If you love a classic banana split but don’t love chasing melting ice cream around a bowl, these Banana Split Dessert Cups are about to become your new favorite treat. They’ve got all the nostalgic flavors—banana, chocolate, strawberry, whipped cream—but layered into cute little cups that feel playful, fresh, and totally party-ready.
This is one of those desserts that instantly makes people smile. It’s colorful, creamy, and just plain fun to eat. Plus, the clear cups show off every delicious layer, which makes them extra irresistible on a dessert table or in your Pinterest saves.
They’re perfect for birthdays, summer cookouts, baby showers, or anytime you want something sweet without turning on the oven. Bonus: everyone gets their own cup, so no slicing, scooping, or serving stress.
Before You Begin – Here’s What You’ll Need:
Banana Split Dessert Cups
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- Instant Pudding Mix – There are lots of options here! I like using banana cream instant pudding for this dessert. Vanilla pudding or cheesecake pudding are other great options too.
- Half and Half Milk – This is the best milk to use because it has a higher fat content which will help the pudding thicken nicely so it holds up to the layers. You can use any milk (even 1% or fat-free) but it won’t be as thick, but it will still work.
- Graham Crackers – These are whole graham cracker sheets that have been crushed into pieces. You can make them as small or as large of pieces as you want. You could also use already crushed graham cracker crumbs (which you can buy at the store).
- Bananas – Slice the banana into thin slices.
- Crushed Pineapple – A small can of crushed pineapple that has been well drained.
- Whipped Cream – Use Cool Whip or a spray can of whipped cream. The Cool Whip will hold up better and not melt like the spray whipped cream will. If you’re serving them right away then the spray whipped cream will be just fine.
- Toppings – Chocolate syrup, strawberry syrup, chopped strawberries, sliced banana, sprinkles, chopped nuts, whipped cream, maraschino cherries are just some ideas.
- Clear 9 oz Plastic Cups – I use the Chinet brand of 9 ounce clear plastic cups for this recipe. You can use smaller cups or larger cups, but you will end up with more dessert cups or less (depending on what size cup you are using).
Instructions
- Prep : Slice the bananas thin and drain the crushed pineapple in a colander. No need to save the juices. Use a spoon and press on the crushed pineapple to ensure that it’s drained well. Place the graham cracker sheets into a ziplock bag and use a meat tenderizer or rolling pin to crush them.
- Make Pudding : Add the instant pudding mix and half and half milk into a mixing bowl. Stir with a wire whisk for 1-2 minutes or until creamy and combined and it starts to thicken. Set the bowl aside to thicken more while you prepare the rest.
- Layer the Dessert Cups: Put 3 tablespoons of crushed graham crackers into the bottom of each cup. Top with 1/4 cup pudding, 2 layers of sliced bananas, and then 2 tablespoons of the crushed pineapple. Add another 2 tablespoons of pudding and then finish it off with whipped cream.
- Toppings : Garnish the dessert cup with whatever toppings you want.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
Tips for Perfect Results (So Every Layer Shines)
These dessert cups are easy, but a few small details make them really shine:
- Use banana cream pudding if you can.
It adds that classic banana split flavor without overpowering the other layers. Vanilla or cheesecake pudding also work beautifully if that’s what you have on hand. - Half and half makes a difference.
The higher fat content helps the pudding thicken up so it holds its shape between layers. Lower-fat milk works, but the layers will be softer. - Drain the pineapple really well.
Press it in a colander with a spoon until most of the juice is gone. Too much liquid can make the layers slide around. - Slice bananas thin.
Thin slices layer better and make each bite balanced instead of banana-heavy. - Crush graham crackers to your liking.
Chunkier pieces add texture, while finer crumbs feel more like a crust. Both are delicious—it’s a personal preference.
Little steps like these keep the cups neat, creamy, and picture-perfect.
Variations and Serving Ideas
One of the best things about these Banana Split Dessert Cups is how customizable they are:
- Chocolate lovers: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup between layers, not just on top.
- Strawberry shortcake vibe: Use vanilla pudding and add chopped fresh strawberries.
- Tropical twist: Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers and add extra pineapple.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or pecans between layers.
- Kid-friendly fun: Add rainbow sprinkles or mini chocolate chips on top.
For serving, clear cups are ideal because they show off those layers, but mason jars or small dessert glasses work too. You can even make mini versions for parties or larger cups for a more indulgent dessert.
These are especially cute lined up on a tray with different toppings so everyone can customize their own.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These dessert cups are great for planning ahead—with a little strategy:
- Make ahead:
You can assemble the cups (without toppings) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. - Add toppings later:
For best texture and appearance, add whipped cream, syrups, and cherries just before serving. - Refrigerator:
Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. The bananas may darken slightly, but the flavor will still be great. - Transporting:
Keep them chilled and upright in a cooler if you’re taking them to a party.
They’re a lifesaver when you want a dessert that’s ready to grab and serve.
Final Encouragement (You’re Going to Love These)
These Banana Split Dessert Cups are proof that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. They’re creamy, nostalgic, and just plain happy-looking—exactly the kind of treat that disappears fast and gets people asking for the recipe.
If you’re looking for a no-bake dessert that’s fun, flexible, and totally crowd-pleasing, this is it. Save it for your next gathering, make it with kids, or whip up a batch just because you’re craving something sweet and comforting.
And don’t forget the cherry on top—some traditions are worth keeping. 🍌🍒🍫
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