No Bake Banana Split Dessert

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full-sized crackers)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the cream filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whipped topping)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the banana layer:

• 3 ripe bananas, sliced

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping)
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for sweetening the whipped cream)
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional, for extra tropical flavor)
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup or hot fudge
• 1/4 cup crushed walnuts or chopped pecans (optional)
• Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
• Sprinkles (optional, for a festive touch)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Make the graham cracker crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
   • Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture starts to come together.
   • Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a crust. Use the back of a spoon to pack it down firmly.
   • Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling to let it set.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

1. Prepare the cream filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
   • Add the heavy cream (or whipped topping) and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth and fluffy.
2. Spread the filling:
   • Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.

3. Add the Banana Layer:

1. Slice the bananas:
   • Slice the bananas into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
   • Layer the banana slices evenly over the cream cheese filling, covering the entire surface.

4. Make the Topping:

1. Whip the cream:
   • In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form (or use whipped topping).
   • If you prefer a more indulgent topping, you can skip this step and use more whipped topping for an easier version.
2. Add pineapple (optional):
   • If you’re using pineapple, spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the bananas.
3. Top the dessert:
   • Spread the whipped cream over the bananas (or use whipped topping). Make sure to cover the bananas completely.
   • Drizzle the chocolate syrup (or hot fudge) over the whipped cream layer.
   • Sprinkle crushed walnuts or chopped pecans on top (optional).
   • Garnish with maraschino cherries and colorful sprinkles, if desired.

5. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the dessert for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to set and the dessert to firm up.
• Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!