No-Bake Banana Split Icebox Cake: A Chilled Dessert That Melts Hearts
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
This no-bake banana split cake is the ultimate chilled dessert: creamy, fruity, crunchy, and topped with chocolate drizzle and cherries! It’s perfect for summer, potlucks, birthdays, or just when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven. Bonus? It looks impressive and tastes even better!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the creamy layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit & Filling:
- 3–4 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold milk
For the topping:
- 2 cups whipped topping (or whipped cream)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Directions
1. Make the crust:
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Chill for 15 minutes while you prepare the next layers.
2. Make the creamy filling:
Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then slowly beat in the heavy cream. Mix until smooth and fluffy. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
3. Add bananas:
Layer the banana slices over the cream cheese mixture, covering every inch for maximum banana flavor.
4. Prepare pudding layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold milk, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla pudding mix. Let it thicken slightly (about 2–3 minutes), then pour it over the banana layer.
5. Add whipped topping:
Gently spread whipped topping over the pudding layer. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Decorate:
Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top, drizzle generously with chocolate syrup, and decorate with maraschino cherries for that classic banana split look.
Chill Time:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. The flavors will meld beautifully and the dessert will be easier to slice.
Serving Tips:
Use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Serve chilled. Every bite brings you creamy sweetness, banana goodness, and crunchy delight!
Bonus Tips:
- Want extra texture? Add crushed pineapple or strawberries between the banana and pudding layers.
- Swap graham crackers with crushed Oreos for a chocolatey twist.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a true banana split experience.