If you’re craving a dessert that brings all the fun and flavor of a classic banana split into a delightfully creamy, luscious cheesecake, you absolutely must try this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a sweet treat that layers soft bananas, juicy pineapple, and bright cherries between velvety cream cheese filling all on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. What makes this recipe so fantastic is how it comes together effortlessly without ever turning on the oven, giving you a chilled slice of tropical indulgence that feels like summer in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe plays a crucial role, combining simple staples to build a dessert that’s rich in texture and vibrant in flavor. From the crunchy graham cracker crust to the smooth cream cheese filling and fresh fruit layers, these ingredients work in harmony to create that perfect balance.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The base of our crust adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to complement the creamy filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients together and adds richness.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, providing creamy texture and tanginess.
- Powdered sugar: Adds smooth sweetness that dissolves perfectly into the cream cheese.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth into the filling.
- Whipped topping, thawed: Lightens the filling to create that dreamy, airy consistency.
- Bananas, sliced: Fresh and naturally sweet, bringing classic banana split flavor.
- Crushed pineapple, drained: Adds juicy tropical brightness with a little tang.
- Maraschino cherries, halved: Brings bursts of vibrant color and sweet cherry flavor.
- Chocolate syrup: For a luscious drizzle that’s perfect on top.
- Caramel sauce: Adds a buttery, decadent touch to finish the cheesecake.
- Whipped cream, for garnish: Creates a light, fluffy crown on your dessert.
- Additional banana slices, maraschino cherries, and chocolate pieces for garnish: Give your presentation that extra wow factor and invite everyone to dig in.
How to Make No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter in a medium bowl. The butter brings the dry crumbs together, helping the crust hold its shape once pressed into the pan. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish—this forms the crunchy, buttery foundation that will hold all the delicious layers above.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to keep the filling light and airy without losing any of its rich tanginess. This step is where the magic happens, creating that luscious filling central to the cheesecake’s charm.
Step 3: Layer the cheesecake
Evenly spread half of the cream cheese mixture on top of the prepared crust, smoothing it out carefully. Then add a vibrant layer of sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, and maraschino cherries. This colorful fruit mixture adds fresh sweetness and texture, bringing the tropical banana split feeling to life within the cheesecake.
Step 4: Add the remaining cheesecake layer
Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the fruit layer, smoothing the surface to make sure everything is nicely sealed and ready to chill. This final creamy layer keeps the fruit enveloped, ensuring every forkful is balanced and indulgent.
Step 5: Top and chill
Drizzle chocolate syrup and caramel sauce evenly over the top of the cheesecake. These luscious toppings add a decadent finish that echoes the classic banana split toppings. Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, allowing it to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Just before serving, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, extra banana slices, more maraschino cherries, and chocolate pieces on top. These garnishes give the cheesecake a festive, irresistible look and an extra burst of flavor and texture. Now it’s time to slice and enjoy this dreamy No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe with friends and family.
How to Serve No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your cheesecake look extra special, use fresh banana slices, bright maraschino cherries, and chocolate pieces as garnishes. Add cloud-like dollops of whipped cream to create a beautiful contrast against the smooth cheesecake surface. These finishing touches not only elevate the appearance but also add layers of fresh flavor with each bite.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of fresh berries. Serving alongside a light fruit salad can balance the richness, making the whole dessert experience refreshing yet satisfyingly indulgent. A cup of hot coffee or tea also complements the sweet and creamy notes wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe in individual glass cups or mason jars for a charming presentation. Layer the crust, filling, and fruit just like the full recipe, then top with sauces and garnishes. This is perfect for casual gatherings or when you want to impress guests without complicated plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious and moist for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for a busy week or for entertaining.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake for up to one month. Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
This No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe is best served chilled and isn’t intended to be reheated. Keep it cold for the smoothest texture and most refreshing taste. If you prefer a softer slice, let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I substitute whipped topping with fresh whipped cream?
Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream will give the cheesecake a lovely light texture and fresh flavor. Just be sure to fold it in gently to keep the filling fluffy.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
To keep the bananas looking fresh and prevent browning, you can toss the slices lightly with a bit of lemon juice before layering them into the cheesecake. This adds a nice citrusy zing too!
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or a gluten-free cookie crumb of your choice for the crust, and the rest of the ingredients should naturally fit a gluten-free diet.
Can I make this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, you’ll need to use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan whipped topping, and vegan butter substitute. The fruit and crust modifications are straightforward with vegan-friendly graham crumbs.
How long will the cheesecake take to set in the fridge?
You want to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal. This gives the cheesecake enough time to firm up perfectly and let the flavors marry for a more intense taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about a dessert that tastes like a nostalgic favorite reinvented in the most elegant way possible, and this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe nails it every time. Whether you want to wow guests or treat yourself, it’s a no-fuss, all-pleasure kind of recipe. I can’t wait for you to try it and bask in the creamy, fruity joy it brings to any occasion.
Print
No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This no-bake banana split cheesecake is a delightful, creamy dessert perfect for warm weather or any occasion where you want a luscious treat without turning on the oven. Featuring layers of smooth cream cheese filling, fresh bananas, pineapple, and cherries, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is topped with chocolate and caramel sauces and finished with whipped cream and extra fruit garnishes. It requires minimal preparation and sets beautifully in the refrigerator for a refreshing, indulgent dessert.
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, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly and then firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated, maintaining a light texture.
- Layer the cheesecake: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Then, layer the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, and halved maraschino cherries on top, distributing the fruit evenly.
- Add the remaining cheesecake layer: Carefully spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the fruit layer, smoothing out the top with a spatula to create a clean surface for toppings.
- Top and chill: Drizzle the chocolate syrup and caramel sauce over the top layer in a decorative manner. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream along with additional banana slices, maraschino cherries, and chocolate pieces to add extra flavor and visual appeal. Slice and enjoy this refreshing no-bake banana split cheesecake.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is well softened for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.
- Use fresh bananas and add them just before layering to avoid browning.
- This cheesecake must be refrigerated for a minimum of 4 hours to set properly.
- To prevent sogginess, consider placing a thin layer of crushed graham crackers or a light barrier between the crust and the fruit layer if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
