Ingredients

Scale

Crust Layer

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)

Substitutions:
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. For a low-sugar version, omit the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute.

Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Substitutions:
Neufchâtel cheese (1/3 less fat) works well instead of cream cheese for a lighter version. You can also use Greek yogurt whipped with cream for a tangy alternative.

Fruit & Chocolate Layers

2 ripe bananas, sliced
½ cup chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce
¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Optional Additions:
Crushed pineapple, strawberry jam, or fresh sliced strawberries can be added between layers for a more traditional banana split profile.

Toppings

½ cup crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs
Maraschino cherries (1 per cup)
Optional: chopped nuts (walnuts or peanuts), sprinkles, or whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each small glass or dessert cup. Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to press down firmly. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually beat the powdered sugar and vanilla into the whipped cream. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Layer the Dessert Cups

On top of the graham cracker base, spoon a thin layer of chocolate syrup. Add a few banana slices, followed by a layer of the cheesecake filling. Continue layering: more bananas, a drizzle of caramel, and more cheesecake mixture.

Step 4: Finish with Toppings

Top each cup with crushed graham crackers, a generous drizzle of both chocolate and caramel sauce, banana slices, and a maraschino cherry. Add nuts or whipped cream if desired.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set slightly. These can be made up to 24 hours in advance.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 380
Sugar: 26g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg