Prepare yourself for a slice of pure nostalgia with this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake! Imagine all the brilliant flavors of your favorite old-school banana split, layered into a cool, creamy, utterly dreamy cheesecake — no oven required. It’s vibrant with fresh fruit, has a silky cheesecake filling, and the irresistible crunch of a buttery graham cracker crust. This recipe is a celebration of summer desserts, friendly gatherings, and all things fun!

No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is how each ingredient adds something irresistible — from dreamy creaminess to bright pops of color. These simple, easy-to-find ingredients all play a starring role in the delicious results.

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the perfect base with a gentle crunch and mild sweetness that sets off the creamy layers above.
Unsalted butter (melted): Keeps the crust together and adds a rich, golden flavor without any overpowering saltiness.
Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to take the crust up a notch and balance everything beautifully.
Ripe bananas (sliced): Essential for classic banana split flair – the sweeter and softer, the better.
Cream cheese (softened): This is your creamy, tangy base for the cheesecake layer; softening ensures a silky texture.
Powdered sugar: Lends smooth sweetness to the filling without grittiness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the cheesecake with warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
Whipped topping (plus more for garnish): Lightens the filling and adds that classic banana split cloud-like touch on top.
Crushed pineapple (drained): Adds a tropical note and beautiful juiciness, just make sure it’s well-drained to keep your cake firm.
Strawberries (chopped): Bursts of sweet, tart freshness that feel so summery in every slice.
Mini chocolate chips: Sprinkled on top for that extra bit of indulgence, just like the hot fudge drizzle on a classic split.
Chopped walnuts: Crunchy, nutty contrast to the creamy filling (swap with pecans or skip for allergies).
Maraschino cherries for topping: No banana split is complete without this cheery, sweet finish on top!

How to Make No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Step 1: Create the Buttery Crust

In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix it all together until the crumbs are evenly moistened, then press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates that sturdy, irresistible base that holds every luscious layer. Pop the dish into the fridge while you prep the next step, letting it firm up to perfection.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until smooth and totally lump-free. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is luxuriously creamy and sweet. Gently fold in the whipped topping — this helps the filling stay light, fluffy, and nearly cloud-like.

Step 3: Build Your Banana Layer

Now, take your perfectly ripe banana slices and lay them in an even layer over your chilly graham cracker crust. This is where the banana split theme shines, infusing each bite with fruity flavor and creamy texture.

Step 4: Spread the Cheesecake Filling

Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out so that every corner is covered. Take a moment to marvel at how thick and luscious it looks! This forms the base that holds all your sunshine-bright fruit toppings.

Step 5: Add the Fruity Toppings

Next, sprinkle the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the cheesecake layer, then scatter the chopped strawberries on top. Their fresh color and juicy sweetness make this dessert feel special before you’ve even taken a bite.

Step 6: Chocolate and Crunch

Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and the chopped walnuts on top. This adds both a favorite banana split flavor and a delightful crunch that makes each forkful sing.

Step 7: Chill to Set

Cover your dish and chill your No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake for at least 4 hours (overnight is perfectly fine, too). Chilling ensures your layers set firmly and are easy to slice — perfect for that wow-worthy presentation.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, go wild with dollops of extra whipped topping and a cheerful scatter of maraschino cherries. It’s that final, nostalgic touch that brings every sunny, joy-filled memory to the table.

How to Serve No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Garnishes

Make your cheesecake pop with colorful garnishes! I love piling extra whipped topping, a generous scatter of maraschino cherries, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or even a few extra strawberry slices for maximum wow factor. The more joyful and abundant the topping, the better it channels the playful spirit of the original banana split!

Side Dishes

This cheesecake is decadent and fruity, so pair it with lighter companions. Offer a bowl of fresh sliced fruit, or crisp butter wafers for a little dunking. If you want to really keep with the retro theme, a glass of ice-cold milk or a fun milkshake is absolutely delightful alongside your No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cheesecake pre-sliced for ease at parties, or scoop it parfait-style into individual glasses for a picnic vibe. Mini mason jars or small cups look adorable and highlight those colorful layers. For birthdays, you can even let guests create their own slice, decked out with more toppings. There’s no wrong way to show off this festive treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers of this scrumptious No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake, simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake! For best results, slice and wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying — the texture remains surprisingly creamy even after freezing.

Reheating

No reheating is required for this chilled dessert. Just bring your No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake out of the fridge about 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to shine.

FAQs

Can I make No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake is actually best when made a day ahead, as the extra chill time helps everything firm up and the flavors fuse beautifully.

What can I use instead of walnuts for a nut-free version?

You can simply leave out the nuts or replace them with extra mini chocolate chips or even toasted coconut flakes for crunch and texture without almonds, pecans, or walnuts.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Definitely! Whip heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar until you get soft peaks, then use the same way you’d use whipped topping for a slightly richer, real cream flavor.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from getting soggy?

The key is to drain the pineapple well (press it out a bit with a paper towel), and use very ripe bananas without excess moisture. Assembled as written and kept chilled, it should stay plentifully creamy and hold its layers.

Can I make this as individual servings instead of in a big dish?

Yes! Layer the crust, bananas, cheesecake filling, and toppings into small jars or cups for adorable single-serving treats — perfect for parties or picnics, and they set up even faster than a large pan.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s creamy, cheerful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is for you. It puts that sunny, banana split magic into sliceable, no-fuss cheesecake form. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how fun and delicious summer desserts can be!

No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic banana split with a twist in this easy-to-make no-bake banana split cheesecake. Creamy, fruity, and nutty, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, especially in the summertime.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Filling:

2 ripe bananas, sliced
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 oz whipped topping, plus more for garnish
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Maraschino cherries for topping

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Chill.
Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth; mix in powdered sugar and vanilla. Fold in whipped topping. Layer bananas, cream cheese mixture, pineapple, strawberries, chocolate chips, and walnuts over the crust. Chill for 4 hours.
Serve: Garnish with whipped topping and cherries before serving.