The Ultimate Banana Split Layer Cake for Any Celebration

This Banana Split Layer Cake captures all the iconic flavors of the beloved dessert—bananas, strawberries, chocolate, and whipped cream—stacked into a beautifully layered cake that’s as light as it is delicious. It’s the perfect guilt-free indulgence for birthdays, summer gatherings, or when you’re just craving something sweet and fun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the Banana Split Flavors: Layers of banana, strawberry, chocolate, and cream in every bite.
Light but Indulgent: Made with wholesome swaps for a balanced dessert.
Showstopper Presentation: Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Easy to Customize: Add or remove toppings based on your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup sugar substitute (or light brown sugar)
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup light whipped topping
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
• 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (drained)

For the Frosting

• 1 1/2 cups light whipped topping
• 2 tbsp sugar-free chocolate syrup

Optional Toppings

• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or peanuts
• 2 tbsp sugar-free sprinkles
• Maraschino cherries (one per slice)

Instructions

Make the Cake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spray two 8-inch round cake pans with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, applesauce, sugar substitute, eggs, and vanilla.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring just until combined.
• Divide the batter evenly between the pans.
• Bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cakes cool completely before assembling.

Prepare the Filling

• In a small bowl, fold strawberries and pineapple into 1/2 cup whipped topping.
• Chill until ready to use.

Assemble the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
• Spread the strawberry-pineapple filling evenly over the top.
• Place the second cake layer on top.
• Frost the entire cake with remaining whipped topping.

Add the Finishing Touches

• Drizzle chocolate syrup over the frosted cake.
• Sprinkle with chopped nuts and sprinkles.
• Top each slice with a maraschino cherry before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Calories: 170 | Carbs: 22g | Fat: 5g | Protein: 3g | Sugar: 10g | Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper, the sweeter—skip extra sugar.
• Cool Cake Completely: Prevents whipped topping from melting.
• Customize Fillings: Swap strawberries with raspberries, or add a thin layer of chocolate pudding.
• Make Ahead: Cake layers can be baked and frozen in advance for easy prep.

Why This Recipe Works

• Flavor Variety: Layers mimic the classic banana split flavors, offering fruity, creamy, and chocolatey notes.
• Lighter Ingredients: Applesauce, whipped topping, and whole wheat flour keep it satisfying without being heavy.
• Easy Assembly: Despite its elegant look, this cake is simple to layer and decorate.
• Fun and Festive: Great for celebrations or a cheerful weekend dessert.

Banana Split Layer Cake is everything you love about the ice cream parlor classic—transformed into a delightful, layered dessert. With a moist banana base, fruity filling, and creamy topping, it’s a lighter way to indulge without compromising on flavor. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a special treat, this cake is sure to impress.