Chilled Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe

The Ultimate No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe for Summer Joy

Creamy no-bake banana split cheesecake promises a delightful dessert adventure that captures summer’s sweetest memories.

Sweet bananas mingle with velvety cream cheese in this effortless treat.

Layers of fruity goodness stack up without requiring an oven.

Cool and refreshing, this dessert brings playground nostalgia right to your plate.

Decadent chocolate drizzles and vibrant cherry toppings make each slice a celebration.

Simplicity meets indulgence in this crowd-pleasing masterpiece that comes together in minutes.

You’ll want to savor every single spoonful of this dreamy confection.

Reasons to Try No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

  • Craft Delicious Comfort: Patty melts bring nostalgic diner-style goodness right to your kitchen with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Master Quick Meal Magic: Prepare a satisfying sandwich that impresses family and friends without complicated techniques or exotic ingredients.
  • Customize with Creativity: Easily swap cheese types, adjust seasoning, or modify secret sauce to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Solution: Perfect for casual weeknight meals, game day gatherings, or spontaneous hunger moments when everyone craves something hearty and delicious.

Ingredients for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

For the Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Melted Butter: Helps bind the crumbs together and creates a rich, solid crust.
For the Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Delivers a smooth, tangy base that gives the cheesecake its classic creamy texture.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a silky smooth filling.
  • Whipped Topping: Contributes lightness and creates a fluffy, airy texture to the cheesecake.
For the Toppings:
  • Bananas, Crushed Pineapple, Strawberries: Fresh fruits that mimic the classic banana split flavors and add natural sweetness.
  • Chocolate Syrup: Provides a rich, decadent drizzle that enhances the dessert's indulgence.
  • Maraschino Cherries: Offers a bright, sweet garnish that completes the banana split theme.

How to Prepare No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

How to Prepare No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Crunchy Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix thoroughly with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a rectangular or round dish, creating an even, compact layer that will serve as the delicious foundation for your cheesecake.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add powdered sugar and blend until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Gently fold in whipped topping, creating a silky, airy filling that will melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Create Cheesecake Base

Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, ensuring an even and smooth surface.

Use a spatula to distribute the filling perfectly across the entire dish.

Step 4: Add Fruity Layers

Arrange fresh banana slices across the cream cheese layer.

Sprinkle:
  • Crushed pineapple
  • Fresh strawberry pieces

These vibrant fruits will give your cheesecake a classic banana split flavor profile.

Step 5: Decorate and Finish

Drizzle rich chocolate syrup in a decorative pattern over the fruit layer.

Add dollops of additional whipped topping around the edges. Crown the cheesecake with bright maraschino cherries for that authentic banana split look.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set completely. When ready, slice and serve chilled for a refreshing, indulgent treat that captures all the classic banana split flavors in a creamy cheesecake form.

Pro Tips for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

  • Crush graham crackers finely for a smoother, more even crust that holds together perfectly.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to blend seamlessly without lumps.
  • Drain pineapple completely to prevent excess moisture from making the cheesecake watery.
  • Slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning and maintain fresh appearance.
  • Chill the cheesecake overnight for enhanced flavor and firmer texture, allowing ingredients to meld beautifully.

Variations for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

  • Tropical Paradise: Replace strawberries with mango chunks and add coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
  • Chocolate Lover's Dream: Mix cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling and use chocolate graham crackers for the crust.
  • Berry Bliss: Swap strawberries for mixed berries like raspberries and blueberries, then sprinkle with almond slivers.
  • Caramel Crunch: Drizzle caramel sauce instead of chocolate, and add chopped pecans on top for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

  • Tropical Banana Split Delight: Serve individual portions in clear glass dessert cups for a stunning presentation that showcases colorful layers.
  • Weekend Brunch Centerpiece: Create a rustic family-style serving by cutting large slices and garnishing with extra fresh fruit and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch.
  • Picnic Perfect Treat: Pack pre-cut squares in portable containers for outdoor gatherings, ensuring each piece stays intact and chilled during transport.
  • Elegant Dessert Platter: Arrange slices on a decorative white platter, drizzle additional chocolate syrup, and add whole maraschino cherries around the edges for a professional catering-style display.

Storage Advice for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

  • Wrap the cheesecake securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and absorb other refrigerator odors.
  • Place the cheesecake in an airtight container to maintain freshness and protect it from potential contamination.
  • Always store the no-bake cheesecake in the refrigerator at 40°F or below to preserve its texture and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Enjoy the dessert within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality, checking for any signs of spoilage before serving.

FAQs

  • Can I use different fruits for this recipe?

You can swap fruits based on availability or preference. Good alternatives include blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges that complement the creamy cheesecake base.

  • Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This dessert contains dairy from cream cheese and might not be appropriate for vegans or those with lactose intolerance. For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free graham crackers or alternative cookie crumbs.

  • How long can I keep this cheesecake in the refrigerator?

The cheesecake stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fruit might start to release moisture after 2 days, so it’s best consumed earlier.

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Chilled Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe

Chilled Banana Split Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Delightful no-bake banana split cheesecake combines classic dessert flavors in a creamy, refreshing treat. Cool layers of banana, chocolate, and strawberry create a dessert paradise you’ll crave after each delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) butter, melted
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip)
  • 2 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
  • 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

Instructions

  1. Crush graham crackers and combine with melted butter, firmly pressing the mixture into the bottom of a chilled serving dish to create a compact, even crust.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until velvety, gradually incorporating powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and silky.
  3. Gently fold whipped topping into the cream cheese blend, ensuring a smooth, airy texture without deflating the mixture.
  4. Carefully spread the cream cheese filling over the prepared graham cracker base, creating an even, consistent layer.
  5. Arrange sliced bananas in a neat, overlapping pattern across the cream cheese surface.
  6. Distribute crushed pineapple evenly, allowing the fruit to nestle into the creamy backdrop.
  7. Scatter fresh strawberry pieces across the fruit layer, providing bursts of color and flavor.
  8. Elegantly drizzle chocolate syrup in a crisscross pattern, creating an artistic design over the fruit.
  9. Add a delicate layer of additional whipped topping, using a piping bag for a professional finish.
  10. Crown the dessert with vibrant maraschino cherries, strategically placed for visual appeal.
  11. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and texture to set perfectly.
  12. Remove from refrigerator 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor presentation.

Notes

  • Customize the crust by using gluten-free graham crackers or switching to almond flour for a low-carb option.
  • Keep bananas fresh by tossing them in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning and maintain their vibrant color.
  • Create a dairy-free version by substituting cream cheese with coconut cream and using vegan whipped topping.
  • Elevate the texture by freezing the cheesecake for a firmer, ice cream-like consistency that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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