Name: Banana Split Layer Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-485193H44M13S
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk; 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping; 1/2 cup maraschino cherries; 2 bananas, sliced; 1/3 cup chocolate syrup; 1/3 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts); Optional: 1/2 cup crushed pineapple or sliced strawberries

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The Banana Split Layer Cake is a showstopping dessert that brings the nostalgic joy of a classic banana split into a delightful layered cake form. This decadent treat features layers of moist banana cake, rich whipped cream, vibrant fruit, and drizzles of chocolate that come together in a spectacular celebration of flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a dream come true for dessert lovers. It combines all the beloved elements of a banana split—bananas, cherries, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream—into a beautiful layered presentation. The moist cake layers pair perfectly with the fruity and creamy toppings, making it a great centerpiece for parties, birthdays, or any festive occasion. It is visually impressive yet approachable enough for home bakers.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Ripe bananas (mashed)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Unsalted butter
Vanilla extract
Whole milk or buttermilk
Whipped cream or whipped topping
Maraschino cherries
Banana slices
Chocolate syrup
Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
Optional: crushed pineapple or strawberries for layers

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and both sugars until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla and mashed bananas.
Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the banana mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, layer the cakes with whipped cream, banana slices, and optional fruit like pineapple or strawberries.
Drizzle chocolate syrup over each layer and sprinkle with nuts.
Top the assembled cake with more whipped cream, cherries, and a final chocolate drizzle.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, baking time is 25–30 minutes, and assembly time is around 15 minutes. Total time: approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Variations

Ice Cream Layers: Freeze the cake with layers of softened vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a frozen version.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace whipped cream with a fruity cream cheese frosting.
Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut and mango slices for a tropical flair.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make it suitable for dietary restrictions.

storage/reheating

Store the Banana Split Layer Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Because of the fresh fruit and cream, this cake is best consumed within 48 hours. Freezing is not recommended due to the whipped cream and fresh fruit, but the cake layers alone can be frozen for up to 2 months if wrapped well. Allow to thaw before assembling.

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them covered at room temperature. Assemble before serving.

Do I have to use three layers?

No, you can opt for two thicker layers or use a rectangular pan for a simpler presentation.

What fruit works best besides bananas?

Strawberries, pineapple, or even blueberries are great additions to the layers.

Can I use store-bought cake mix?

Yes, a banana or vanilla cake mix can be used for convenience, though homemade provides richer flavor.

Is the whipped cream stable for long periods?

Use stabilized whipped cream if the cake needs to sit out for more than an hour.

Can this be made vegan?

Use plant-based butter, egg replacer, and coconut whipped cream for a vegan version.

How do I prevent bananas from browning?

Brush banana slices with lemon juice before layering to slow oxidation.

Can I add ice cream layers to the cake?

Yes, just ensure the cake is frozen between each ice cream addition to keep layers firm.

What kind of chocolate syrup should I use?

A thick, high-quality chocolate sauce or homemade ganache works best for rich flavor.

Can I add sprinkles or decorations on top?

Yes, colorful sprinkles or even mini waffle cones add a playful and festive touch.

Conclusion

The Banana Split Layer Cake is a delightful, festive dessert that captures the essence of a classic banana split in a showstopping cake. With its moist banana layers, sweet fruits, and creamy toppings, it is sure to impress both visually and in taste. Whether you are celebrating a birthday or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is a delicious way to elevate the occasion.

Banana Split Layer Cake

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The Banana Split Layer Cake transforms the classic ice cream dessert into a decadent, multi-layered cake filled with banana cake, whipped cream, fruit, chocolate syrup, and nuts. It’s a stunning and festive treat for any celebration.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and mashed bananas.
Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the banana mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Layer cakes with whipped cream, banana slices, and optional pineapple or strawberries.
Drizzle chocolate syrup over each layer and sprinkle with nuts.
Top the cake with more whipped cream, cherries, and a final drizzle of chocolate syrup.