No-Bake Banana Split Cake (Printer-Friendly Version)

Luscious layers of fruit and cream over a crisp graham crust; perfect cool treat for any summer celebration.

# What You'll Need:

→ Graham Cracker Crust

01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Cream Cheese Layer

04 - 24 ounces cream cheese, softened (three 8-ounce packages)
05 - 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
07 - 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
08 - 1 cup powdered sugar

→ Fruit Layer

09 - 3 ripe bananas, sliced 1/4 inch thick
10 - 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, well drained
11 - 16 ounces fresh strawberries, washed and sliced 1/2 inch thick

→ Whipped Topping

12 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
13 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar

→ Toppings

14 - 1/3 cup chopped pecans
15 - 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
16 - 12 maraschino cherries, patted dry

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Mix until all crumbs are evenly moistened. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 13x9-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Refrigerate the crust for a minimum of 20 minutes to set.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and lump-free. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing at low speed until well incorporated. Add sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice, blending until the mixture is creamy. Gently fold in thawed whipped topping until fully combined.
03 - Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
04 - Evenly distribute the banana slices over the cream cheese layer. Top with a layer of well-drained crushed pineapple, followed by an even layer of sliced strawberries.
05 - Using a chilled mixing bowl and cold whisk, beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together on medium speed, then increase to high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Do not overwhip.
06 - Spread the whipped cream evenly over the fruit layers, covering the entire surface of the cake. Chill the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 5 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
07 - Just before serving, sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the whipped topping. Drizzle with chocolate syrup in a decorative pattern. Place maraschino cherries on top, one cherry per serving. Slice and serve chilled.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Toss banana slices in pineapple juice or citrus juice immediately after slicing to prevent browning and preserve freshness.
02 - For a firmer crust and extra flavor, toast graham cracker crumbs in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes before mixing with butter and sugar.
03 - Drain canned fruits thoroughly and pat dry to prevent excess moisture and maintain cake structure.

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