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Indulge in the delightful flavors of a No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake, a Tropical Cheesecake Dessert that blends creamy cheesecake with the vibrant tastes of banana, pineapple, and classic banana split toppings. This easy, oven-free dessert is perfect for warm summer days, featuring a graham cracker crust, smooth filling, and a dazzling garnish of whipped cream, cherries, nuts, and chocolate sauce. Whether for a barbecue or a cozy treat, No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a hassle-free dessert that captures the joy of a banana split in cheesecake form. No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is a Tropical Cheesecake Dessert that combines a creamy, fruity filling with a buttery crust, all topped with indulgent garnishes. It’s quick to prepare, requires no baking, and delivers a refreshing, tropical vibe that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet pick-me-up. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable for dietary needs and creative twists.

Ingredients for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Here’s what you’ll need for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake (serves 8):

For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
For Garnish (optional):
- Sliced bananas
- Maraschino cherries
- Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or peanuts)
- Chocolate sauce
- Additional whipped cream

Equipment

9-inch springform pan or pie dish
Mixing bowls
Handheld mixer or whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Plastic wrap

Ingredient Tips

Bananas: Use ripe but firm bananas for sweetness and texture.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat for richness; soften at room temperature for smoothness.
Pineapple: Drain well to avoid a runny filling.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Fresh for crunch; crush finely for an even crust.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip works as a quick alternative to whipped cream.

Directions for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Let’s create this irresistible No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake!

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, I combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup melted unsalted butter until well mixed. I press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish to form an even crust. I chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes while preparing the filling.

Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, I beat 16 oz softened cream cheese with a handheld mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. I add ½ cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract, beating until fully combined. Next, I gently fold in 2 mashed ripe bananas and 1 cup drained crushed pineapple, followed by 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping, until the mixture is evenly blended.

Assemble and Chill

I spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. I cover the No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to ensure it sets firmly.

Garnish and Serve

Before serving, I spread a layer of whipped cream or whipped topping over the chilled cheesecake. I garnish with sliced bananas, maraschino cherries, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a classic banana split look. I slice into portions and serve chilled for the best texture.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling)
Servings: 8
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 45g carbs, 6g protein, 22g fat, 2g fiber

Variations for No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Try these twists on No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake:

Chocolate Crust: Swap graham crumbs for Oreo crumbs in a decadent Tropical Cheesecake Dessert.
Berry Boost: Add ½ cup chopped strawberries to the filling for a fruity Tropical Cheesecake Dessert.
Nut-Free: Skip nuts and use sprinkles for a kid-friendly garnish.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and plant-based butter.
Caramel Drizzle: Replace chocolate sauce with caramel for a sweet twist.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Rhubarb Cheesecake Creams Cups for a no-bake dessert duo.
Serve with a scoop of strawberry ice cream for an indulgent Tropical Cheesecake Dessert combo.
Offer at a summer picnic with lemonade or tropical punch for a refreshing spread.

Storage

I store No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days to maintain freshness. I add garnishes like whipped cream, bananas, and chocolate sauce just before serving to keep them fresh. For freezing, I wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing for up to 1 month. I thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to restore the creamy texture.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Serve No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake on a colorful platter to highlight the vibrant toppings.
Garnish: Add extra whipped cream, cherries, and a chocolate drizzle for a festive look.
Pairing: Enjoy with iced coffee, tropical juice, or sparkling water to complement No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake.
Temperature: Serve chilled for the best creamy texture.
Portion Size: One-eighth of the cheesecake per person for a satisfying slice.

FAQs About No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use a different type of crust for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is traditional, you can experiment with cookie crusts like Oreo or digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile.

How long does it take for the cheesecake to set in the refrigerator?
The cheesecake typically needs at least 4 hours to set properly in the refrigerator. For best results, chilling it overnight ensures a firm and creamy texture.

Can I substitute whipped cream with whipped topping in this recipe?
Yes, whipped topping (like Cool Whip) can be used interchangeably with whipped cream in this recipe. Both will provide a light and creamy finish to your cheesecake.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add garnishes just before serving to keep them fresh.

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Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a refreshing dessert, this cheesecake offers a delightful twist on the beloved banana split. Perfectly combining creamy cheesecake with the tropical flavors of banana and pineapple, No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Embrace the ease of no-bake preparation and the joy of indulging in a dessert that captures the essence of summer.