Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake: A Slice of Summer Bliss
Some desserts don’t just taste good—they transport you. One bite of this No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake and you’re instantly whisked back to summer nights at the ice cream parlor, sharing banana splits with sticky fingers and wide smiles. Now, imagine capturing all of that joy and layering it into a luscious, creamy cheesecake—without even turning on the oven.
This dessert is everything you love about a classic banana split—bananas, cherries, pineapple, chocolate, caramel, and whipped cream—all stacked on a graham cracker crust and wrapped in a velvety cheesecake filling. It’s a no-bake masterpiece that’s as simple to make as it is impressive to serve.
Why You’ll Love It
✔️ No oven required
✔️ Full of fresh fruit and nostalgic flavor
✔️ Make-ahead friendly
✔️ Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just because
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, need a birthday dessert in a pinch, or simply craving something sweet and indulgent, this dessert ticks every box.
Ingredients at a Glance
For the crust:
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling and layers:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Toppings & fruit:
2 bananas, sliced
½ cup crushed pineapple, well drained
½ cup maraschino cherries, halved
¼ cup chocolate syrup
¼ cup caramel sauce
For garnish (optional, but highly recommended):
Whipped cream
Additional banana slices
Maraschino cherries
Chocolate shavings or pieces
How to Make It
Step 1: Build the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer. Pop it into the fridge while you make the filling.
Step 2: Whip the Filling
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy (no lumps!). Gently fold in the whipped topping with a spatula until fully combined. The mixture should be light and fluffy.
Step 3: Layer the Love
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the crust. Layer on the banana slices, crushed pineapple, and halved maraschino cherries. Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the fruit layer, smoothing the top.
Step 4: Drizzle & Chill
Drizzle the cheesecake with chocolate syrup and caramel sauce, creating a marbled effect on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, top with whipped cream, extra banana slices, more cherries, and chocolate pieces or shavings. Slice into squares and serve chilled for the ultimate banana split-inspired experience.
Tips for Success
🍌 Banana tips: Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid browning and mushiness.
🧊 Make ahead: This dessert keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Make it the night before a party!
🔄 Customize it: Try adding crushed nuts (like peanuts or pecans) between layers, or swap caramel for strawberry sauce for a classic banana split twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Backyard BBQs
Family gatherings
Mother’s Day brunch
Summer birthdays
Just because it’s Tuesday
Final Thoughts
Desserts should be fun, nostalgic, and just a little over-the-top—and this Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is all that and more. With its dreamy layers, fresh fruit, and classic sundae toppings, it’s a dessert that invites smiles before the first bite is even taken.
So skip the oven, grab a mixing bowl, and get ready to impress your guests with a cheesecake that tastes like summer in every forkful.