Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafer crumbs)

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the banana layer:

• 3 ripe bananas, sliced

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (to prevent browning)

For the cheesecake filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

For the toppings:

• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

• ½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped (reserve some whole cherries for garnish)

• ¼ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

• Chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce (for drizzling)

• Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust:

• In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.

• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish to form an even crust.

• Place in the fridge to chill while preparing the filling.

2. Prepare the bananas:

• Slice bananas and toss gently with lemon juice to prevent browning.

• Spread sliced bananas evenly over the chilled crust.

3. Make the cheesecake filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

• Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat until fully combined.

• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.

4. Assemble the cheesecake:

• Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the banana layer and crust.

• Smooth the top with a spatula.

5. Add toppings:

• Evenly distribute the crushed pineapple and chopped maraschino cherries over the cheesecake filling.

• Sprinkle chopped nuts on top.

• Drizzle chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce in a decorative pattern.

6. Chill:

• Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set properly.

7. Serve:

• Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and whole maraschino cherries on top.

• Slice and enjoy your heavenly no-bake banana split cheesecake!

Would you like tips on variations or how to make it extra decadent?