Banana Split Dessert is a delightful, layered treat that combines the beloved flavors of a classic banana split into a convenient and easy-to-make dessert. This recipe, featured on lovewithrecipes.com, promises to satisfy both your sweet tooth and your nostalgia for this iconic dessert. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Recipe Overview
- Name: Banana Split Dessert
- Category: Pie
- Keywords: Dessert, Lunch/Snacks, Cheese, Fruit, Low Protein, Kid Friendly, Weeknight, Oven, Refrigerator, < 4 Hours
- Servings: 12
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes (Prep: 2 hours, Cook: 5 minutes)
Ingredients
Crust:
- 8 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons margarine
- 2 1/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip
Additional Layers:
- 3-6 bananas, sliced
- 1 package (5.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- Maraschino cherries, nuts, and additional whipped cream for topping
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 392.8
- Fat: 18.1g
- Saturated Fat: 10.2g
- Cholesterol: 49.2mg
- Sodium: 332.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 56.2g
- Fiber: 1.7g
- Sugar: 42.4g
- Protein: 4g
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Melt the butter and margarine in a 9-inch by 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Stir in graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish using a fork to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in a preheated 200°F oven for about 5 minutes.
- Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, cream cheese, drained crushed pineapple, and Cool Whip.
- Beat with a mixer until smooth and well blended.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
Step 3: Add Banana and Chocolate Layers
- Slice enough bananas to cover the entire surface of the cream cheese layer.
- In a separate bowl, prepare instant chocolate pudding mix according to package instructions, using 1 1/2 cups of milk.
- Pour the prepared chocolate pudding evenly over the sliced bananas.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Serve
- Refrigerate the dessert to allow it to set completely, ideally for at least 2 hours or until ready to serve.
- Just before serving, top with additional whipped cream.
- Sprinkle with nuts and garnish with maraschino cherries for a classic banana split look.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
- Variations: Feel free to customize this dessert by adding your favorite toppings such as chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, or sprinkles.
- Make Ahead: This dessert can be prepared ahead of time and stored covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Note that bananas may brown over time, so freshen with lemon juice if preparing ahead.
Conclusion
Banana Split Dessert is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, offering the nostalgia of a banana split in an easy-to-serve format. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy layers, fruity accents, and chocolaty goodness. Visit lovewithrecipes.com for more culinary inspirations and to discover how cooking truly embodies love made visible.
