Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

Name: Banana Split Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium ripe bananas, sliced; 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 box yellow or white cake mix; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping); Additional fruit and nuts for topping

Published: February 7, 2026

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules.
Versatile Flavor: The combination of bananas, pineapple, and strawberries offers a refreshing taste that appeals to everyone.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert serves 12 people, making it great for parties or family gatherings.
Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like chocolate syrup or nuts for a personal touch.
No Special Skills Needed: Anyone can whip up this delightful dump cake without prior baking experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Baking dish (9×13 inches)
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your cake.
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish provides enough space for the cake to rise and cook evenly.
Spatula: Ideal for spreading the whipped topping evenly over the cake for a beautiful finish.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

4 medium ripe bananas, sliced
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus more for topping)
1 box yellow or white cake mix
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping

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 for drizzling

How to Make Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer

In your baking dish:
1. Layer the sliced bananas evenly across the bottom.
2. Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas.
3. Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries on top of the pineapple.

Step 3: Add Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the fruit layers. Ensure it covers everything well.

Step 4: Pour Melted Butter

Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. Try to cover as much surface area as possible to avoid dry spots during baking.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream, additional banana slices, strawberries, and nuts as desired. Drizzle with chocolate syrup if using.

Enjoy your delightful Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe!

How to Serve Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

Serving your Banana Split Dump Cake can elevate the experience for your guests. Here are some fun and delicious serving suggestions to make this dessert even more enjoyable.

Individual Bowls

Scoop generous portions into individual bowls and top with sliced bananas and strawberries for a personal touch.

Party Platter

Serve the cake in a large dish and let guests help themselves. Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup over the top for an extra indulgent look.

Ice Cream Sundae Style

Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each serving. The warm cake combined with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.

Whipped Topping Swirls

Use whipped topping or heavy cream to create beautiful swirls on top of each slice. This adds both flavor and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

To ensure your Banana Split Dump Cake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind.

Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and enhance the flavor of your dump cake.
Don’t skip draining the pineapple: Properly draining the crushed pineapple prevents excess moisture, keeping your cake from becoming soggy.
Layer ingredients thoughtfully: For even baking, layer the sliced fruit evenly across the bottom before adding the cake mix.
Check baking time: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to avoid overbaking.
Let it cool slightly: Allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes after baking lets flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Banana Split Dump Cake can complement its flavors beautifully. Here are some great options to consider.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances the sweet flavors of the cake while adding a healthy touch.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic treats offer a chewy texture that contrasts well with the soft dump cake.
Coconut Macaroons: Their crunchy exterior and chewy center provide a delightful balance alongside your creamy dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream is a perfect accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with banana flavors.
Nutty Trail Mix: Serve this crunchy mix as a side for added texture that complements the softness of the dump cake.
Mini Cheesecakes: These bite-sized desserts are rich and creamy, making them an excellent option to balance out sweetness without overwhelming it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Using Overripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe but not overly soft. Overripe bananas can affect the texture of the cake.
Not Draining Pineapple Properly: If you don’t drain the crushed pineapple, it can make the cake too soggy. Always drain well before adding it to the mix.
Skipping the Butter: The melted butter is crucial for moisture and flavor in this recipe. Don’t skip it or substitute with oil; it may alter the taste.
Ignoring Baking Time: Different ovens may bake unevenly. Keep an eye on your cake and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cook time is up.
Forgetting Toppings: The toppings add to both presentation and taste! Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh fruits, nuts, or drizzle chocolate for that perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Banana Split Dump Cake in an airtight container.
It lasts up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat a single slice on medium power for about 30 seconds or until hot.
Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe.

Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?

Yes! You can substitute with fruits like peaches or blueberries for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cake base.

How do I know when my Banana Split Dump Cake is done?

The cake should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s baked properly.

Can I make this Banana Split Dump Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

You can use gluten-free cake mix as an alternative to make this Banana Split Dump Cake gluten-free without changing much else.

Final Thoughts

The Banana Split Dump Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple. Its versatility allows you to customize with various fruits and toppings according to your preference. Try making this delightful dessert at your next gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card