Description
This Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is a luscious and creamy dessert that combines classic banana split flavors with a rich, no-bake cheesecake base. Featuring layers of graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, and mini chocolate chips, all topped with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, this treat is perfect for warm days or any occasion where you want a delightful, fuss-free dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Toppings
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- Optional: whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set.
- Prepare cream cheese mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a mixer. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until well combined and creamy.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, indicating it’s aerated and fluffy.
- Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it is smooth and creamy, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Layer first cream layer: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
- Add fruit and chocolate: Arrange half of the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped maraschino cherries, and mini chocolate chips evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Layer second cream layer: Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the fruit and chocolate layer, covering it evenly.
- Add final toppings: Top with the remaining banana slices, chopped cherries, and mini chocolate chips. Drizzle chocolate syrup generously over the top for extra flavor and decoration.
- Chill to set: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up and meld the flavors.
- Serve: Optional – Before serving, add dollops of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. Slice and serve chilled for a decadent dessert experience.
Notes
- This cheesecake requires refrigeration for setting; do not skip the chilling time.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- To prevent bananas from browning quickly, you can brush slices with a little lemon juice before assembling.
- If you prefer, substitute crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple chunks for added texture.
- The recipe can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
- For a nut-free version, ensure graham cracker crumbs do not contain nuts.
