Introduction
Picture this: a thick, buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy no-bake cheesecake filling, and layers of bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and whipped cream—drizzled with chocolate syrup and topped with cherries. It’s everything you love about a banana split, reimagined as a refreshing No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake.
This show-stopping dessert is effortless to assemble, doesn’t require an oven, and is guaranteed to be the highlight of your summer gathering.
Why I Love This Recipe
When it’s too hot to turn on the oven but you still want to impress, this no-bake cheesecake delivers every time. It’s fruity, rich, and beautifully layered, with a nostalgic banana split vibe that brings out smiles at any age.
What I love most? You can prep it the night before and let it chill while you focus on the rest of your celebration. And the texture? Silky smooth with a sweet crunch from the crust and a burst of fresh fruit in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅓ cup lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Fruit Layers:
- 3 medium bananas, sliced 🍌
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained 🍍
- 1 cup strawberries, diced 🍓
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling 🍫
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or peanuts)
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish 🍒
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Graham Cracker Crust: You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or substitute with vanilla wafers or chocolate cookie crumbs.
- Fruit: Fresh strawberries are best, but you can use frozen (thawed and drained). Add blueberries or kiwi for a twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap cream cheese and condensed milk with plant-based versions and use coconut whipped cream for topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Chill for 30 minutes while you prep the filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Beat until well combined and silky.
Pour half the mixture over the chilled crust and smooth with a spatula.
3. Add the Fruit Layers
Layer with half of the sliced bananas, pineapple, and strawberries.
Repeat by pouring the remaining cheesecake mixture on top, then another layer of fruit.
4. Whip and Top
In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Spread over the fruit layers evenly.
Drizzle with chocolate syrup, sprinkle with chopped nuts, and top with maraschino cherries.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Slice, serve, and watch it disappear in minutes!
Tips for Success
- Use a springform pan for easy removal and beautiful presentation.
- Drain your pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.
- Freeze for 20 minutes before slicing for extra-clean edges.
- Decorate just before serving if making it a day in advance to keep the toppings fresh.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dessert is a natural star of the show, but if you’re building a whole summer spread, consider pairing it with:
- Grilled burgers or BBQ chicken
- Sparkling lemonade or a chilled rosé
- A side of salty pretzels or potato chips to balance the sweetness
Looking for more no-bake and fruit-forward treats? Try:
- This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake – frozen, fun, and fast
- This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – creamy chocolate bliss
- These Caramel Apple Nachos – quick, fruity, and full of crunch
- Pumpkin Delight Dessert – for seasonal variety, no oven needed!
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-friendly: You can freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Pro tip: Keep toppings like whipped cream and nuts fresh by adding them just before serving.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re all about easy, chilled, no-bake treats, don’t miss:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – rich, indulgent, and completely addictive
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that feels like summer in every bite. It’s cool, creamy, loaded with fresh fruit, and comes together without a single minute in the oven. Whether you’re hosting a birthday bash, pool party, or backyard BBQ, this is the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe.
Give it a try and tag @chefmaniac with your version! We’d love to see your slice of summer. Want more easy dessert ideas? Follow us and never miss a sweet moment.
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