A creamy, fruity, refreshing no-bake dessert inspired by the classic banana split, this cheesecake is layered with fresh fruit, velvety filling, and a buttery graham crust. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want an impressive dessert without turning on the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no-bake banana split cheesecake combines the nostalgic flavors of bananas, strawberries, and pineapple with a smooth cheesecake filling and a delightful chocolate drizzle. It’s easy to assemble, requires minimal kitchen skills, and delivers the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or make-ahead desserts, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup strawberries, sliced
½ cup chocolate syrup
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Directions

1. Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until fully moistened, then press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill for 10 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
4. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust. Layer half of the sliced bananas, crushed pineapple, and strawberries on top. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle walnuts if desired.
5. Add the remaining cream cheese mixture on top and smooth the surface. Layer with the remaining fruit, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and more walnuts if you like.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
7. Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with extra fruit or chocolate syrup if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 10
Prep time: approximately 20 minutes
Chill time: at least 4 hours
Total time: about 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Use chocolate cookie crumbs for a richer, chocolate-flavored crust.
• Add shredded coconut or a layer of chopped nuts between fruit layers for extra texture.
• Swap strawberries for raspberries or cherries as a fruity twist.
• Mix a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling for a chocolate swirl version.
• Use honey or caramel drizzle in place of chocolate syrup for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate the cheesecake tightly covered for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake (without whipped cream topping) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
This recipe is served chilled and should not be reheated.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make this cheesecake?

You can prepare it up to 24 hours ahead for ideal texture and flavor.

Can I freeze this no-bake cheesecake?

Yes, freeze it without the fresh fruit topping for best results, then add fruit before serving.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but the texture will be softer and less rich.

Can I replace heavy cream with whipped topping?

Yes, an equal amount of prepared whipped topping works, though it will be sweeter.

How do I keep bananas from browning?

Slice them just before layering or lightly brush with lemon juice to slow browning.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, digestive biscuits or vanilla cookie crumbs work well.

Can this be made in a regular pie dish?

It can, but a springform pan makes slicing and releasing much easier.

Is the pineapple required?

You may omit it or substitute with mango or peach for similar moisture and sweetness.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream, though the flavor will differ.

How long does it need to chill?

A minimum of 4 hours, but overnight provides the best firmness and clean slices.

Conclusion

This no-bake banana split cheesecake is a refreshing, vibrant dessert that brings together creamy filling, layers of fresh fruit, and a buttery crust. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it offers all the nostalgic flavors of a banana split in a beautifully layered cheesecake form. Enjoy it chilled, share with loved ones, and savor every bite.

Print