Cool, creamy, and bursting with flavors, the No Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is the quintessential summer dessert that everyone raves about. This delightful dish captures the essence of a classic banana split, transforming it into a cheesecake that requires no baking whatsoever! Perfect for summer parties or family gatherings, this easy dessert brings a crowd-pleasing element to any occasion. You’ll love how quickly this cheesecake comes together and how it can be made in advance, freeing you up to enjoy your time with friends and family.

The beauty of this No Bake Banana Split Cheesecake lies in its rich layers of deliciousness, featuring silky vanilla ice cream, vibrant fruit, and a crunchy graham cracker crust that perfectly balances the sweetness of bananas and cherries. With each bite, you get a mix of textures and flavors that is both nostalgic and refreshing—ideal for those warm summer evenings. Plus, it’s a vegetarian-friendly option that can be enjoyed by all. So, let’s dive into why this dessert will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Quick and Easy: Whip this up with minimal ingredients, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: The classic flavors are sure to win over guests of all ages.
No Baking Required: A chill dessert makes it ideal for hot days.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings and add-ins!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into creating your No Bake Banana Split Cheesecake, ensure your kitchen is ready. First, gather all your ingredients and tools required for the recipe. You will need a 9-inch springform pan to create the cheesecake’s lovely shape, a large mixing bowl for combining the filling, and a measuring cup for precise ingredient usage. A spatula is also essential for smoothing out the ice cream filling and making sure it’s even.

Having everything prepped, including the softened vanilla ice cream, makes for a smooth process. Make sure to leave your ice cream out for about 15 minutes prior to mixing so that it’s easy to fold. Set aside a few minutes to toast your almonds in a small pan over medium heat for extra flavor—they add a fantastic crunch. Once your workstation is prepped, you’re ready to begin making this delightful dessert.

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
4 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup maraschino cherries, halved
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/2 cup hot fudge sauce, slightly cooled
1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped
Extra banana slices, for garnish
Whole maraschino cherries, for topping
Chocolate coins or chips, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. The mixture should be crumbly yet hold together when pressed. Firmly pack this into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a solid crust. Once the crust is evenly distributed, pop it into the freezer for about 20 minutes to allow it to set. This step is crucial as it provides a stable base for your cheesecake that holds together when serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, take your softened vanilla ice cream and gently fold it with the sliced bananas, halved cherries, and crushed pineapple. It’s important to be gentle during this step to keep the mixture light and airy. The fruity addition not only flavors the cheesecake but livens it up with vibrant colors. Once everything is well combined, transfer this filling onto the frozen crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Add More Flavor

To take your cheesecake to the next level, sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly over the top of the ice cream mixture. Then, drizzle the hot fudge sauce across the surface. For a beautiful presentation, use a knife or a toothpick to gently swirl the fudge into the cheesecake filling, creating a marbled effect. Once complete, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and return it to the freezer for a minimum of 6 hours, although overnight chilling is recommended for the best results.

Variations

Protein: Add chopped nuts or protein powder to the filling for an added nutritional boost.
Vegetables: For a different twist, incorporate shredded zucchini for moisture and nutrition without flavor.
Spices: Customize with a sprinkle of cinnamon or caramel sauce for added depth of flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your vanilla ice cream is sufficiently softened before mixing; this makes folding easier.
You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs for Oreo cookies for a chocolatey twist.
For a healthier alternative, switch out vanilla ice cream for Greek yogurt mixed with honey.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of the cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
Pair with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries, enhancing the dessert’s fruity aspect.

Tips

To easily slice the cheesecake, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before cutting.
For a fancy presentation, top the cheesecake with extra bananas, whole cherries, and chocolate coins right before serving.
If you’re a fan of tropical flavors, consider adding shredded coconut to the filling for a piña colada-inspired twist.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking!)
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance, and it stores well in the freezer.

How do I store leftovers?

Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the freezer to preserve freshness.

Can I change the flavors of the ice cream?

Absolutely! Substitute the vanilla ice cream for chocolate, strawberry, or any other favorite flavor for a unique twist!

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can also use a regular pie dish. Just remember that it may be a little trickier to slice and serve.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the No Bake Banana Split Cheesecake is a delightful indulgence that combines the nostalgia of a classic banana split with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Its easy preparation and sheer deliciousness make it a must-try dessert for any summer gathering. With the ability to customize your toppings and flavors, every batch can be unique. So why not give it a go? Share your variations and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to spread the word about this chilled dessert. Enjoy making, sharing, and savoring this scrumptious treat with loved ones!