There’s something undeniably delightful about a dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of banana splits with the ease of a dump cake. Imagine a warm, gooey creation, bursting with ripe bananas, rich chocolate, and creamy vanilla—all baked together until golden and bubbly. celebratory cake roll This Banana Split Dump Cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience that transports you straight back to simpler times when dessert meant joyfully diving into a bowl of sweetness.
Picture this: It’s a sunny afternoon at a family gathering, laughter fills the air, and someone brings out this decadent dessert. The aroma wafts through the room, enticing everyone to gather around like moths to a flame. With every spoonful, you’re reminded of childhood memories, hot summer days, and the simple pleasure of indulging in something so utterly delightful. Trust me; once you serve this at your next gathering, everyone will be begging for the recipe—and probably your secret ingredient.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Banana Split Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days
- Its flavor profile combines classic banana split elements with comforting cake goodness
- Visually appealing with its vibrant toppings, it makes any meal feel festive
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to different fruit or topping preferences!
Sharing this treat with friends and family always brings smiles—everyone loves it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are perfectly ripe for optimal sweetness and flavor in the cake.
- Chocolate Cake Mix: A standard box mix works wonders here; opt for your favorite brand for best results. For more inspiration, check out this Ultimate Chocolate Cake recipe.
- Pineapple Chunks: Use canned for convenience; they add moisture and tropical flair to the dish.
- Heavy Cream: Whipping cream gives a rich texture that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Cherries: Maraschino cherries on top add a pop of color and classic banana split charm.
- Walnuts or Pecans: Chopped nuts add crunch; choose your favorite nut or skip them if preferred.
- Coconut Flakes: Sweetened coconut adds an additional layer of flavor and texture—don’t skip this!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake cooks evenly from start to finish.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier later.
Layer the Ingredients: Begin by layering sliced ripe bananas evenly at the bottom of the dish. Follow with pineapple chunks, letting their juices seep into the bananas.
Add Cake Mix Evenly: Sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix over your layered fruits evenly. colorful fruit pizza cookies Don’t stir; we want those layers intact for visual appeal!
Pour Over Heavy Cream: Drizzle heavy cream across the top of the cake mix layer like you’re painting a masterpiece. This will create that gooey texture we love!
Toppings Galore!: Now sprinkle walnuts or pecans and coconut flakes generously on top. Finish with maraschino cherries placed strategically for decoration and added sweetness.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place your creation in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until it turns golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The smell will be heavenly!
Once done baking, let it cool slightly before serving—though who can resist diving in right away? Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent experience!
You Must Know
- Banana Split Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of a classic banana split with the simplicity of a dump cake
- Its warm, gooey texture and sweet aroma will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Layer your ingredients in a baking dish, ensuring even distribution for perfect cooking. Bake until golden and bubbly for about 40-45 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in other fruits like strawberries or use chocolate syrup instead of caramel. refreshing fruit salsa recipe Add nuts for crunch or even a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until warm and gooey again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This Banana Split Dump Cake is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top
- Ensure your bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness
- Adjust baking time based on your oven’s temperament; every oven is unique!
Sometimes I still think about that time my friends devoured this cake at my birthday party—leaving only crumbs! Their happy faces were all the feedback I needed.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas in my Banana Split Dump Cake?
cheesecake swirled bars. For more inspiration, check out this Baileys Irish Cream Cheesecake recipe.
Yes, but fresh bananas yield better texture and flavor in this dessert.
What can I substitute for cake mix?
You can use homemade cake batter or even gluten-free cake mix if needed.
How do I know when the dump cake is done?
Look for golden edges and bubbling fruit to indicate it’s perfectly baked.
Banana Split Dump Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Banana Split Dump Cake is a nostalgic dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of a classic banana split with the simplicity of a dump cake. This warm, gooey treat features layers of ripe bananas, sweet pineapple, rich chocolate cake mix, and creamy toppings—all baked to perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, this dessert will have everyone reminiscing about simpler times while indulging in its delightful sweetness.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 (15.25 oz) box chocolate cake mix
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup maraschino cherries
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer sliced bananas and pineapple chunks at the bottom of the dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix over the fruit layers.
- Drizzle the heavy cream over the cake mix.
- Top with chopped nuts and coconut flakes, then add maraschino cherries for decoration.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
