Delicious No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake 🍌🍰

Instructions for Making No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making the graham cracker or vanilla wafer crust.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar (if using), and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture is slightly moist.
2. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan (or a regular pie dish) to form an even crust.
3. Place the crust in the fridge to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling. This helps it set and firm up.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip the cream.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.
5. Once the filling is smooth and fluffy, gently fold in the banana slices and pineapple chunks (if using), making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Spoon the cheesecake filling into the chilled graham cracker crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until it’s fully set. For best results, refrigerate overnight.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Once the cheesecake has set and is ready to serve, it’s time to add the toppings!

1. Drizzle the chocolate sauce over the top of the cheesecake. You can also add extra drizzle around the edges to mimic the look of a classic banana split.
2. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the cheesecake for a crunchy texture that complements the smooth filling.
3. Add additional banana slices around the edges for that authentic banana split look.
4. Top with maraschino cherries for the perfect finishing touch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake and serve immediately. Watch your guests’ faces light up as they indulge in this creamy, fruity, and chocolatey dessert that combines all the best parts of a banana split into one mouthwatering cheesecake.

Tips for Perfect No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

• Chill the cheesecake thoroughly: The longer the cheesecake sets in the fridge, the better it will firm up. Try to allow at least 4 hours of chilling time, but overnight is even better.
• Choose ripe bananas: Make sure the bananas are ripe for the best flavor and texture in the cheesecake filling.
• Customize the topping: Feel free to switch up the toppings based on your preferences. You could add strawberry syrup for an extra fruity kick or swap the pineapple for other tropical fruits like mango.
• Use a springform pan: A springform pan makes it much easier to remove the cheesecake and serve it without disturbing the crust. If you don’t have one, a regular pie dish will work just fine.
• Avoid over-mixing the whipped cream: When folding the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, be gentle. Over-mixing can cause the cream to lose its airiness and make the filling less fluffy.

Why This No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is a Must-Try

This No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the classic banana split but wants a quicker, more convenient version. With a light, fluffy filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and all the delicious toppings that make a banana split so irresistible, this cheesecake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, a barbecue, or just because, this dessert will always be met with smiles and second helpings.

So, grab those ripe bananas, whip up the cheesecake, and get ready to treat yourself to a cool, creamy, and oh-so-delicious dessert that everyone will love!