If you adore the delightful flavors of a classic banana split but want something easier to share and prep, this Banana Split Pie Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine creamy, luscious layers of whipped cream, cream cheese, and fresh fruit nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust, all topped off with rich chocolate syrup and cherries. This no-bake pie is like the ultimate banana split experience transformed into a sliceable dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or a special treat any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Banana Split Pie Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each adding a perfect note to the overall taste, texture, and stunning appearance. From the fresh fruits that bring vibrant color and natural sweetness to the creamy filling and crunchy crust, every component plays a star role.
- Prepared 9-inch graham cracker crust: Provides a buttery, crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced: The heart of the pie, offering natural sweetness and that iconic banana flavor.
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries: Adds a juicy burst of tartness and lovely color throughout the pie.
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Brings tropical tang and moisture without sogginess.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, smooth base for the filling’s creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling gently without a grainy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled: Whipped to stiff peaks for lightness and fluffiness in the filling.
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup plus extra for drizzling: The decadent finishing touch, echoing that classic banana split chocolate drizzle.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor if you like a bit of texture.
- Maraschino cherries for garnish: The perfect pop of color and sweetness to crown your pie.
How to Make Banana Split Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Start by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until everything is silky smooth and well combined. This creamy base is the foundation of your pie’s luscious texture and sweet flavor. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks—this step is crucial to achieving that airy, cloud-like filling everyone will love.
Step 2: Combine and Layer
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care not to deflate the air you just whipped in. Spread half of this creamy mixture evenly into the prepared graham cracker crust; this layer will hold your delicious fruit. Then layer the sliced bananas, chopped strawberries, and crushed pineapple over the cream—this trio adds juicy freshness and a burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Top and Chill
Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the fruit, creating a smooth top layer. Next, drizzle the chocolate syrup generously across the top and sprinkle on chopped nuts if you’re using them—this adds a lovely texture and a pleasant nuttiness to balance the sweetness. Now comes the essential step of chilling the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the pie to set to perfection.
How to Serve Banana Split Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Just before serving, decorate your masterpiece with maraschino cherries and an extra drizzle of chocolate syrup. The cherries add that classic banana split look and a cheerful burst of red, while the chocolate drizzle makes every slice even more mouthwatering and inviting.
Side Dishes
This pie shines as a star dessert, so you want to keep sides light and simple. Pair it with freshly brewed coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence, or even a refreshing glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon to cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, serve the Banana Split Pie Recipe in individual clear cups layered with the same ingredients in miniature form. You can also sprinkle extra chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips around your dessert table for an interactive topping bar, letting guests customize their slices with their favorite extras.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, this pie keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to avoid it absorbing other fridge odors and to maintain that perfectly creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to make the Banana Split Pie Recipe ahead of time beyond a couple of days, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to keep the fruit fresh and the filling creamy.
Reheating
This no-bake pie is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, just allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a slightly softer texture before slicing and serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust for this Banana Split Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! While a graham cracker crust is traditional and adds a lovely crunch, you can experiment with chocolate cookie crusts or even a nut-based crust depending on your flavor preferences.
Is this Banana Split Pie Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this pie is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin. Just check that your chocolate syrup and any toppings do not contain animal-derived additives.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Fresh fruit is best for this recipe because frozen fruit may release extra moisture and make the pie soggy. If you must use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding.
How can I make this Banana Split Pie lighter?
For a lighter version, substitute the heavy whipping cream with a lower-fat whipped topping and reduce the powdered sugar slightly. This cuts calories while keeping the pie light and satisfying.
How long before serving should I make this pie?
It’s ideal to prepare the pie at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to chill and set, but making it up to a day ahead works great too for convenience and deeper flavors.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to smile when you taste this Banana Split Pie Recipe—each bite is a joyous mix of creamy, fruity, and chocolaty goodness that feels like a celebration. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just treating yourself, this no-fuss dessert will quickly become a beloved favorite. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch it disappear from the table!
Print
Banana Split Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus at least 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
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.
