This Banana Split Lasagna is a showstopper dessert that combines all the delightful flavors of a banana split into a layered, no-bake dessert. The creamy filling, soft bananas, crunchy graham cracker crust, and rich chocolate syrup drizzle create the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Perfect for summer parties or any sweet occasion, this dessert is easy to make and will have everyone coming back for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes. Don’t forget to top it off with maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips for that extra touch of indulgence.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups heavy whipping cream
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
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1 1/2 cups cold milk
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1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
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6 to 8 bananas, sliced
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1 cup crushed graham crackers
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1/4 cup melted butter
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1 cup chocolate syrup
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1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
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Maraschino cherries for garnish
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Mini chocolate chips for garnish
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
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Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk, and continue mixing until the pudding thickens.
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Fold in the thawed Cool Whip until fully combined.
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In a separate bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until the crumbs are coated.
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Layer the graham cracker mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish, pressing it down to form a crust.
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Spread half of the banana mixture over the graham cracker crust.
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Add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the banana mixture.
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Repeat the layers, using the remaining banana mixture and the rest of the bananas.
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Drizzle chocolate syrup over the top layer and garnish with chopped walnuts and maraschino cherries.
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Refrigerate the lasagna for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Why Banana Split Lasagna is a Showstopper
This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to make! Unlike traditional lasagna, you won’t need to bake it, which makes it a great option for busy days or hot summer afternoons when you want something sweet without turning on the oven. The layers of Cool Whip, cream cheese, fresh fruit, and walnuts are a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that mimic the flavors of a classic banana split, but in a much more decadent, layered form.
The secret to the success of banana split lasagna lies in its balance of flavors. The graham cracker crust provides the perfect crunch, while the cream cheese filling adds a rich, fluffy texture. The combination of bananas, pineapple, and strawberries ensures a bright and refreshing burst of sweetness. The walnuts bring a nutty flavor, and the chocolate syrup drizzle ties everything together, giving you the full banana split experience in a lasagna-style presentation.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Banana split lasagna is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a fun dessert at birthday parties, potlucks, family gatherings, or even as a treat for a cozy night in. This dessert can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together for even better taste. The no-bake nature of the dish means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your friends and family.
Another great feature of this recipe is its adaptability. You can customize the fruit and toppings to suit your preferences. Add or substitute fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mangoes for a unique twist. You can also switch up the nuts, using pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. The recipe is easily scalable, so you can adjust it to serve a smaller or larger group.
How to Assemble Banana Split Lasagna
Assembling banana split lasagna is easy and quick. Start with the crust, made from graham crackers, butter, and sugar, which provides a buttery, crunchy base. Once your crust is set, the first layer is a creamy mixture of cream cheese and sugar, beaten until light and fluffy. Next, add the Cool Whip and spread it evenly on top. The Cool Whip adds a light, airy texture that contrasts perfectly with the cream cheese mixture.
Next comes the fruit layer: sliced bananas, crushed pineapple (well-drained), and finely chopped strawberries. These juicy fruits are a key part of what makes the banana split lasagna so refreshing. After the fruit layer, add another generous layer of Cool Whip and sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top.
Let the lasagna refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or preferably overnight) to let the layers set. Before serving, drizzle the lasagna with chocolate syrup and top with rainbow sprinkles and maraschino cherries for that signature banana split flair.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Banana split lasagna takes everything you love about a banana split and elevates it into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfies your sweet tooth in the best way possible. Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, celebrating a birthday, or just treating yourself to something sweet, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.
What makes it even better is how simple the recipe is. With just a few basic ingredients, you can put together a dessert that feels decadent and indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, since there’s no baking involved, it’s a perfect summer treat when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
The flavor profile of this lasagna is a combination of sweetness, crunch, and freshness, with each bite offering a different texture and taste. From the crisp graham cracker crust to the creamy cheese filling and juicy fruits, it’s a perfect example of how dessert can be both simple and extraordinary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, banana split lasagna is an easy and delicious dessert that takes the classic flavors of a banana split and turns them into a fun, no-bake treat. Its creamy layers, refreshing fruit, and crunchy crust make it a favorite for all ages, and its ability to be made ahead of time makes it perfect for busy hosts. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or serving it at a family gathering, banana split lasagna is sure to be a hit. It’s an exciting way to reinvent the beloved banana split and bring a little extra joy to your dessert table. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this indulgent and fun dessert, and enjoy every bite of it!