Banana split lush

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Delight in a Classic Treat: Banana Split Lush Dessert

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy cool, creamy desserts that bring back memories of fun-filled days and delicious treats. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that combines all the flavors of a classic banana split into a layered, no-bake dessert: Banana Split Lush Dessert.

This delightful treat features a graham cracker crust, a banana cream pudding cheesecake layer with real banana slices, and a strawberry pudding layer, all topped with fluffy Cool Whip and drizzled with chocolate sauce. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Banana Split Lush Dessert is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to make. With layers of creamy, fruity goodness and a crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike. The best part? No baking is required, making it a perfect dessert for hot summer days.

The Layers of Deliciousness

Graham Cracker Crust:
The foundation of this dessert is a simple yet flavorful graham cracker crust, providing a perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy layers.

Banana Cream Pudding Cheesecake Layer:
This layer combines the tangy richness of cream cheese with the sweet, smooth taste of banana cream pudding, plus fresh banana slices for added texture and flavor.

Strawberry Pudding Layer:
A layer of strawberry pudding adds a fruity, refreshing note that complements the banana layer perfectly.

Cool Whip and Toppings:
A generous layer of Cool Whip makes this dessert light and fluffy, while a drizzle of chocolate sauce and optional maraschino cherries and chopped nuts add the perfect finishing touches.

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Banana Cream Pudding Cheesecake Layer:
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana cream pudding mix
  • 1 3/4 cups cold milk
  • 2 cups sliced bananas
• For the Strawberry Pudding Layer:
  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant strawberry pudding mix
  • 1 3/4 cups cold milk
• For the Topping:
  • 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
  • Chocolate sauce (for drizzling)
  • Maraschino cherries and chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Refrigerate while preparing the layers.
2. Prepare the Banana Cream Pudding Cheesecake Layer:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the banana cream pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
   • Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
   • Gently fold in the sliced bananas.
   • Spread the banana cream pudding cheesecake layer evenly over the graham cracker crust.
3. Prepare the Strawberry Pudding Layer:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the strawberry pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
   • Spread the strawberry pudding layer evenly over the banana cream pudding cheesecake layer.
4. Add the Topping:
   • Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the strawberry pudding layer.
   • Drizzle with chocolate sauce.
   • If desired, garnish with maraschino cherries and chopped nuts.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until set.
   • Slice and serve chilled.

Experience the joy of a classic banana split in a new, delightful way with this Banana Split Lush Dessert. With its creamy layers and refreshing flavors, it’s a dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every luscious bite!