Typically, a banana split is a classic dessert that features a split banana topped with scoops of ice cream. It’s drizzled with chocolate syrup, strawberry sauce, and pineapple topping, then finished with whipped cream, nuts, and cherries. Because of this, I created a sweet treat that is perfect for any festive occasion.
Potlucks are typically groups where guests bring their favorite food dishes to share with others. This creates a diverse and communal meal. Potlucks produce a sense of togetherness and community that allows everyone to showcase their cooking. From flavorful casseroles to sweet desserts, potlucks offer variety and surprise. They’re perfect for celebrations, as well as creating strong community bonds.
Over the years, I have spent a lot of time thinking about something that would be unique to contribute to our monthly potluck dinners at church. Here’s a perfect recipe that I have made several times that EVERYONE loves!! If you are looking for something that is quick, easy, and tastes wonderful for your next potluck contribution here’s something that I created that has served me well over the years. I have always loved Banana Splits, but they don’t travel well, so I created the perfect alternative for having that wonderful Banana Split without all of the hassle around the mess of melting ice cream.
Many people love Banana Splits, and they are something that has fruit, so they are a little bit healthier than all of the candy that kids get on Easter. These tasty Banana Split Bars will quickly become a favorite. Plus, you get the added bonus of these being super simple, with very little mess.
Easter Sunday is a typical holiday that has a potluck at our church, so I wanted to make something that all of the kids would love, simply because Easter makes kids happy, and I wanted to help contribute to that happiness. Get ready, I know that you will be pleased with the end results. Keep checking back so that we can explore and share new ideas as they are posted.
Banana Split Bar shopping list:
- 2 cans of Croissant roll dough
- 1 box vanilla pudding
- 1 box banana pudding
- 1 container whipped topping
- Bananas
- Strawberries
- 1 can pineapple tidbits
- 1 jar Maraschino Cherries
- Chocolate Syrup
- Mixed Nut Topping
Now, Let’s put it all together:
Let’s start with 2 cans croissant roll dough. Roll them out flat, and place on a flat baking sheet. Poke holes in the dough with a fork, and then bake for 10 minutes @ 350. Set this aside, as it must be completely cooled before placing the toppings.
Second step: Mix 1 package of Vanilla Pudding and 1 package of Banana pudding together until they are set, then add 1 container of whipped topping. Mix them together until well blended. Once you have done this, you can add this mixture to the crust and spread it out evenly.
Next step is the fun part!! Think about what your favorite things about a Banana Split are. Mine are Bananas, Maraschino Cherries, Nuts, Chocolate, Pineapple, & Strawberries. Other things that might be added could include Strawberry Sauce, Blueberries, Blackberries, or Raspberries. Choose your favorites, and create your own unique dessert.
If you choose Pineapple, tidbits work the best, and place them in a colander to drain well while you are putting the rest of your toppings on. Slice your other fruits placing them evenly in layers on top of your pudding mixture. I start with Banana slices, then strawberry slices, then I add the pineapple tidbits. Drain your Maraschino Cherries and place them over the top. Finally, I add chocolate sauce drizzled over the top. I choose to leave the nuts off to the side, because I was worried about nut allergies.
If you are one who likes other fruits on your Banana Splits, you might want to add Blueberries, Grapes, or even Diced Apples to the top. Use your imagination, and try out your favorites at your next potluck or special occasion!!
Here’s a helpful tip that you might want to try. If you are using fruits like bananas or apples, you might want to soak them in a fruit preservative solution to keep them from turning brown before you have a chance to serve them. Additionally, if you need to cover your treat to transport it, place several toothpicks into the dessert, and then wrap with plastic or foil. This will keep the wrapping from sticking to the top of your dessert.
This is an amazing recipe that travels well, and tastes great!!