7 Layer Banana Split Cake
A decadent layered dessert featuring moist yellow cake, creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, whipped cream, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, and maraschino cherries, perfect for parties and celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the yellow cake according to the package directions.
- Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes on a greased sheet pan.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, instant vanilla pudding, and milk using a hand mixer until the mixture is thickened.
- Spread the cream cheese and pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- Arrange sliced bananas on top of the cream layer.
- Top with whipped cream, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, and maraschino cherries as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. If you're short on time, you can use a pre-made cream cheese frosting instead of making your own. To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture. Be sure to let the cake cool completely before spreading the cream layer to prevent it from melting.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, as it is light and refreshing. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with 5 Layer Strawberry Dessert, making for a delightful dessert table. Consider adding chocolate sauce drizzle for an indulgent touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture of the whipped cream, avoid freezing the cake, as it may become soggy when thawed. If you need to keep it longer, consider making the cake base ahead of time and assembling it just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 7 Layer Banana Split Cake contains roughly 344 calories, with 4g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake base a day in advance and assemble the layers just before serving. This will help keep the whipped cream fresh and prevent it from becoming watery. If stored properly, the cake base can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator before adding the toppings.
What can I substitute for bananas?
If you want to substitute the bananas, consider using sliced strawberries or peaches for a different flavor profile. You can also opt for a fruit salad topping to keep it fresh. Just ensure that the fruit you choose complements the cream cheese and pudding layers.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it does not include any meat or animal products aside from dairy. However, if you want to make it completely plant-based, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a plant-based whipped cream.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).