just before serving for the fluffiest finish.
Is there a gluten-free version of Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust?
Yes—simply substitute gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, and check that your other ingredients don’t have hidden gluten (some brands of whipped topping might). All the other layers are naturally gluten free.
Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?
Preparing Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust a day in advance is a fantastic idea. The chilling time helps the layers set and flavors blend beautifully, making for an even more delicious treat the next day.
What’s the best way to slice and serve the cake neatly?
For clean squares, use a sharp, non-serrated knife and wipe it between slices. Chilling the cake well also helps the layers hold their shape so every serving looks just as gorgeous as it tastes!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat, you can’t go wrong with Easy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust. Share it at your next gathering or surprise your family with a sweet slice of nostalgia—either way, you’ll be making memories right alongside this delicious treat!
PrintEasy Layered No-Bake Banana Split Cake with Graham Crust Recipe
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic banana split in cake form with this easy no-bake recipe. Layers of graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, fresh fruit, whipped topping, and decadent toppings create a perfect dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Fruit Layers:
- 3–4 medium bananas, sliced
- 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
For the Topping:
- 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
- ¼ cup chocolate syrup for drizzling
- 12–16 maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a 9×13-inch dish and chill.
- Make the Creamy Layer: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mix until fluffy. Spread over crust.
- Add the Fruit Layers: Arrange bananas, pineapple, and strawberries over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread whipped topping over the fruit layers.
- Garnish And Chill: Sprinkle nuts, drizzle chocolate syrup, add cherries. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- You can customize the fruit selection based on your preferences.
- Feel free to add more toppings like sprinkles or caramel sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Banana Split Cake, No-Bake Dessert, Easy Dessert Recipe