Ingredients:
For the Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Banana Split Toppings:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pineapple
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate sauce and whipped cream for garnish
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Directions:
For the Cake Layers:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Smooth tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined and smooth.
- Pour mixture into prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cheesecake is set and slightly golden around the edges. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate until ready to use.
For Assembling the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a layer of frosting over the cake layer.
- Carefully place the cheesecake layer on top of the frosted cake layer.
- Arrange sliced bananas, chopped strawberries, pineapple, and nuts over the cheesecake layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top and decorate with dollops of whipped cream, additional fruit, and nuts.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: Makes 12-16 slices