Description
This Banana Split Dump Cake is an easy, delicious dessert that combines the classic flavors of a banana split into a simple layered cake. Featuring ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, fresh strawberries, and a moist yellow cake mix topped with melted butter, it bakes to a golden perfection. Finished with whipped cream, extra fruit, crunchy nuts, and optional chocolate syrup, this dessert is perfect for family gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Layers
- 4 medium ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Cake Topping
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Toppings and Garnishes
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is at the right temperature when the cake is assembled.
- Layer the Fruit: In a baking dish, arrange the sliced bananas evenly, then layer the drained crushed pineapple, followed by the sliced strawberries. This creates the flavorful fruit base for the cake.
- Add Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow or white cake mix over the layered fruit to cover them completely, ensuring an even bake and a nice cake topping.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the dry cake mix layer. This step is crucial as the butter moistens the cake mix, allowing it to bake into a moist, golden topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the dump cake cool slightly. Then serve warm topped with whipped cream or whipped topping, additional sliced bananas and strawberries, chopped nuts, and optional chocolate syrup or melted chocolate for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid a soggy cake base.
- You can substitute whipped topping for heavy cream to save time and effort.
- Use fresh, ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- The cake mix can be either yellow or white depending on your preference.
- Chocolate syrup or melted chocolate adds a classic banana split touch but is optional.
