Introduction

The Banana Split Dump Cake is a delightful twist on the classic banana split dessert, combining fresh fruit with a moist, buttery cake topping. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.

The image shows a close-up of a square slice of a layered dessert placed on a white plate. The dessert has three visible layers: the bottom and middle layers are made of a crumbly, soft brown cake or biscuit texture, while the middle layer is topped with a thick, creamy white layer. The top layer is a thick spread of white cream with chunks of bright red strawberries and round slices of pale yellow banana neatly arranged on it. The surface beneath the plate is a white marbled texture, and the overall look is fresh and inviting. A woman's hand is slightly visible holding a spoon near the bottom right of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 medium ripe bananas, sliced
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus more for topping)
1 box yellow or white cake mix
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub whipped topping)
1-2 bananas, sliced (for garnish)
½ cup fresh strawberries, halved or sliced
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Optional: Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. Arrange the sliced bananas evenly across the bottom of the dish. Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, followed by the sliced strawberries.
Step 2: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layer. Do not stir; let it sit as a dry layer on top of the fruit. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, ensuring it covers as much of the dry mix as possible.
Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes to allow the layers to set.
Step 4: While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream into soft peaks, or use pre-made whipped topping. Spread or dollop the whipped cream over the cooled cake. Garnish with additional sliced bananas, fresh strawberries, and chopped nuts. If desired, drizzle chocolate syrup or melted chocolate on top for that authentic banana split vibe.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the whipped cream before spreading.
Substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred, or omit nuts to keep it nut-free.
Use frozen strawberries if fresh are not in season; just thaw and drain them well.
Try adding a handful of maraschino cherries on top for a classic banana split touch.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave if desired, or enjoy cold with fresh whipped cream. The fruit base can release juice over time, so it’s best eaten within a few days.

How to Serve

The image shows a square slice of dessert with three visible layers on a white plate. The bottom layer is a light brown crumbly cake. On top of that is a smooth pale yellow creamy layer. The third layer is white whipped cream spread evenly, topped with bright red strawberries and sliced yellow bananas. The strawberries are whole and vibrant, while the banana slices are placed on top in a neat arrangement. The dessert looks soft and moist, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, while yellow or white cake mix works best for a traditional flavor, you can experiment with vanilla or even spice cake mixes for a unique twist.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the dump cake a few hours before baking, but it’s best to bake it close to serving time to keep the topping crisp and fresh. Add whipped cream and garnishes just before serving.

Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 145 reviews

This Banana Split Dump Cake is a delightful twist on the classic banana split dessert, transformed into a simple, baked treat perfect for gatherings or family desserts. Layers of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and fresh strawberries are topped with a buttery cake mix and baked to golden perfection. Finished with whipped cream, more fresh fruit, nuts, and optional chocolate drizzle, this cake combines fruitiness and sweetness with minimal effort.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit Base

4 medium ripe bananas, sliced
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus more for topping)

Cake Layer

1 box yellow or white cake mix
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted

Toppings

1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub whipped topping)
1–2 bananas, sliced (for garnish)
½ cup fresh strawberries, halved or sliced
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Optional: Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the Fruit Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. Arrange the sliced bananas evenly across the bottom of the dish. Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, then top with the sliced strawberries, creating an even fruit layer.
Add the Cake Mix and Butter: Sprinkle the dry yellow or white cake mix evenly over the fruit layer, making sure not to stir. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix to moisten it thoroughly, which will help create a crisp, golden top once baked.
Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top looks golden brown and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool for about 15 minutes to allow the layers to set nicely.
Add the Toppings: While the cake is cooling, whip the heavy cream into soft peaks or prepare the whipped topping if using store-bought. Spread or dollop the whipped cream over the cooled cake generously. Garnish with additional sliced bananas, fresh strawberries, and chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor. Optionally, drizzle chocolate syrup or melted chocolate over the top to complete the banana split theme.

Notes

Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid soggy cake.
You can substitute the yellow or white cake mix with a gluten-free mix if desired.
If you prefer a lighter topping, whipped topping can be used instead of heavy cream.
The nuts can be omitted for a nut-free version or replaced with your favorite nuts.
Enjoy the cake warm or chilled, depending on preference.

Keywords: banana split dump cake, banana dessert, easy fruit dessert, baked banana cake, fruit dump cake, quick dessert