Description

Ever dreamed of a dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at? The Homemade Banana Split is a vibrant, indulgent treat that brings together creamy ice cream, fresh fruit, crunchy nuts, and sweet toppings in one delightful dish.

Ingredients

Scale

The Homemade Banana Split uses simple, fresh ingredients to create its iconic look and taste. Here’s what you’ll need for 1 serving:

3 (¼ cup) scoops vanilla ice cream: The creamy base of the dessert.
2 almonds, chopped: Adds a crunchy, nutty texture.
1 fresh strawberry, sliced: Brings a tart, juicy contrast.
1 banana, sliced: The star ingredient, providing sweetness and a soft texture.
3 maraschino cherries: Adds a pop of color and sweet flavor.
2 tablespoons whipped cream (optional): Creates a light, fluffy topping.
2 tablespoons strawberry syrup: Drizzles sweetness and ties the flavors together.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Vanilla Ice Cream: Its neutral flavor lets the toppings shine while providing a creamy base.
Banana: The split banana frames the dessert and adds natural sweetness.
Strawberries and Cherries: Fresh and maraschino cherries bring tartness and sweetness, plus vibrant color.
Nuts and Syrup: Chopped almonds add crunch, while strawberry syrup ties the dessert together with a sweet drizzle.

Substitutions and Variations

Ice Cream: Swap vanilla for chocolate, strawberry, or a mix of flavors for a custom twist.
Nuts: Replace almonds with peanuts, walnuts, pecans, or omit for a nut-free version.
Fruit: Use fresh raspberries, blueberries, or pineapple chunks instead of strawberries.
Syrup: Try chocolate, caramel, or hot fudge instead of strawberry syrup.
Whipped Cream: Make your own (whip ¼ cup heavy cream with 1 teaspoon sugar) or use a dairy-free whipped topping.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free ice cream and vegan whipped topping, and ensure maraschino cherries are vegan-friendly.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather 3 (¼ cup) scoops vanilla ice cream, 1 banana, 1 fresh strawberry, 2 almonds, 3 maraschino cherries, 2 tablespoons whipped cream (optional), and 2 tablespoons strawberry syrup.
Slice the banana lengthwise or into rounds, and slice the strawberry.
Chop 2 almonds coarsely.
Have an oblong dish or banana split boat ready for assembly.

Tip: Chill the dish in the freezer for 5 minutes to keep the ice cream from melting quickly.

Step 2: Arrange the Ice Cream

Place 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream in a row in the oblong dish, spacing them evenly.

Tip: Use an ice cream scoop dipped in warm water for neat, round scoops.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the chopped almonds around the ice cream scoops, distributing evenly.
Arrange the sliced strawberries around the ice cream, tucking them between scoops or along the sides.
Place the sliced banana pieces around the ice cream, either lining the sides of the dish or layering between scoops.

Tip: Arrange toppings symmetrically for a classic banana split look.

Step 4: Garnish with Cherries and Whipped Cream

Place 1 maraschino cherry on top of the first and third ice cream scoops.
Add a dollop of whipped cream (about 2 tablespoons) on the middle ice cream scoop and top with the remaining maraschino cherry.

Tip: Use a piping bag or spoon for neat whipped cream placement.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle 2 tablespoons strawberry syrup over the entire dessert, letting it pool slightly for extra sweetness.
Serve immediately with a spoon and enjoy!

Tip: Serve with extra napkins—this dessert can get deliciously messy!