Banana Split Trifle
Description:
This Banana Split Trifle is a playful, layered dessert inspired by the classic banana split. It combines moist cake or cookie crumbs, fresh bananas, strawberry sauce, chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and nuts for a creamy, fruity, and chocolaty indulgence. Perfect for parties or a fun family dessert.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for any pudding or cake prep, optional)
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients (for 6–8 servings)
For the base:
1–2 cups of pound cake or angel food cake, cubed
OR 1–2 cups of crushed cookies (graham crackers or vanilla wafers)
For the fruit layer:
3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
For the sauces:
1 cup chocolate pudding (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup strawberry sauce (fresh strawberries blended with sugar, optional cooked)
1/2 cup caramel sauce (optional, for extra indulgence)
For the topping:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
2–3 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Chocolate shavings (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the whipped cream:
In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Set aside.
2. Prepare the chocolate pudding (if homemade):
Combine 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder in a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until thickened.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Layer the trifle:
In a large trifle bowl or individual glasses, start with a layer of cubed cake or cookie crumbs.
Add a layer of sliced bananas.
Drizzle chocolate pudding over the bananas.
Spoon strawberry sauce on top.
Repeat layers until ingredients are used, ending with a whipped cream layer.
4. Add toppings:
Sprinkle chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, and place maraschino cherries on top.
Chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve:
Scoop into bowls or serve directly from the trifle bowl. Enjoy with a spoon!
Common Questions
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge to prevent bananas from browning.
Q2: Can I use other fruits?
A: Absolutely! Strawberries, pineapple, or even kiwi can be layered in place of or with bananas.
Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use coconut cream for whipped cream, plant-based pudding, and vegan cake or cookies.
Q4: Can I skip nuts?
A: Yes