If you’re craving something decadent, fruity, and completely fuss-free, this Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is everything your dessert dreams are made of. It’s a fresh, fun take on the nostalgic banana split—layered into a creamy, rich, and impossibly easy cheesecake that doesn’t require an oven.

This delightful no-bake treat is perfect for potlucks, summer parties, birthdays, or just an indulgent family dessert. It delivers all the flavors of a classic banana split—bananas, pineapple, strawberries, chocolate, and whipped cream—on top of a buttery graham cracker crust and creamy cheesecake filling. Best of all? No baking, no water bath, and no stress.

Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

• ✅ No oven required – Perfect for hot summer days or when you want dessert without heating the kitchen

• ✅ Classic banana split flavor in an elegant, layered dessert

• ✅ Quick to prepare – Only 20 minutes of hands-on time

• ✅ Visually stunning – Colorful layers and toppings make it a showstopper

• ✅ Make-ahead friendly – Chill for a few hours or overnight for best texture

Who Is This Recipe For?

This dessert is ideal for:

• Busy home bakers who need a quick and reliable recipe

• Hosts planning summer barbecues or poolside parties

• Parents looking for a fun, kid-friendly treat

• Anyone who wants to impress guests without turning on the oven

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to build this no-bake masterpiece:

🧈 For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 1/4 cup sugar

🍰 For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1½ cups heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks

🍌 For the Toppings:

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 cup chocolate syrup

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work best)

• Whipped cream (optional)

• Maraschino cherries (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this cheesecake as seamless as possible, gather the following:

• Mixing bowls

• Electric mixer or stand mixer

• Spatula

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Plastic wrap or airtight cover

• Knife and cutting board for fruit

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula or the bottom of a glass. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prep the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake

Remove the crust from the fridge. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

4. Add the Banana Split Toppings

Now the fun part! Layer your toppings:

• Arrange sliced bananas evenly over the cheesecake

• Spoon on the crushed pineapple

• Layer on the fresh strawberries

Drizzle chocolate syrup generously over the top and sprinkle with chopped nuts.

If you’re feeling extra festive, add dollops of whipped cream and top each serving with a maraschino cherry for that classic banana split look.

5. Chill and Serve

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Once set, slice and serve chilled.

Helpful Tips for Success

• Drain the pineapple well to avoid a soggy topping.

• Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent them from browning too quickly.

• Chill before serving — this dessert sets up beautifully and slices cleanly after a few hours in the fridge.

• If making ahead, add the fruit and toppings just before serving to keep everything looking fresh and vibrant.

Variations and Swaps

• Make it chocolatey: Add a layer of chocolate pudding between the crust and cheesecake layer.

• Use crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for a chocolate crust twist.

• Add a layer of sliced kiwi or blueberries for more fruity variety.

• Make it mini: Assemble in individual dessert cups or mason jars for cute party-ready portions.

Storage Instructions

This cheesecake is best stored covered in the refrigerator and will keep well for 3 to 4 days.

• If you’ve added fresh fruit and whipped cream, try to consume it sooner for optimal freshness.

• You can freeze the base and filling (without fruit/toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add toppings fresh.

Serving Suggestions

This no-bake banana split cheesecake is a complete dessert on its own, but you can take it to the next level by:

• Pairing with iced coffee or cold brew for a summery treat

• Serving with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for the ultimate banana split experience

• Drizzling with caramel sauce for added indulgence

• Garnishing with shaved chocolate or sprinkles for festive flair

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain thoroughly. Fresh fruit holds its shape better and gives a brighter flavor.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely. You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Add fresh toppings the day you plan to serve.

How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?

Brush the banana slices lightly with lemon juice before layering to slow oxidation and keep them looking fresh.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. All other ingredients are typically gluten-free, but check labels to be sure.

A Dessert Worth Sharing

This Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is every bit as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s rich, fruity, creamy, crunchy, and topped with just enough chocolatey drizzle to make every bite irresistible.

If you give this recipe a try, don’t forget to share it with friends and family—on Pinterest, Facebook, or your favorite foodie group. And if you love easy, no-bake desserts that wow a crowd, subscribe to the blog for more recipes like this one. 🍌🍓🍒🍰