Banana Split Layer Cake

Banana Split Layer Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that combines the classic flavors of a banana split into a beautiful cake. It features layers of moist banana cake, fluffy frosting, and delightful toppings, making it a treat for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, having a family gathering, or just want something sweet, this cake is sure to impress!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of banana splits. The layers of cake, frosting, and toppings create a colorful and tasty dessert that looks as good as it tastes. It’s a crowd-pleaser and can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ripe bananas!

How to Make Banana Split Layer Cake

Ingredients:

1 1⁄2 cups sugar
3⁄4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract
3⁄4 cup sour cream
3 tbsp vegetable oil
3 large eggs + 1 large egg white
2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1⁄2 tsp salt
1 cup mashed bananas (2–3 bananas)
1 1⁄2 cups salted butter
1 1⁄2 cups shortening
12 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp muddled strawberries
Pink icing color (optional)
2 tbsp cocoa powder
3 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
9 oz pink candy melts
6–7 tbsp heavy whipping cream
Cherries (for decoration)
Sliced banana (for decoration)
Chopped nuts (for decoration)
Sprinkles (for decoration)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
Beat together the butter and sugar until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add vanilla, sour cream, and oil, mixing until smooth.
Add the eggs in two batches, mixing until fully combined each time.
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add half of this mixture to the batter.
Mix in the mashed bananas, and then add the remaining dry ingredients.
Divide the batter among the three pans and bake for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool on a rack.
For the frosting, beat the butter and shortening until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until thick and smooth.
Set aside 1 cup of frosting for each chocolate and strawberry flavor.
Mix vanilla extract into the remaining frosting until smooth.
For strawberry frosting, add muddled strawberries and pink food coloring if desired.
For chocolate frosting, mix in cocoa powder and add water to thin if needed.
To make the ganache, heat chocolate chips and cream until melted and smooth.
For pink ganache, melt the candy melts with heavy cream until pourable.
Layer the cakes with alternating vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate frosting.
Drizzle chocolate and pink ganache over the top.
Decorate with sliced bananas, strawberries, cherries, and sprinkles as desired.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!

How to Serve Banana Split Layer Cake

Serve Banana Split Layer Cake chilled or at room temperature. It is perfect for a fun dessert at parties or special gatherings. Each slice should be decorated with cherries, sliced bananas, and sprinkles to enhance the visual appeal.

How to Store Banana Split Layer Cake

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap.

Tips to Make Banana Split Layer Cake

Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Feel free to adjust the toppings based on your preference—add chocolate chips, nuts, or even whipped cream!

Variation

For a different twist, you can add nuts to the batter or use cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream for a tangy flavor. You can also switch the fruit toppings based on what you like or have on hand.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for a couple of days. Frost when you’re ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of shortening in the frosting?
You can use all butter instead of shortening if you prefer. Just note that the texture may be a bit different.

3. How do I make sure my cake layers are level?
Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the baked cakes if they dome. This will give you flat layers to stack.

Enjoy making this delightful Banana Split Layer Cake, and have fun bringing all the flavors of this classic dessert to life!