no-bake banana split cake

Ingredients

For the crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the toppings:

  • 3 to 4 bananas, sliced
  • 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
  • 20 ounces strawberries, sliced
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
  • 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
  • Chocolate sauce (optional)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the crust:
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and salt. Mix until the crumbs are well coated with butter.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Press the crumbs evenly across the bottom of the dish to form a firm, even layer. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
  1. Make the filling:
  • In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
  • Gently fold in the Cool Whip with a rubber spatula until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. Take care not to deflate the mixture.
  • Remove the crust from the refrigerator and spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust in an even layer.
  1. Assemble the toppings:
  • Arrange banana slices in a single layer over the cream cheese filling.
  • Evenly spread the drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas.
  • Add a layer of sliced strawberries over the pineapple.
  • Cover the fruit with a final layer of Cool Whip, spreading gently to cover the fruit completely.
  1. Garnish and chill:
  • Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the Cool Whip. Drizzle with chocolate sauce and add maraschino cherries if using.
  • Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.
  1. Serving:
  • Once chilled, cut into slices and serve. Enjoy the creamy layers and fruity bursts in every bite!

Pro Tips:

  • Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits like mangoes or peaches for a personalized touch. Consider adding a sprinkle of chocolate chips or dollops of peanut butter for extra decadence.
  • Serving Size: If you’re serving a large crowd, consider making a double layer by doubling the ingredients and using a deeper dish or stacking two layers with extra crust in between.

This expanded recipe provides clear steps and options for customization, making it a delightful dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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