No-Bake Banana Split Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

For the Pudding Layer:

• 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix

• 3 cups cold milk

For the Toppings:

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced

• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

• ½ cup chopped strawberries

• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

• Additional whipped topping for garnish

• Maraschino cherries for garnish

• Chocolate syrup for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.

   • Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press it down firmly to form an even layer. Set aside.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:

   • In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.

   • Fold in the whipped topping and mix gently until smooth.

   • Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing it into a uniform layer.

3. Prepare the Pudding Layer:

   • In another bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mixes with the cold milk for about 2 minutes or until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.

   • Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.

4. Add the Fruit and Nuts:

   • Arrange the sliced bananas over the pudding layer, followed by the drained crushed pineapple and chopped strawberries.

   • If using, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the fruit for added texture and flavor.

5. Top with Whipped Topping and Garnish:

   • Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the fruit and nuts.

   • Drizzle chocolate syrup generously over the top of the whipped topping.

   • Add maraschino cherries as a colorful and fun garnish.

6. Chill the Cake:

   • Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve:

   • After chilling, slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. This dessert is perfect for parties, potlucks, or any special occasion.

Enjoy your delicious No-Bake Banana Split Cake!