Description
This Banana Split Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert that captures the classic flavors of a banana split in pie form. It features layers of creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, fresh bananas, strawberries, and pineapple nestled in a graham cracker crust, topped with chocolate syrup, nuts, and maraschino cherries for a fun and festive finish. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a cool, fruity treat without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 prepared 9-inch graham cracker crust
Fruit Layer
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
Toppings
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Combine Cream and Cream Cheese: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain the fluffy consistency without deflating the whipped cream.
- Assemble the First Layer: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared 9-inch graham cracker crust, creating a creamy base for the fruit layers.
- Add the Fruit Layers: Arrange the sliced bananas, chopped strawberries, and crushed pineapple evenly over the cream layer to distribute flavors uniformly.
- Top with Remaining Cream Cheese Mixture: Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the fruit layer, sealing in the fruits and creating a smooth top layer.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle the chocolate syrup over the top and sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired to add texture and taste contrast.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly and for flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish with maraschino cherries and additional chocolate syrup for a classic banana split presentation and extra sweetness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute whipped topping for heavy cream or reduce the powdered sugar slightly.
- Use crushed walnuts or pecans as alternatives to the chopped nuts based on your preference.
- Ensure pineapple is well-drained to prevent sogginess in the pie.
- Slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning, or toss them lightly in lemon juice.
