If you have a soft spot for classic banana splits but want a fun, crowd-pleasing twist, this Banana Split Pie Recipe is an absolute dream come true. Rich cream cheese and fluffy whipped topping form a luscious base beneath layers of fresh bananas, juicy pineapple, and sweet strawberries, all nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust. Topped with crunchy nuts, chocolate syrup, and cheerful maraschino cherries, this pie captures the essence of the beloved ice cream sundae, but with the ease of a no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Banana Split Pie Recipe plays a crucial role, combining simple pantry staples and fresh fruit to create a stunning combination of flavors and textures. From the creamy base to the fruit layers and crunchy toppings, everything comes together effortlessly.
- Prepared graham cracker crust (9-inch): Provides a buttery, slightly sweet foundation with a satisfying crunch.
- Cream cheese (8-ounce package, softened): Adds a smooth, tangy richness that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and lightly thickens the cream cheese layer for a silky texture.
- Whipped topping (8-ounce container, divided): Brings airy lightness and creaminess, enhancing the texture contrast.
- Ripe bananas (2, sliced): Deliver that classic banana flavor, tender and sweet.
- Crushed pineapple (8-ounce can, drained): Offers a juicy, tropical zing that brightens every bite.
- Chopped strawberries (1 cup): Add vibrant color and a lovely sweet-tart note.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup): Provide crunch and a buttery, nutty depth.
- Chocolate syrup: A drizzling touch of rich chocolate to mimic the sundae experience.
- Maraschino cherries: The perfect decorative topper with a burst of sweetness and color.
How to Make Banana Split Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Begin by beating the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it forms a rich, velvety base that contrasts beautifully with the fruity layers. Then, gently fold in one cup of the whipped topping to lighten the texture and add that classic fluffy feel.
Step 2: Spread the Base in the Crust
Take your prepared graham cracker crust and evenly spread the cream cheese mixture across the bottom. This layer will hold the fruit, so make sure it’s level and smooth to create a solid yet tender foundation for your layers.
Step 3: Add the Fruit Layers
Next, arrange the sliced bananas carefully over the cream cheese layer, ensuring they cover it evenly. Then spread the crushed pineapple over the bananas, followed by the chopped strawberries. These layers bring fresh brightness and juicy flavor, essential to recreating the classic banana split taste in pie form.
Step 4: Top and Decorate Your Pie
Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the fruit layers, fully covering them. This shell of creaminess keeps the fruit from drying out and adds its own sweet, airy richness. Finally, sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top for delightful crunch, drizzle with chocolate syrup to echo the sundae’s indulgence, and place a few maraschino cherries as a cheerful finishing touch.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the pie to set perfectly, making it easier to slice and enhancing the overall texture.
How to Serve Banana Split Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Banana Split Pie Recipe, consider adding fresh banana slices or an extra drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce just before serving. A sprinkle of toasted coconut or a dusting of finely grated white chocolate can bring additional flair and flavor, making each slice even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
This pie stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a light citrus sorbet or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream can complement the richness and add a refreshing balance. A crisp mint leaf served alongside can also add a clean, herbaceous contrast that brightens the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the pie slices on colorful plates with extra maraschino cherries and miniature umbrella picks for a playful summer vibe. You can also serve this Banana Split Pie Recipe in individual glass parfait cups, layering the ingredients for a delightful presentation that shows off each yummy layer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Banana Split Pie should be stored covered in the refrigerator to keep the fruit fresh and prevent the cream layers from drying out. It’s best enjoyed within 24 hours, as the bananas tend to brown if kept much longer.
Freezing
This pie isn’t the best candidate for freezing due to the fresh fruit and whipped topping, which can separate and become watery once thawed. If you must freeze, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly, but be aware the texture may change slightly.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. The pie is at its best served cold, allowing the fresh fruit and creamy layers to shine.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple chopped finely works wonderfully and adds a delightful juiciness, but be sure to drain it well to avoid sogginess in the pie.
Is there a way to make this pie vegan?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use dairy-free whipped topping. Make sure the crust is vegan-friendly, and use maple syrup or agave instead of powdered sugar if needed.
How long can I prepare this pie ahead of time?
Ideally, this pie should be made and served within 24 hours to enjoy the freshest bananas and best texture. Preparing it too far in advance can cause the bananas to brown and the crust to become soggy.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Definitely! Fresh whipped cream adds an even lighter, fluffier texture and a homemade touch that’s truly lovely for this pie.
What can I substitute if I don’t have walnuts or pecans?
You can use any nuts you prefer, like almonds or hazelnuts, or even omit nuts altogether. Toasted coconut flakes are also a fantastic alternative for crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a fun, easy dessert that captures the nostalgic charm of a banana split while delivering the wow factor of a pie, this Banana Split Pie Recipe is your new best friend. It’s quick to assemble, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Banana Split Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Split Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping with fresh bananas, pineapple, and strawberries. Topped with chopped nuts, chocolate syrup, and maraschino cherries, it’s a refreshing, easy-to-make pie perfect for summer or any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 prepared graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Filling
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
Toppings
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- Maraschino cherries, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in 1 cup of the whipped topping to combine evenly.
- Spread the base layer: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture across the bottom of the prepared graham cracker crust to create a creamy foundation for the pie.
- Layer the fruits: Arrange the sliced bananas over the cream cheese layer, followed by a layer of crushed pineapple, and then sprinkle the chopped strawberries on top, creating distinct fruit layers.
- Add the topping layer: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the fruit layers to cover them completely, providing a smooth and creamy finish.
- Garnish the pie: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top, drizzle chocolate syrup artistically across the pie, and place several maraschino cherries on top for decoration and added sweetness.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the pie to set properly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- For extra flavor, drizzle some caramel sauce along with the chocolate syrup.
- Use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a homemade touch.
- Best enjoyed within 24 hours due to the bananas, which may brown over time.
