This Tropical Strawberry Split Cake is a refreshing and indulgent dessert that combines layers of creamy goodness with fresh, vibrant fruits. With its crunchy graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese layer, and luscious vanilla pudding topped with tropical fruits like pineapple, bananas, and strawberries, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 package (14.4 oz) of graham crackers
- 1/2 cup of butter, melted
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
- 1 container (8 oz) of Cool Whip
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) of instant vanilla pudding
- 3 cups of milk
- 1 can (20 oz) of crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 quart of fresh strawberries, sliced
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush the graham crackers and mix them with the melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan to form a solid crust.
- Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, cream cheese, and half of the Cool Whip. Spread this mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until it thickens. Once thickened, spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Fruit Layer: Add a layer of crushed pineapple, followed by the sliced bananas and sliced strawberries, evenly spreading them over the pudding layer.
- Cool Whip Layer: Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the fruit layer, smoothing it out for a clean top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to allow all the layers to set.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Choices: Swap the strawberries, bananas, and pineapple with other tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, or peaches to give it a different twist.
- Crust Options: Use a store-bought graham cracker crust, or make it gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers or a different crust alternative like crushed nuts or coconut.
- Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, on top of the Cool Whip layer.
- Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the pudding layer or drizzle some chocolate syrup over the fruit for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This cake can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, feel free to use any fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches to customize the flavor. - Can I use regular whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be substituted for Cool Whip if you prefer a fresher option. - Do I need to bake this cake?
No, this is a no-bake dessert, making it quick and easy to prepare. - How do I know when it’s ready to serve?
Make sure the cake is refrigerated for at least 4 hours to allow it to set. The layers should firm up and hold their shape when served. - Can I use sugar-free pudding?
Yes, you can use sugar-free vanilla pudding if you want to make this dessert lower in sugar. - What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch pan?
You can use a smaller or larger pan, but adjust the layers accordingly to ensure the right proportions. - Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be prepared the day before and left to chill overnight. - How long can this cake sit out at room temperature?
For food safety, it’s best not to leave this dessert out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. - Can I add chocolate to the dessert?
Yes, you can add chocolate chips or drizzle chocolate syrup on top of the Cool Whip layer for extra richness. - What can I serve with this cake?
This cake is delicious on its own but pairs well with a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Tropical Strawberry Split Cake is a perfect no-bake dessert for warm weather, combining a creamy, fruity filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust. With layers of pudding, fruit, and Cool Whip, it’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, gathering, or just a sweet treat at home, this dessert is easy to make and always a hit!