Banana Split Dump Cake

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Banana Split Dump Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings all the nostalgic flavors of a classic banana split into one warm, comforting bake. With layers of bananas, strawberries, and pineapple topped with buttery cake mix, this dessert delivers big flavor with very little effort.

This banana split dump cake recipe is especially popular for potlucks, family gatherings, and busy weeknights when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a true dump-and-bake dessert that anyone can make.

If you love fruity desserts, retro flavors, and stress-free baking, this easy dump cake is about to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extremely easy and beginner-friendly
• Uses simple, store-bought ingredients
• Perfect for parties, holidays, or last-minute desserts
• Budget-friendly and quick to assemble
• Foolproof recipe with consistent results

About the Ingredients

Bananas

Bananas add natural sweetness and a soft, creamy texture once baked. They bring the classic banana split flavor and pair perfectly with the warm cake topping.

Crushed Pineapple

Crushed pineapple adds juiciness and a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake mix. Draining it prevents the dessert from becoming too soggy.

Strawberries

Fresh strawberries bring brightness and a light tartness that keeps the dessert from tasting overly sweet. They also add beautiful color to the fruit layer.

Cake Mix

Yellow or white cake mix creates a buttery, golden topping with minimal effort. It absorbs the fruit juices while baking and forms a soft, slightly crisp crust.

Butter

Melted butter helps the cake mix bake evenly and adds rich flavor. Drizzling it slowly ensures the topping browns beautifully.

Tips & Tricks

• Slice bananas evenly so they bake at the same rate
• Drain pineapple well to avoid excess liquid
• Spread cake mix evenly without stirring
• Pour butter slowly to cover as much cake mix as possible
• Let the cake rest before serving for cleaner slices

Pro Tips

• Use parchment spray or butter the pan well to prevent sticking
• For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla over the fruit
• Sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking for crunch
• Serve warm for the best texture and aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the sliced bananas evenly across the bottom of the dish, followed by the drained crushed pineapple and sliced strawberries.

Next, sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit without mixing. Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the top, aiming to moisten as much of the cake mix as possible.

Bake until the top is golden and the fruit is bubbling around the edges. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving so the layers set properly.

Variations

• Add chocolate chips for a chocolate banana split twist
• Use cherry pie filling instead of strawberries
• Try pineapple chunks for more texture
• Swap yellow cake mix for vanilla or butter cake
• Make it kid-friendly with colorful sprinkles on top

How to Store

• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing
• Freezing is not recommended due to the fruit texture
• Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warm

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Banana Split Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Do I need to stir the layers?
No, this is a true dump cake—layering without stirring gives the best texture.

Can I use canned strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best, but drained canned strawberries can work in a pinch.

Why is my cake mix still dry in spots?
Drizzle butter slowly and evenly to moisten as much cake mix as possible.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, use two baking dishes and bake them side by side.

Caroline

Banana Split Dump Cake

This easy Banana Split Dump Cake layers ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and fresh strawberries under a buttery cake mix topping for a warm, fruity dessert inspired by the classic banana split.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 medium ripe bananas, sliced
• 20 oz crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 box yellow or white cake mix
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• mixing bowl Optional, for preparing fruit
• measuring cups
• spoon or spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Layer the sliced bananas evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas, then add the sliced strawberries.
4. Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the fruit layers.
5. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or chocolate syrup for a true banana split experience. Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers reheat well for quick treats the next day.

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