No-Bake Banana Split Cake
No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a delightful, layered dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic banana split without the need for baking. Combining fresh bananas, whipped cream, vanilla pudding, strawberries, chocolate syrup, and wafers, this creamy and fruity treat is easy to prepare and perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free wafers or cookie crumbs are used)
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
- 1 package vanilla pudding mix (typically 3.4 oz)
- 2 cups cold milk (for pudding preparation)
- 2 cups whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup chocolate syrup
- 2 cups wafers or cookie crumbs
Optional Toppings
- Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- Maraschino cherries
- Shredded coconut
- Mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: Whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. This will serve as the rich base layer of the cake.
- Layer the wafers or cookie crumbs: Spread a generous layer of wafers or cookie crumbs on the bottom of your cake dish or pan, creating a crunchy foundation that absorbs moisture while adding texture.
- Add the first cream layer: Spread half of the prepared pudding evenly over the wafers, then layer with half of the whipped topping to create a smooth and fluffy contrast.
- Arrange banana and strawberry slices: Place fresh banana slices evenly over the creamy layer, then add a layer of sliced strawberries for sweetness and vibrant color.
- Repeat layering: Add another layer of wafers or cookie crumbs, followed by the remaining pudding and whipped topping layers. Top with remaining banana and strawberry slices.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup and chill: Generously drizzle chocolate syrup over the top of the cake. Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts, maraschino cherries, or shredded coconut for extra texture and decoration. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushy layers and keep slices intact.
- Chill pudding and whipped topping beforehand for better layering and texture.
- Spread layers gently with a spatula to maintain neat and distinct layers.
- Cover the cake tightly while chilling to prevent absorbing fridge odors and drying out.
- Add freshly sliced bananas just before assembling to avoid browning and maintain fresh appearance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/10 of cake)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: no bake, banana split, banana split cake, easy dessert, layered dessert, pudding dessert, fruit dessert, summer dessert
Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/no-bake-banana-split-cake/