Craving something that’s both refreshing and indulgent? This no-fuss dessert is a mash-up of your favorite childhood ice cream treat and rich, fudgy brownies. With layers of bananas, strawberries, pudding, whipped topping, and chocolate, it’s basically a banana split on a brownie base — no scoops needed. Perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or whenever you’re in the mood for a cool slice of happiness. Just a warning: you’ll need napkins and maybe a second helping!
This easy-to-assemble dessert hits all the right notes — fruity, creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey. And with strawberries and bananas involved… we say it counts as getting your daily fruit intake. Win-win.
Ingredients For Banana Split Brownie Icebox Cake
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1 box brownie mix (13×9 family size), plus oil and eggs as instructed on the package
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1 box instant vanilla pudding (3.4 oz / 100 g), plus milk per box directions
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1 qt fresh strawberries (approx. 4 cups / 600 g)
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1/2 bag walnuts (about 1 cup / 120 g)
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4–5 large bananas
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1 large container whipped topping, 8 oz (225 g)
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Chocolate syrup for drizzling (as desired)
How To Make Banana Split Brownie Icebox Cake
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Prepare the brownie mix according to the instructions on the box and bake in a 13×9 inch (33×23 cm) pan. For an extra chewy texture, bake slightly under the recommended time. Let brownies cool completely.
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While brownies are cooling, make the vanilla pudding according to the directions on the box and place in the fridge to set.
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Once the brownies have cooled, slice bananas and arrange them in a single, even layer over the top of the brownie base.
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Spread the chilled vanilla pudding over the banana layer, covering it completely.
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Gently spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer using a spatula or spoon.
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Slice strawberries into chunks or slices and scatter them generously over the top of the whipped layer. (Bigger pieces = more berry in every bite!)
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Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly over the strawberries to add some crunch and nutty flavor.
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If you’re feeling extra chocolatey, drizzle a layer of chocolate syrup over the top just before serving.
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Chill the cake in the refrigerator for several hours before slicing to allow layers to set. Store leftovers (if there are any!) covered in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This layered brownie icebox cake is the kind of dessert that sneaks up on you — light and fruity at first, but deeply satisfying thanks to its rich brownie base and creamy layers. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or casual nights when you want something spectacular without turning on the oven for too long.
Whether you’re a fruit fanatic or a chocolate lover, this recipe unites the best of both worlds. Get ready to be the person everyone asks for the recipe from — and don’t say we didn’t warn you!
