Name: Banana Caramel Cream Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping; 4 oz cream cheese or 1 cup vanilla pudding (optional); 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies; 1/4 cup melted butter; 2 tbsp powdered sugar (if making whipped cream from scratch); 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); Pinch of sea salt (optional, for salted caramel variation)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures. It’s incredibly simple to make, requires no baking, and can be prepared ahead of time. The layers of fresh bananas and caramel provide a rich flavor that’s balanced by the lightness of whipped cream. Whether served in a large dish or as individual cups, it’s guaranteed to please any crowd.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe bananas
Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Whipped cream or whipped topping
Cream cheese or vanilla pudding (optional for added richness)
Graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies (like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers)
Melted butter
Powdered sugar (if making whipped cream from scratch)
Vanilla extract (optional)
Sea salt (optional, for salted caramel variation)

Directions

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture into the base of a serving dish or dessert cups to form the crust. Chill for 10–15 minutes to set.
Slice the bananas and set aside.
If using cream cheese or pudding, beat with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
Layer the crust with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce.
Add a layer of banana slices over the caramel.
Spread or pipe whipped cream (or the cream cheese mixture) over the bananas.
Repeat layers if desired: caramel, bananas, cream.
Finish with a final drizzle of caramel and optional sprinkle of sea salt.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6–8 servings, depending on portion size.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour (minimum)
Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Serves: 6–8

Variations

Banoffee style: Add a layer of toffee or dulce de leche instead of caramel for a richer version.
Chocolate twist: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or add chocolate shavings between layers.
Nutty version: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Individual servings: Assemble in small jars or glasses for an elegant presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days.
This dessert is not suitable for freezing, as the bananas can become mushy and the cream can separate.
No reheating is necessary; serve chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a few hours in advance so the flavors can meld and the layers can set.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

Lightly coat the banana slices with lemon juice before layering to slow down oxidation.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, whipped topping like Cool Whip works well and makes assembly quicker.

What kind of caramel sauce should I use?

Any thick, rich caramel sauce works—homemade or store-bought. Salted caramel also adds great depth of flavor.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free whipped topping and caramel, and substitute plant-based butter for the crust.

What’s the best type of cookie for the crust?

Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even gingersnaps work well.

Can I use instant pudding instead of cream cheese?

Yes, instant vanilla or banana pudding makes a great creamy layer that complements the other flavors.

How long does it need to chill?

At least 1 hour, but chilling for 3–4 hours or overnight will give the best texture and flavor.

Can I make it in a trifle dish?

Absolutely, it looks beautiful in a clear glass trifle dish with visible layers.

What if I don’t like bananas?

You can substitute with sliced strawberries or apples, though it will change the overall flavor profile.

Conclusion

Banana Caramel Cream Dessert is a dream come true for lovers of no-bake treats. It’s quick, customizable, and absolutely delicious, with layers that melt together into the perfect spoonful. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or satisfying a weeknight craving, this creamy, caramel-loaded dessert is always a winning choice.