Banana Split Pie Recipe for Kids: No-Bake Dessert

Who doesn’t love a banana split? This classic ice cream sundae transforms into a kid-friendly, no-bake banana split pie that’s creamy, colorful, and bursting with flavor. Kids can join the fun, making this a perfect family activity. According to the USDA, 80% of kids enjoy helping in the kitchen, and desserts like this spark their creativity. The International Dairy Foods Association notes that ice cream-based desserts remain a top choice for 65% of families. This article shares a simple but tasty banana split pie recipe for kids, complete with tips and variations to ensure success.

Why Kids Love This Banana Split Pie

Kids adore this dessert because it’s interactive and delicious. They can layer ingredients and decorate with toppings. The no-bake aspect makes it safe and easy. Parents love it too—it’s quick and uses common grocery ingredients. This recipe captures the joy of an ice cream parlor in a pie dish.

Benefits of Making Banana Split Pie with Kids

Boosts Creativity: Kids pick toppings like maraschino cherries or chocolate syrup.
Teaches Skills: Measuring ingredients hones math and motor skills.
Encourages Bonding: Cooking together strengthens family ties.
Safe and Simple: No ovens or hot surfaces needed.

Ingredients for Banana Split Pie

Gather these ingredients for a creamy, dreamy pie. Most are pantry staples or easy to find.

Graham Cracker Crust: 1 pre-made crust or homemade with graham cracker crumbs.
Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened for smooth mixing.
Cool Whip: 8 oz, or use whipped topping or coconut whipped cream.
Sliced Bananas: 2–3 fresh bananas for natural sweetness.
Crushed Pineapple: 1 cup, drained to avoid excess liquid.
Strawberry Sauce: ½ cup for a fruity kick.
Chocolate Sauce: ¼ cup for drizzling.
Whipped Cream: For topping, use stabilized whipped cream or Cool Whip.
Maraschino Cherries: 6–8 for colorful decoration.
Chopped Nuts: ¼ cup, like chopped pecans or walnuts, optional.
Confectioners’ Sugar: ½ cup for sweetness.
Vanilla Pudding: 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pudding for creamy layers.
Whole Milk: 2 cups for pudding preparation.
Optional Extras: Chocolate chips, crushed peanuts, or Oreo crumbs for crunch.

Step-by-Step Banana Split Pie Recipe

This recipe yields 8 servings and takes about 20 minutes to prep, plus chilling time. Follow these steps for a fun, kid-friendly dessert.

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Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Buy a pre-made graham cracker pie crust or make one. Mix 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs with ⅓ cup melted Country Crock Plant Butter. Press into a pie dish. Chill for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with ½ cup confectioners’ sugar. Add ½ cup Cool Whip. Spread evenly over the crust. Kids can help mix with a spatula.

Step 3: Add the Pudding Layer

Mix 1 box instant vanilla pudding with 2 cups whole milk. Whisk until thick. Spread over the cream cheese layer. Let kids stir the pudding for fun.

Step 4: Layer the Fruit

Slice 2–3 bananas and arrange over the pudding. Add 1 cup drained crushed pineapple. Kids can place banana slices in patterns.

Step 5: Top with Whipped Cream

Spread 1 cup Cool Whip or whipped topping over the fruit. Use a spatula to smooth it out. Kids love this part—it’s like frosting a cake!

Step 6: Decorate with Toppings

Drizzle ½ cup strawberry sauce and ¼ cup chocolate sauce. Add maraschino cherries and chopped nuts. Sprinkle chocolate chips or crushed Oreo crumbs for extra fun.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Cover with plastic wrap. Chill for 2 hours in a freezer-safe container. Slice with a pie server. Enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness!

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Bananas: Avoid overripe bananas to prevent mushiness.
Drain Pineapple Well: Excess liquid makes the pie soggy.
Chill Thoroughly: Ensures clean slices and firm layers.
Let Kids Get Creative: Allow them to choose toppings like hot fudge or crushed peanuts.
Use a Food Processor: Blend cream cheese smoothly if needed.

Variations to Try

Switch up the recipe to keep things exciting. Here are kid-approved ideas:

Banana Cheesecake Pie: Use vanilla cheesecake filling instead of pudding.
Oreo Cheesecake Twist: Swap graham cracker crust for a chocolate crust with Oreo cookies.
Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and full-fat coconut milk.
Banoffee Pie Style: Add a caramel layer for extra sweetness.
Frozen Mint Chip Pie: Mix softened strawberry ice cream with mint chips.

Nutritional Information

This dessert is indulgent but can be tweaked for balance. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:

Calories: ~350–400 kcal
Total Fat: 20g (use Greek yogurt to reduce fat)
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sugars: ~30g (from fruit and toppings)
Protein: 5g

For precise nutritional facts, check ingredient labels. Use full-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess with less fat.

Safety Tips for Cooking with Kids

Supervise Closely: Ensure kids handle tools safely.
Avoid Raw Eggs: Use pasteurized eggs if needed.
Clean Hands: Wash hands before starting.
Use Microwave-Safe Bowls: For melting chocolate or heating toppings.

Related:

FAQs

What Makes a No-Bake Banana Split Pie Kid-Friendly?

Kids can mix, layer, and decorate without using an oven. The recipe uses safe, simple ingredients.

Can I Use Frozen Sliced Strawberries Instead of Strawberry Sauce?

Yes, thaw and blend them into a sauce. Add a splash of pineapple juice for flavor.

How Long Does Banana Split Pie Last in the Fridge?

It stays fresh for 2–3 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying.

Can I Make This Pie Vegan?

Use vegan cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and plant-based butter for the crust.

What’s the Difference Between Banana Split Pie and Banana Pudding?

Banana split pie has a graham cracker crust and ice cream sundae toppings. Banana pudding uses cookies and custard.

Ready to make a fun dessert with your kids? Try this banana split pie recipe today! Share your creations in the comments or tag us on social media. Get creative with toppings like hot fudge sauce or walnut pieces. Happy baking!