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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!