Easy No-Bake Banana Split Lush Dessert: The Perfect Crowd-Pleaser for Summer
Prepare to delight your taste buds with our incredibly easy and utterly delicious **Banana Split Lush Dessert**. This heavenly, layered dessert combines the beloved flavors of a classic banana split into a convenient, crowd-pleasing pan dessert. Imagine a light, sweet banana cream base, elegantly topped with luscious chocolate sauce, vibrant maraschino cherries, and juicy pineapple chunks. It’s the ultimate treat that promises to bring smiles to any summer holiday, potluck, or BBQ gathering. With a recipe yielding a generous 12 to 20 slices, depending on how you cut it, this is your go-to dessert for feeding a happy crowd!
What Makes This Banana Split Lush So Irresistible?
If you’re a fan of layered desserts, you’re in for a real treat. This Banana Split Lush builds on the popular “Lush” dessert concept, known for its rich, creamy layers and delightful textures. Unlike a traditional ice cream banana split that melts quickly, this dessert offers a stable, easy-to-serve alternative with all the familiar flavors you adore. It’s perfect for making ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and providing a stress-free dessert option for your events.
You might recall our famous Banana Cream Lush with Bananas Foster Sauce, or perhaps you’ve tried our other fan favorites like Coconut Cream Lush, Lemon Lush, or Mocha Lush. Each of these recipes is designed to be a generous crowd-pleaser, and this Banana Split Lush is no exception. It takes the classic banana split experience and transforms it into a dreamy, layered dessert that’s both elegant and incredibly simple to prepare.
Ingredients for Your Ultimate Banana Split Dessert Lush
Crafting this spectacular dessert involves four distinct layers, each contributing to its unique texture and flavor profile. We even offer two options for the crust, so you can tailor it to your preference!
Bottom Graham Cracker Crust Layer (for a truly no-bake option):
This classic no-bake crust is quick, easy, and offers a delightful crunch.
- 2 (5 ounce) packages of regular, honey or vanilla graham crackers: Approximately 10 ounces total. Finely grind them using a food processor for best results, or manually crush them in a bag for a slightly coarser texture. The fine crumbs ensure a solid, even base.
- 5-8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted and cooled: The amount of butter can vary slightly depending on humidity and how finely your graham crackers are ground. Start with 5 tablespoons and add more if the mixture feels too dry to press firmly. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dessert.
Bottom Pecan Crust Layer (for a baked crust option with a nutty twist):
For those who prefer a more traditional, slightly baked and nutty base, this pecan crust is an excellent choice. It adds a depth of flavor that complements the banana and cream cheese beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the main structure for the baked crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Binds the ingredients and creates a rich, tender crust.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped or food processor processed pecans: Pecans add a wonderful nutty flavor and a delicate crunch. Ensure they are finely processed for an even crust.
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar: Sweetens the crust, balancing the nuttiness of the pecans.
Cream Cheese Layer (The luscious 2nd Layer):
This creamy, tangy layer provides a perfect contrast to the sweet banana pudding and helps bind the dessert together.
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature: Softened cream cheese is crucial for a smooth, lump-free mixture. This ensures a silky texture that melts in your mouth.
- 1 cup granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer to perfection.
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice: The lemon juice is key! It brightens the flavor, adds a subtle tang, and helps cut through the richness of the cream cheese, making the dessert feel lighter.
Banana Cream Pudding Layer (The irresistible 3rd Layer):
The heart of the “Banana Cream Lush” identity, this layer delivers a burst of banana flavor.
- 2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant banana cream pudding mix: Instant pudding makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy. The banana cream flavor is essential here.
- 4 cups milk: Use cold milk to ensure the pudding sets properly and quickly. You can reduce it to 3 1/2 cups if you prefer an even thicker pudding layer.
Whipped & Toppings Layer (The delightful 4th Layer):
This layer adds a light, airy finish and the iconic banana split adornments.
- 1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Thawed whipped topping provides an easy, stable, and airy top layer. You can substitute with an equal amount of freshly whipped cream if preferred, though note our freezing tip for Cool Whip.
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts: If you used the pecan crust, adding more nuts on top enhances the flavor and texture.
- Maraschino cherries (a 10 ounce jar, about 284 grams): These bright red jewels add visual appeal and a classic cherry flavor. You’ll likely have some extra for individual serving garnishes.
- 1 can (20 ounce/1 pound 4 ounces/567 grams) pineapple chunks: Drained pineapple chunks bring a sweet and tangy tropical note, another staple of the banana split. Again, some extra for serving is a nice touch.
- Chocolate sauce to drizzle over slices: The ultimate banana split topping! Drizzle generously just before serving for that signature look and taste.
- Right before serving: 1 freshly sliced banana (optional): For the freshest banana flavor and to prevent browning, add freshly sliced bananas directly onto individual servings or just before the dessert is served.
Essential Kitchen Tools for this Banana Split Dessert
Having the right tools makes the preparation process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the items you’ll need:
- 9-inch x 13-inch baking pan: This standard size is perfect for layering and serving a large group.
- Food processor: Invaluable for finely grinding graham crackers or pecans for your chosen crust, ensuring an even texture.
- Large mixing bowls: You’ll need a few for preparing the different layers independently.
- Measuring cups: For accurate dry ingredient measurements.
- Wet measure: For precise liquid measurements like milk and melted butter.
- Baking spatula: Useful for scraping bowls and mixing.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothing out the pudding mixture.
- Offset spatula: This is your secret weapon for evenly spreading each creamy layer, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
- Spatula for serving: A sturdy serving spatula will help you get those perfect, clean slices.
Why This One-Pan Dessert is a Party Essential
This Banana Split Lush is more than just a dessert; it’s a statement piece that simplifies entertaining. Its “one-pan” nature means fewer dishes and easier transportation, making it absolutely perfect to bring along to work parties, BBQ’s, picnics, family outings, and any gathering where a delicious, shareable dessert is appreciated. The vibrant colors and familiar flavors make it an instant hit with both kids and adults.
You truly are going to fall in love with this Banana Split Lush recipe. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Just like our heavenly Chocolate Lasagna, this banana split masterpiece will undoubtedly be the star of any BBQ or gathering you grace with its presence. Its layered beauty and harmonious flavors make it an unforgettable dessert experience.
Banana Split Lush Dessert
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
Bottom Graham Cracker Crust Layer (for no bake crust option):
- 10 ounces graham crackers (2 5-ounce packages, finely ground using a food processor or manually crushing)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled
Bottom Pecan Crust Layer (for baked crust option):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- ½ cup pecans finely chopped or food processor processed
- ¼ cup granulated white sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
Banana Cream Pudding Layer
- 6.8 ounces instant banana cream pudding mix (2 3.4-ounce packages)
- 4 cups milk
Whipped & Toppings Layer
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (you can substitute the same amount whipped cream)
- 2-3 chopped pecans or walnuts
- 10 ounce maraschino cherries (may be extra left over)
- 20 ounce pineapple chunks (may be extra left over)
- 3 tbsp chocolate sauce (to drizzle over slices)
- 1 large banana sliced and added right before serving
Before You Begin & Expert Tips
Instructions
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For the No-Bake Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium-large bowl, thoroughly combine the melted and cooled unsalted butter with the finely ground graham crackers. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Once pressed, cover the pan and chill it in the refrigerator while you prepare the next layer. This helps the crust set.
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Alternatively, for the Traditional Baked Pecan Crust: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, melted and cooled butter, finely ground pecans, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes (25 minutes usually yields the best golden brown color for me) until the crust is beautifully golden. Allow the crust to cool completely to room temperature before adding any subsequent layers. This prevents the warm crust from melting the creamy layers.
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Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer (2nd Layer): Using a hand-held electric mixer (or stand mixer), beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1-2 tablespoons of fresh squeezed lemon juice (2 tablespoons works best for a brighter flavor). Mix until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. Evenly spread this creamy mixture over your prepared and cooled crust.
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Create the Banana Cream Pudding Layer (3rd Layer): In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant banana cream pudding mix. Continue whisking vigorously for 4-5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens and sets. Once thickened, spread this banana cream pudding layer evenly on top of the cream cheese mixture.
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Finish with the Whipped Topping & Garnishes (4th Layer): Gently spread the thawed whipped topping over the banana cream pudding layer using an offset spatula for a smooth finish. Arrange the maraschino cherries and drained pineapple chunks artistically on top of the whipped layer. For the final touch, just before serving, generously drizzle with chocolate sauce. You can also add freshly sliced bananas on top of individual servings right before they are enjoyed to ensure they don’t brown. For more defined slices, you can optionally freeze the entire dessert overnight (without the Bananas Fosters sauce if you were making that version, but for this recipe, the toppings can be frozen) – just be aware that if you substituted homemade whipped cream, it might not hold up as well as frozen whipped topping like Cool Whip. Enjoy your magnificent Banana Split Lush!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
