No-Bake Banana Split Cake – Don’t Lose This Recipe

### Instructions:

#### 1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by making the crust. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even, solid crust. This will be the base of your no-bake cake. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the rest of the layers.

#### 2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1/2 cup of whipped topping to create a light and fluffy consistency. Once well-mixed, spread this creamy mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.

#### 3. Add the Banana Layer:
After spreading the cream cheese mixture, layer the sliced bananas on top. You want to cover the entire surface with banana slices to give every bite that banana split goodness. Set the dish aside while you prepare the pudding layer.

#### 4. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until the pudding thickens. Once it reaches a pudding-like consistency, spread the pudding mixture evenly over the banana slices, covering them completely.

#### 5. Top It Off:
Now it’s time to add the finishing touches! Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. Then, sprinkle the crushed pineapple evenly over the whipped topping. If you like a bit of crunch, add the chopped walnuts or pecans on top as well.

Finally, drizzle the chocolate syrup over the dessert in a decorative swirl. For the classic banana split touch, garnish with maraschino cherries—one for each serving, or a few for the whole dish.

#### 6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling the cake allows the layers to set and gives the flavors time to meld together. The result is a creamy, cool, and decadent dessert that’s just waiting to be devoured.

### Why This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a Must-Try:
– **Easy to Make**: With minimal prep and no baking required, this cake is perfect for those who want a dessert that’s simple to put together without sacrificing flavor or appearance.
– **Layered Flavor**: Each layer adds a different flavor and texture, from the buttery graham cracker crust to the sweet cream cheese filling and the banana, pudding, and whipped topping layers. It’s like eating a banana split in cake form, but with even more creaminess.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion**: Whether it’s a family BBQ, a summer potluck, or a special treat for the kids, this no-bake cake is the ideal dessert for any occasion. It’s sure to impress with its vibrant layers and nostalgic banana split flavors.
– **No Oven Required**: This is especially great during hot summer months when you don’t want to turn on the oven. Plus, you can make it in advance and let it chill in the fridge while you focus on other things.

### Tips for the Best No-Bake Banana Split Cake:
– **Use Fresh Bananas**: Be sure to use ripe, fresh bananas for the best texture and flavor. Make sure to layer the bananas as close to serving time as possible to prevent them from browning.
– **Customize the Toppings**: If you’re not a fan of walnuts or pecans, you can easily substitute with other nuts or even sprinkles or shredded coconut for a twist.
– **Make Ahead**: This dessert is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight, as the flavors have time to develop and the layers set up perfectly.
– **Add More Toppings**: You can get creative with the toppings! Add a drizzle of caramel sauce, more chocolate syrup, or even chopped strawberries or other fruit to personalize your cake.

### Conclusion:
This No-Bake Banana Split Cake is a dessert you’ll want to hold onto. With its creamy layers, refreshing bananas, and chocolatey goodness, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Not only does it bring the nostalgic flavor of a banana split, but it’s also super easy to make and can be prepared in advance, so you’re ready to enjoy it anytime. Don’t lose this recipe—trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!