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As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, no-bake desserts have emerged as a beloved trend among home bakers and dessert enthusiasts alike. With their effortless preparation, minimal cleanup, and an array of flavor combinations, no-bake treats are perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without the hassle of turning on the oven. Among these delightful creations, the Decadent No-Bake Banana Split Bars stand out as a nostalgic indulgence that evokes memories of summertime ice cream parlors and family gatherings.

No-Bake Banana Split Bars

Discover the joy of making Decadent No-Bake Banana Split Bars—a delightful twist on a classic dessert that is as easy to prepare as it is indulgent. Perfect for any occasion, these bars combine a crunchy chocolate crust with a creamy filling featuring ripe bananas and cream cheese, evoking sweet summertime memories. With minimal clean-up and no oven required, this dessert is perfect for everyone, whether a novice or a seasoned baker. Enjoy a slice of nostalgia!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

⅓ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

2 ripe bananas, sliced

1 cup heavy whipping cream

½ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained

1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the toppings:

Chocolate sauce for drizzling

Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Maraschino cherries

Sliced strawberries

Instructions
 

Prepare the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and has the consistency of wet sand.

    Press the crust: Transfer the crust mixture into a 9x9-inch baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to firmly press the mixture into an even layer at the bottom of the pan. Once evenly packed, place the pan in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

      Make the filling: In a separate large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to whip the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it's smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well incorporated.

        Combine and layer: Carefully fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese and pineapple mixture until fully combined. Evenly layer half of the sliced bananas over the chilled crust, then spread half of the filling mixture on top, smoothing it out with a spatula. Repeat the process with the remaining banana slices and filling to create a second layer.

          Chill: Once layered, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal firmness and flavor.

            Serve: After the bars have chilled and set, remove them from the refrigerator. Cut into square bars, then drizzle each bar with chocolate sauce. Top each bar with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, a maraschino cherry, and a few slices of fresh strawberries to add a burst of color.

              Enjoy: Serve the bars immediately after garnishing for the best flavor and presentation. Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy, fruity, and chocolaty goodness that captures the essence of a classic banana split in a delicious no-bake dessert!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 4 hours (chill time) | 12 bars