There are few things that bring out the inner child in us more than a banana split. The best part about enjoying them as an adult? You can make it however you want—no holds barred. We went completely decadent (and classic) with this recipe, with three types of ice cream, homemade fruit syrups, homemade flavored whipped cream, hot fudge, and all the toppings. We love this ultimate version, but feel free to make it however you please! Your banana split, your rules.
The fruit syrups.
We used a simple, easy syrup recipe to create our strawberry and pineapple syrups, but the recipe can be adapted to any fruit. Adding some creative touches, like balsamic vinegar for the strawberry and cinnamon and cayenne for the pineapple, amps up the syrups to give the entire dessert added flavor.
Tip: Just like the hot fudge, you can make the syrups in advance! Make them up to 3 weeks ahead of time, transfer to an airtight container and chill until ready to use.
The ice cream.
We went for the classic here: a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. But again—this is your banana split, make it how you like it! Prefer all of one flavor? Make your sundae a full chocolate (or vanilla, or strawberry) treat. Craving something a bit different? Switch up the ice cream with your favorite flavor, from red velvet to vegan strawberry shortcake to banana.
The toppings.
Along with our fruit syrups and hot fudge, we completed our banana split with homemade banana-flavored whipped cream, rainbow sprinkles, walnuts, and cherries. Not a nut fan? Feel free to leave them off, or replace them with your favorite kind. Add on fresh strawberries or pineapple, chocolate sprinkles, or plain whipped cream if you want to tone down the banana flavor.
If you gave this recipe a try, let us know how your splits came out in the comments below!Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
strawberries, chopped
granulated sugar
balsamic vinegar
water, divided
cornstarch
pineapple, chopped
granulated sugar
fresh lime juice
water, divided
cornstarch
Pinch of ground cinnamon and/or cayenne pepper
plus 2 tbsp granulated sugar
whole milk
Pinch of kosher salt
unsweetened cocoa powder
unsweetened chocolate, chopped
butter, cut into small cubes
heavy cream
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
bananas, divded
scoops vanilla, chocolate, and/or strawberry ice cream
Rainbow sprinkles, chopped walnuts, and maraschino cherries, for serving