ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs (or Nilla wafer crumbs) with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it down firmly.
- Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other layers.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully combined. This will create a light, creamy mixture that will be spread on top of the crust.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes. Set aside.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- Take the crust out of the refrigerator and layer the sliced bananas evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the bananas, smoothing it into an even layer.
- Pour the banana pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer and spread it out evenly.
- Top with Whipped Topping:
- Spread the remaining ½ cup of whipped topping over the pudding layer, smoothing it out with a spatula to cover the entire dessert.
- Add the Toppings:
- Drizzle the dessert with chocolate syrup.
- Top with maraschino cherries, crushed peanuts or walnuts, and mini chocolate chips, if desired.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
- Once chilled, cut into squares and serve!
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Banana Split Dessert
This No-Bake Banana Split Dessert is a perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements that make it irresistible. The bananas provide a natural sweetness, while the crust offers a satisfying crunch. The creamy layers—made of cream cheese and pudding—add rich texture, and the whipped topping brings it all together. The drizzle of chocolate syrup and the maraschino cherries on top make it feel like you’re indulging in a classic banana split sundae, but in a no-bake, easy-to-serve format.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a delicious treat to cool off on a warm day, this dessert is sure to please a crowd and leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Variations and Tips
- Change the Fruit: While banana is the traditional choice, you can also add other fruits like strawberries, pineapples, or even blueberries for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make the dessert gluten-free, swap the graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free alternative or use crushed gluten-free cookies.
- Chocolate Lovers: For extra chocolate flavor, add mini chocolate chips to the layers or top with a rich fudge sauce.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make this dessert dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy whipped topping, and a dairy-free pudding mix.
Conclusion
The No-Bake Banana Split Dessert is a perfect summertime treat that combines all the flavors of a banana split sundae without any baking required. It’s easy to prepare, refreshing, and highly customizable to fit your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a festive barbecue, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your dessert repertoire. So next time you crave something sweet, skip the oven and make this delightful no-bake dessert instead!
ADVERTISEMENT
