The Ninety Calorie Banana Split
A light and refreshing banana split featuring watermelon gelatin cubes, ripe bananas, whipped topping, and walnuts, perfect for a low-calorie dessert option for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the watermelon gelatin completely in boiling water in a medium bowl. Stir in cold water.
- Pour the mixture slowly into an 8-inch square pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until the gelatin is firm.
- Cut the gelatin into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Divide the gelatin cubes into 4 dessert dishes. Halve and split the bananas.
- Just before serving, place 2 pieces of banana in each dish.
- Top with thawed Cool Whip lite whipped topping.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer texture, ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved before adding cold water. You can substitute the watermelon gelatin with any other sugar-free flavor, like strawberry or raspberry, if preferred. If you're looking for a vegan option, use coconut whipped cream instead of Cool Whip lite. This dessert is light yet satisfying, making it a great low-calorie option.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a summer gathering or as a refreshing treat after a meal. Serve it alongside a light fruit salad or a scoop of your favorite sorbet for added flavor. The Ninety Calorie Banana Split pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those who want a richer dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have extra gelatin cubes, keep them separate from the bananas and Cool Whip to maintain their texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the consistency of the gelatin and toppings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Ninety Calorie Banana Split contains roughly 727 calories, with 10g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g 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 dessert in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the gelatin and refrigerate it a day ahead. Just keep the gelatin cubes separate from the bananas and whipped topping until you're ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.
Is this dessert suitable for diabetics?
Yes, this recipe uses sugar-free gelatin and Cool Whip, making it a suitable option for those managing their sugar intake. However, always check specific dietary needs and preferences with a healthcare provider.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. For added crunch, consider using toasted coconut flakes or crushed graham crackers as a topping.
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).