A Banana Split Sundae is a classic, indulgent dessert featuring sweet bananas, creamy ice cream, rich chocolate sauce, and delicious toppings! This fun and customizable treat is perfect for parties, date nights, or a nostalgic dessert at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic & timeless – A beloved dessert favorite since the early 1900s!
- Perfectly customizable – Choose your favorite ice cream flavors and toppings.
- No cooking required – Ready in just 5 minutes!
- Great for sharing – Make it as simple or extravagant as you like.
- Fun for kids & adults – A crowd-pleasing dessert for all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Traditional Banana Split:
- 1 banana, split in half lengthwise
- 3 scoops ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry)
- Chocolate syrup
- Strawberry sauce or fresh strawberries
- Pineapple chunks or pineapple sauce
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
- Chopped nuts (peanuts, pecans, or almonds)
Optional Toppings:
- Caramel sauce
- Mini chocolate chips
- Sprinkles
- Crushed Oreos or graham crackers
- Toasted coconut flakes
Directions

Step 1: Assemble the Banana Base
- Peel and slice a banana in half lengthwise.
- Place the banana halves in a long dish or sundae boat.
Step 2: Add the Ice Cream
- Place three scoops of ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry) between the banana halves.
Step 3: Drizzle the Sauces
- Drizzle chocolate syrup over the chocolate ice cream.
- Pour strawberry sauce over the strawberry scoop.
- Add pineapple chunks or sauce over the vanilla scoop.
Step 4: Add Toppings
- Top each ice cream scoop with whipped cream.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or chocolate chips.
- Finish with maraschino cherries on top.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Grab a spoon and dig into this classic banana split sundae!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1-2
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lovers Banana Split – Use all chocolate ice cream and drizzle with extra fudge.
- Peanut Butter Banana Split – Add peanut butter drizzle and crushed peanut butter cups.
- Tropical Banana Split – Use coconut ice cream, mango sauce, and toasted coconut flakes.
- Healthy Banana Split – Swap ice cream for Greek yogurt and top with fresh fruit.
- Mini Banana Splits – Use banana slices and make small sundaes in cups.
Storage
- Best served immediately.
- If prepping ahead, keep ingredients separate and assemble when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use different ice cream flavors?
Absolutely! Try cookies & cream, caramel swirl, or peanut butter ice cream.
What’s the best way to cut the banana?
Slice lengthwise down the middle for a classic look.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free ice cream and coconut whipped cream.
Can I make this without ice cream?
Yes! Substitute frozen yogurt or whipped cottage cheese.
What toppings go best with banana splits?
Classic toppings include chocolate sauce, nuts, whipped cream, and cherries.
Can I make this for a party?
Yes! Set up a banana split bar with toppings for guests to customize their own.
How do I make a low-sugar version?
Use sugar-free ice cream, natural peanut butter, and fresh fruit toppings.
Can I freeze banana split leftovers?
Not recommended, as the banana and ice cream become mushy when refrozen.
How do I make a caramel banana split?
Drizzle with warm caramel sauce and add a sprinkle of sea salt.
What’s the best way to serve a banana split?
Use a long dish or sundae boat for the classic presentation.
Conclusion
This Banana Split Sundae is a fun, delicious, and nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite toppings, this easy-to-make treat is always a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a sweet, creamy indulgence!
PrintBanana Split Sundae
This Banana Split Sundae is a classic, indulgent dessert made with ripe bananas, scoops of ice cream, rich toppings, and whipped cream! It’s fun to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing—great for a special treat or a dessert party!
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1-2 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American, Classic Ice Cream Dessert
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, split in half lengthwise
- 3 scoops of ice cream (classic: vanilla, chocolate, strawberry—or your favorites!)
Toppings:
- Chocolate syrup (or hot fudge sauce)
- Strawberry sauce (or fresh sliced strawberries)
- Pineapple sauce (or crushed pineapple in syrup)
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts (peanuts, walnuts, or almonds—optional)
- Maraschino cherries (for the classic finishing touch! 🍒)
- Sprinkles or mini chocolate chips (optional, for extra fun!)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Peel and slice the banana in half lengthwise.
- Place the banana halves on either side of a long dessert dish or bowl.
Step 2: Add the Ice Cream
- Place three scoops of ice cream between the banana halves. (Traditionally, vanilla in the center, chocolate on one side, and strawberry on the other!)
Step 3: Add the Toppings
- Drizzle chocolate syrup over the chocolate ice cream, strawberry sauce over the strawberry ice cream, and pineapple sauce over the vanilla ice cream.
- Top each scoop with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts and sprinkles, if using.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Place a maraschino cherry on top of each whipped cream mound.
- Serve immediately with a long spoon and enjoy your classic Banana Split Sundae!
Serving Suggestions
- Extra Decadent: Add crushed Oreos, brownie chunks, or peanut butter drizzle.
- Healthier Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of ice cream and top with granola and fresh fruit.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Let kids build their own Banana Split with a topping bar!
Notes
- Want a tropical twist? Use coconut ice cream, mango, and toasted coconut flakes.
- Dairy-free? Swap in non-dairy ice cream and coconut whipped cream.
- Boozy version? Drizzle with Kahlúa or Baileys for an adults-only treat!