Southern Style Banana Split is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience! This cake combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas, creamy frosting, and the indulgent sweetness of whipped cream. As a Southern dessert, it brings a unique twist to the classic banana split, presenting a moist cake layered with banana goodness and topped with all your favorite ingredients. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to charm anyone who takes a bite!
Why You’ll Love This Southern Style Banana Split
This Southern Style Banana Split cake is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Here are a few reasons to love it:
- Deliciously moist cake that’s easy to make
- Great for any gathering or celebration
- Combines the beloved flavors of a banana split
- Can be customized with unique toppings
- Suitable for vegetarians (Diet: Vegetarian)
- Perfect for those who love Southern desserts
With its unique Southern flair, this cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser and a must-try for dessert lovers!
Ingredients for Southern Style Banana Split
Gather these items:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- Maraschino cherries for topping
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
- Additional sliced bananas for garnish
How to Make Southern Style Banana Split Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Step 5: If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Step 6: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Step 7: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 8: Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Step 9: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- Step 10: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Step 11: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Step 12: Decorate the top with sliced bananas, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and top with maraschino cherries.
Pro Tips for the Best Southern Style Banana Split
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
Best Ways to Serve Southern Style Banana Split
This cake can be served at parties, picnics, or family gatherings. Pair it with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. You can also create a Southern banana split sundae by adding a scoop of ice cream on top and drizzling chocolate syrup.

How to Store and Reheat Southern Style Banana Split
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 10 seconds or enjoy it cold. This cake is perfect for meal prep as it can easily be made ahead of time!
Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Style Banana Split
What’s the secret to perfect Southern Style Banana Split?
The key is using ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the cake airy and light.
Can I make Southern Style Banana Split ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Style Banana Split?
Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and not to skip the cooling time before frosting. This ensures your cake will set properly.
Variations of Southern Style Banana Split You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with unique toppings such as caramel sauce, crushed nuts, or even a sprinkle of coconut. You could also try a different frosting flavor like chocolate or peanut butter to give it a new twist!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake or Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. If you’re looking for a great party dish, try our Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast.
Additionally, for tips on using bananas in baking, you can refer to this Healthline article on the benefits of bananas.
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Southern Style Banana Split Cake: A Sweet Delight
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern Style Banana Split Cake is a delicious dessert that combines the flavors of banana, cream cheese, and whipped cream in a moist cake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- Maraschino cherries for topping
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling
- Additional sliced bananas for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate the top with sliced bananas, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and top with maraschino cherries.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Southern Style Banana Split, Banana Split Cake, Southern Dessert