No Bake Banana Split Cake

 

🍌 No-Bake Banana Split Cake

Ingredients:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided

4 ripe bananas, sliced

1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well-drained

1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced

1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix

1 1/2 cups cold milk

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Chocolate syrup, for drizzling

Maraschino cherries, for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Make the Crust:

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the crust.

3. Layer the Fruit:

Arrange sliced bananas evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Spread the drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas.

Add a layer of sliced strawberries next.

4. Chocolate Pudding Layer:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Spread over the fruit layer.

5. Final Whipped Topping:

Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.

6. Toppings:

Sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using), drizzle with chocolate syrup, and decorate with maraschino cherries.

7. Chill:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving to allow it to set.