Sweet and Creamy Banana Split Dip Dessert Recipe

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Banana splits are the perfect sweet Summer treat, but why not have the flavors all year round as a dip? After all, dips are more fun anyway. We’ll create layers of the classic banana split flavors and top it with some whipped cream and cherries. This makes a great dessert or the perfect side dish at your next cookout.

Now let’s get right to the good stuff…

how to make banana split dip

INGREDIENTS:

Gather your ingredients and get ready to make this amazing dip, perfect for dessert tonight. This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • 2-8 oz. cream cheese-softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • Milk or cream
  • 1/2 cup strawberry sundae topping
  • 1/2 cup pineapple sundae topping
  • Ripe bananas
  • Chocolate sauce
  • Whipped cream
  • Maraschino cherries

ingredient information:

  • Cream cheese: We prefer using Philadelphia brand cream cheese for this dip, though any brand will work. If you haven’t had a chance to leave it out to soften, just pop it in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds.
  • Powdered Sugar: This is not to be confused with white sugar. It’s very finely milled and combined with a small amount of an anti clumping agent so that it appears like snow. It melts into the cream cheese to form the perfect creamy base to take on other flavors.
  • Vanilla: A quality vanilla really does elevate any recipe. Skip the imitation and use a quality vanilla extract instead.
  • Milk or cream: The milk in this recipe is only used if you need to alter the consistency of the creamy base. You can use any type of unflavored milk or cream for this.
  • Strawberry and Pineapple sundae toppings: Choose your favorite ice cream toppings for this recipe. You can also swap these out for preserves if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Chocolate syrup: We chose Hershey’s dark chocolate syrup, but you can choose your favorite or even hot fudge (without the heat so that you don’t melt the whipped cream).
  • Ripe bananas: As you know, bananas go from perfect to ick very quickly. So, buy them close to the time of use and avoid bananas with brown spots since they will be overripe.
  • Whipped cream: We used creamy whipped topping from a can, but you can swap it out for Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream.
  • Maraschino cherries: These cherries are particularly sweet and perfect as the finishing touch on this dessert dip. Any brand will do.

instructions:

Stick around to the end, and I’ll tell you how to make homemade whipped cream as a special touch.

  1. With a hand blender, mix together cream cheese and vanilla.
  2. Then slowly mix in the powdered sugar until smooth.
  3. Add a splash of milk at a time until you reach a desired consistency.
  4. In a deep pie dish, create the following layers: strawberry preserves, half cream mixture, pineapple preserves, half cream mixture.
  5. Thinly slice the ripe bananas and layer on top in a pattern.
  6. Next decorate with whipped cream.
  7. Drizzle on chocolate syrup.
  8. Garnish with maraschino cherries.
easy banana split dip dessert recipe served on a cookie and topped with a cherry
  • add vanilla extract to the bowl for the banana split dip
  • adding powdered sugar to the base for the banana split dip
  • using a hand mixer to beat the cream for the banana split dip
  • mixing strawberry sundae topping into the creamy base for the banana split dip
  • mixing pineapple sundae topping into the creamy base for the banana split dip
  • slicing bananas
  • placing sliced bananas on top of the banana split dip
  • placing whipped cream and chocolate sauce on top of the banana split dip
  • adding cherries on top of the banana split dip
  • serving the banana split dessert dip on shortbread cookies

my recipe tips

  • Optional presentation: Instead of mixing the sundae toppings into the creamy base, divide the top into 3 triangular sections and cover each in one of the classic toppings, pineapple, strawberry and chocolate syrup. Then add the bananas, whipped cream and cherries. This gives the dip a different look and a chance for your guests to choose their favorite banana split flavors.
  • More like ice cream: For a more ice cream feel, place the base in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up the sweet cream just before serving. If it gets too firm, let it thaw a bit again before serving.
  • Special touch: Serve it with extra cherries on the side.

recipe video

🍽️ serving ideas

There are lots of things that you can dip into this delicious banana split dip, but our favorite is shortbread cookies. You can also just use mini waffle cones or pieces of waffle cone, Oreos, waffle cookies, graham crackers or fruit.

If you’re having a get together with lots of appetizers, this dip recipe is great alongside this waffle cone dip or this BBQ chicken dip. Then there will be a little something for everyone.

how to make HOMEMADE WHIPPED CREAM

Making homemade whipped cream is so simple if you follow these few steps:

  1. Start with very cold heavy whipping cream. Also, cool down the bowl and beaters in the fresher for about 15 minutes prior to whipping.
  2. In the bowl place 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 Tbsp sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
  3. Begin beating the cream with your hand mixer. However, don’t overwork the cream. Once you see the heavy cream start to thicken, pay close attention. As soon as it reaches the right consistency, stop whipping.

start with the right tools

The main kitchen tool that you’ll need to make this dip is a simple hand mixer. I think that we still have the one that we received as a wedding gift 30 years ago now. Those things last forever. However, if you’re looking to buy your first ever or just want an upgrade, check out THIS ONE or THIS ONE. They’re both reasonably priced, work great and add a little style to your dip making experience. Pair it with this set of mixing bowls that comes in a variety of colors.

easy banana split dip dessert recipe served on a cookie and topped with a cherry

recipe notes

  • Tips: Check out my recipe tips above to help you get the best results for this super yummy dip.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers (if you even have any) covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Note that the whipped cream will “deflate” in the fridge. I don’t recommend freezing this dip, as it may affect the texture.
  • Dip prep: You can prepare the base of this banana split dip ahead of time, but hold off on adding the toppings until just before time to serve. That include the bananas as they will brown quickly once placed on top.

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