There’s something timeless about a banana split. When I was raising my twin boys in Santa Barbara, banana split ice cream became our sweet reward for getting through a long week. It started as a Friday night treat—just something fun and a little over-the-top. But before long, it turned into a tradition. I’d slice bananas, scoop whatever ice cream we had on hand, and let the boys top it with chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and maybe some crushed peanuts. The first time I made an actual banana split ice cream from scratch, I felt like a magician. And now, this playful, nostalgic dessert has become a staple in our kitchen—both for its flavors and the memories it brings.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make the best banana split ice cream at home, how it differs from other banana-based treats, and answer some common questions. You’ll also find tips to elevate the flavor and presentation, and discover variations that make this dish adaptable and exciting.
Table of Contents
The Flavor-Packed Legacy of Banana Split Ice Cream
What is banana split ice cream?
Banana split ice cream is more than just a frozen dessert—it’s a tribute to the classic banana split sundae. Traditionally, a banana split features a banana sliced lengthwise with scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, topped with chocolate syrup, crushed pineapple, whipped cream, cherries, and nuts. Banana split ice cream brings all those elements together into one creamy, scoopable experience.
The base often includes real bananas blended into the custard or cream mixture, giving it a sweet, fruity foundation. Mix-ins like fudge swirls, strawberry ribbons, and crushed cherries mimic sundae toppings, while some versions add crunchy nuts or cookie bits for texture. It’s a celebration of flavor and nostalgia in one bite.
You can take a cue from this chocolate and vanilla ice cream recipe to create base flavors or explore even richer depths with a homemade chocolate ice cream recipe as part of your banana split profile.
The origin and evolution of a dessert icon
The banana split was born in 1904 in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, thanks to a pharmacist named David Strickler. He wanted to attract college students to his soda fountain with something exciting—and the banana split delivered. The dish quickly became a hit, traveling coast to coast and evolving through the decades.
As ice cream making at home gained popularity, the idea of blending a banana split’s components into a single ice cream flavor emerged. It’s now a fan-favorite among nostalgic eaters and a great way to combine the best parts of a sundae into one no-mess scoop.
Banana Split Ice Cream: Ultimate Guide to a Classic Frozen Treat
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk together the milk, sugar, and vanilla until the sugar dissolves.
- Stir in the cream and banana purée until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn until soft-serve consistency.
- Fold in strawberries, cherries, fudge, and any additional toppings.
- Transfer to a container and freeze for 4–6 hours before scooping.
- For no-churn, follow the same prep, pour into a container, and stir vigorously every 30 minutes for 2–3 hours.
- Let sit out 5–10 minutes before scooping for best texture.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Customizing Banana Split Ice Cream at Home
Classic combinations with a modern twist
Making banana split ice cream from scratch opens up endless possibilities. You’re not limited to the traditional trio of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate—though that combination remains a beloved favorite. By layering your own base flavors, you can dial up the indulgence or balance the sweetness to your taste.
For example, try swirling in strawberry jam or fresh fruit compote instead of artificial flavoring. Add a dark chocolate ganache ripple for a rich contrast to the banana’s natural sweetness. A peanut butter swirl also works beautifully and adds a salty counterpoint. Want some crunch? Crushed waffle cones, toasted pecans, or chocolate-covered almonds work great.
A simple way to personalize your batch is by following steps from this chocolate milkshake recipe with ice cream, which balances creamy texture with bold flavor. Drawing inspiration from milkshake ideas helps reimagine how mix-ins can layer into your homemade blend.
Dairy-free and diet-friendly variations
Banana split ice cream is wonderfully adaptable. If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut milk or almond milk bases work well and still provide that silky finish. Bananas themselves create creaminess, which is why you’ll find banana-based “nice cream” all over healthy dessert menus.
To keep the sugar down, swap in chopped dates for caramel tones or use monk fruit sweetener. You can skip the whipped cream but still enjoy the textures by folding in shredded coconut or cacao nibs. Frozen berries offer bursts of flavor and color, keeping your ice cream both nutritious and visually appealing.
Those who’ve loved our banana cream cake or a banana chocolate milkshake without ice cream will feel right at home transforming these ingredients into something spoonable and crave-worthy.
How to Make Banana Split Ice Cream from Scratch
Ingredients you need to get started
To make banana split ice cream at home, you’ll want to gather ingredients that echo the sundae experience. Here’s a basic ingredient list for one batch:
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed or puréed)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped strawberries
- ½ cup fudge sauce or chocolate syrup
- ¼ cup chopped cherries
- Optional: crushed pineapple, chopped nuts, or cookie bits
Using fresh bananas provides natural sweetness and that signature banana aroma. Avoid overripe ones—they can overpower the flavor. This recipe can be churned in an ice cream maker or frozen in a loaf pan and stirred every 30 minutes for a no-churn version.
Your method can mirror techniques used in recipes like this ice cream cake roll, where maintaining structure and layering flavors is key. Texture is everything in banana split ice cream—aim for a balance between smooth base and textured mix-ins.
Step-by-step tips for perfect results
- Whisk together the milk, sugar, and vanilla until the sugar dissolves.
- Stir in the cream and banana purée until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn until soft-serve consistency.
- Fold in strawberries, cherries, fudge, and any additional toppings.
- Transfer to a container and freeze for 4–6 hours before scooping.
If going no-churn, follow the same prep, pour into a container, and stir vigorously every 30 minutes for 2–3 hours.
Don’t forget to let it sit out for a few minutes before serving—this ensures a soft scoop without frostbite. For something fruity on the side, consider pairing with black raspberry ice cream to double down on nostalgic vibes.
For more fun variations and ideas, check out our Facebook and Pinterset sections where creativity meets craving.
Serving and Storing Banana Split Ice Cream
Creative serving ideas for any occasion
Banana split ice cream doesn’t need much to impress, but how you serve it can turn a simple dessert into a showstopper. The classic way is in a long dish with a sliced banana on each side, a scoop in the middle, and all your favorite toppings—whipped cream, cherries, sprinkles.
But you can also get playful. Try scooping it into waffle bowls or layering it in a glass like a sundae parfait. Crushed cookies or graham cracker crumbs on top add crunch and flair. Hosting a gathering? Make mini ice cream sandwiches using chocolate chip cookies and a small scoop in the center.
If you love dramatic desserts like this chocolate brownie ice cream cake recipe, you’ll find banana split ice cream just as versatile for creative spins. Add a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce before serving or even torch a marshmallow topping for s’mores-inspired flair.
Smart storage for long-lasting freshness
Once your banana split ice cream is ready, store it in a shallow, airtight container. Cover the surface with parchment or plastic wrap before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming. This helps preserve the creamy texture and flavor.
Homemade ice cream tastes best within 2 weeks, though it can keep longer if stored properly. Always allow the container to rest on the counter for about 5–10 minutes before scooping—it softens the ice cream just enough without melting it.
If you made several flavor versions, label each one clearly. You might end up with crowd-pleasers like banana fudge or cherry swirl you’ll want to recreate later. Bonus tip: freeze individual portions for quick treats, just like store-bought pints but better!
FAQs About Banana Split Ice Cream
What is banana split ice cream?
Banana split ice cream is a fun twist on the classic banana split dessert. It combines the main elements—bananas, vanilla or chocolate base, cherries, strawberries, and fudge—into one creamy, scoopable treat. It’s like having a sundae in every bite, without the need to assemble multiple ingredients.
Does Dairy Queen do banana splits?
Yes, Dairy Queen has traditionally offered banana splits as part of their treat menu. It includes a fresh banana with vanilla soft serve and toppings like strawberry, pineapple, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry. However, availability can vary by location.
Does Tillamook make banana split ice cream?
Tillamook once offered a banana split flavor, but it’s not always available year-round. It typically includes banana ice cream with strawberry and fudge swirls, mimicking the sundae’s taste. Check their official website or stores for seasonal offerings.
What’s the difference between a banana split and a banana royale?
A banana split uses a whole banana sliced lengthwise and typically three scoops of ice cream with various toppings. A banana royale, often smaller, uses sliced banana rounds and usually one or two scoops with fewer toppings. It’s a simpler version but just as tasty!
Conclusion
Banana split ice cream is more than a dessert—it’s a throwback to childhood joy and the simple pleasure of sharing something sweet. Whether you go all in with toppings or keep it minimal, this flavor-packed treat has a way of turning any moment into something special. With its customizability, fun serving options, and nostalgic charm, banana split ice cream deserves a permanent spot in your freezer.
If you love the creativity of making your own frozen treats, you’ll find more inspiration in our chocolate and vanilla ice cream and banana chocolate milkshake recipes too.