Name: banana split cake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 package vanilla wafers; 3 cups whipped cream; 4 ripe bananas bananas (sliced); 1 cup chocolate syrup; 0.5 cup chocolate shavings; 0.5 cup maraschino cherries

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a dessert that’s pure sunshine on the plate. My Banana Split Cake. Is it like a classic banana split ice cream sundae decided to throw the party with fluffy cake? Is everyone invited? Think of it as a lazy baker’s dream – all the glorious flavors of your childhood without the stress. Is it worth it to scoop ice cream and watch it melt everywhere? I’ve been making this for potlucks and family gatherings for years, and it *always* disappears. Is whipped cream faster than you can say it? “This recipe is so easy, it’s basically foolproof, even for those of us (yes, I’m raising my hand). How do you make a good poke cake? Is there any way to take a business to ‘new level’?

What is banana split cake?

What is banana split cake? Imagine your favorite banana split sundae deconstructed and transformed into a delectable dessert. It starts with a moist, tender cake base, usually sour cream or white cake. What’s the fun part? a creamy, dreamy filling that tastes just like the inside of banana split. What are bananas, pineapple, whipped topping? No banana split is complete without them, sprinkle with chopped bananas. What’s your favorite way to serve chocolate sauce with nuts? What is a no bake dessert? What are some of the best ice cream flavors?

Why you will love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to eat banana split cake? What is my go-to recipe?

Flavor Explosion:What are some of the best chocolate flavors? Is it a symphony of sweetness that will make your taste buds sing?
Ridiculously EasyWhat are some quick ways to whip up a dish in minutes? What is the most time-consuming part of baking a cake? What is the perfect dessert for a busy weeknight? I’ve had friends call me while driving to a party asking for dessert recipe, and this is the recipe. Is the one I tell them?
Budget FriendlyThe ingredients are all pretty common and affordable, making it a great option if you’re on an island. What makes a good cake?
Versatile:Can you customize it to your liking? Is it possible to make your own experiment?
Crowd-Pleaser:I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t love this cake. It’s always a hit at parties and gatherings, and is guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone.

What I love about this cake is that it’s a nostalgic treat that everyone can enjoy. Is it a little bit of childhood in every bite? If you love no bake cheesecakes or just a basic vanilla cake with frosting, you absolutely must. *have* to try this banana split cake. I swear, it’ll become a new family favorite!

How do I make banana split cake?

Quick Overview

What is the best way to make banana split cake? What is the best way to start a cake? How do you make banana split filling? What is the best way to layer all the ingredients together, sprinkle with nuts and chocolate, and chill. Seriously, that’s it! The magic lies in the simplicity and the combination of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Main Batter: How do I find the
* 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
*I always use Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines. They are both so good! If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your favorite vanilla Cake Recipe from scratch. Is the box mix worth buying?

For the Filling:
* 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
* The riper the better! But not to brown. You want that good banana flavor to shine! * 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained.
* Make sure it’s well-drained. Soggy pineapple will make your cake mushy. I usually press it with paper towels. * 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
* You can use stabilized whipped cream for an extra decadent touch, but Cool Whip is classic and delicious.

For the Toppings: What are
* 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans or peanuts)
* I like to toast my nuts lightly for extra flavor. * Chocolate syrup, for drizzling.
* Go wild with the drizzle! * Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
* Because what’s a banana split without cherries?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. How do I prevent a cake from sticking? I sometimes line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Make sure to whisk everything together until just combined. Can overmixing lead to a tough cake?

Step 3: Bake the Cake

How do I spread the batter evenly in a pan? Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it!

Step 4: Cool Completely

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before adding the filling. This is crucial! If you add the filling to a warm cake, it will melt the whipped topping and make smoky mess. I usually stick it in the fridge to speed up the cooling process.

Step 5: Add the Bananas and Pineapple

Once the cake is cool, arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the top. Then, sprinkle the crushed pineapple over the bananas.

Step 6: Spread the Whipped Topping

The whipped topping should be spread over the bananas and pineapple. Gently cover the entire surface. Make it look pretty!

Step 7: Top and Chill

Sprinkle chopped nuts over the whipped topping and drizzle generously with chocolate syrup. If you’re using maraschino cherries, add them now. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. How do I get the flavors to meld and the cake to chill?

Step 8: Slice & Serve

Slice the cake into squares and serve cold. Enjoy every delicious bite!

What is the best way to serve it?

What are some good ideas for a banana split cake?

For Brunch:Serve it with a side of fresh fruit salad and mimosas for an unforgettable brunch treat. I like to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for extra decadence.
As Dessert: Pair it with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate after dinner. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or some whipped cream on top never hurts either!
For a Party: Cut it into smaller squares and serve it as a finger food at your next party. It’s always a hit! I’ve even seen people get creative and add little flags on toothpicks for a festive touch.
Cozy Night In: Grab a slice (or two!) and curl up on the couch with a good book or movie. It’s the perfect comfort food.

My family loves to eat this after a summer barbecue. It’s light, refreshing, and the perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note. We’ve also been known to enjoy it on a rainy day, because let’s be honest, banana split cake makes *any* day better.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Banana Split Cake

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this banana split cake even more amazing. Here are my top tips:

Don’t Overbake the Cake: A dry cake is a sad cake. Keep a close eye on it while it’s baking and pull it out as soon as a wooden skewer comes out clean.
Drain the Pineapple Well: I can’t stress this enough! Soggy pineapple will make your cake mushy. Press it with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas have the best flavor. They should be yellow with a few brown spots.
Chill Completely: Don’t rush the chilling process. The cake needs at least 2 hours in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together and the cake to chill properly.
Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. I’ve tried sprinkles, coconut flakes, and even chopped peanut butter cups. The possibilities are endless!
Make it Ahead: This cake is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake the cake a day in advance and assemble the filling the next day.
Toast the Nuts: Toasting the nuts before adding them to the cake adds a layer of flavor and crunch.

I actually messed up this recipe *horribly* the first time I made it. I didn’t drain the pineapple properly, and the cake was a soggy mess. But hey, we all make mistakes! The key is to learn from them and keep experimenting.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat (although, let’s be real, there usually aren’t any leftovers!) your banana split cake:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than a couple of hours, especially if it’s warm. The whipped topping will start to melt.
Refrigerator: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will still taste delicious!
Freezer: You can freeze this cake, but the texture of the bananas and whipped topping may change slightly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. I usually prefer it fresh, but freezing is a good option if you want to make it way ahead of time.
Glaze Timing: I like to add the chocolate syrup and nuts right before serving, to prevent them from getting soggy.

Pro tip: if you do have leftovers, they taste amazing straight from the fridge the next day. It’s like a little slice of heaven!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cake mix. I’ve had good results with King Arthur and Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free cake mixes. You may need to add a bit more liquid to the batter, as gluten-free flours tend to be drier. Keep an eye on the baking time as well.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream will definitely take this cake to the next level. Just be sure to stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar and gelatin to prevent it from weeping.

Can I use different types of nuts?

Of course! Walnuts, pecans, and peanuts are all great options. You can even use a mix of different nuts. Just make sure they are chopped into small pieces.

Can I add other fruits?

Definitely! Strawberries, blueberries, and even mandarin oranges would be delicious additions. Just be sure to adjust the amount of other fruits accordingly.

Can I make this cake in a different size pan?

You could try using a different pan, but baking times will vary. I recommend sticking with the 9×13 inch pan for best results.

Final Thoughts

This banana split cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of happiness, a memory waiting to be made. It’s the perfect treat for birthdays, potlucks, or any time you need a little bit of sunshine in your life. Seriously, every time I make this, it reminds me of childhood summers and family gatherings. It’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations, and I’m so happy to share it with you. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my no-bake chocolate lasagna or my strawberry pretzel salad. Both are easy, delicious, and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe! Share a picture of your creations; I’d love to see them!