If you’re looking for a dessert that brings pure joy to the table, look no further than this Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake. It’s a whimsical, fruity, and creamy treat that channels all the magic of a banana split—no oven required! With pastel swirls, pops of fresh fruit, and sprinkle confetti, every slice is a party. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving something fun and fabulous, this dessert is guaranteed to make you (and your guests) smile.

Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about the Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Each component has a special role, from the crunchy base to the luscious layers and cheerful finishing touches. Here’s what you’ll need and why you definitely don’t want to skip any of them:

Crushed graham crackers: These make the buttery, golden crust that holds everything together and adds a satisfying crunch.
Unsalted butter, melted: Blends with the crumbs to create a rich, sturdy base with just the right amount of decadence.
Cream cheese, softened: The secret to that tangy, velvety filling that’s the heart of this cake.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese and balances out the fruit’s natural tartness.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds a subtle, fragrant note.
Whipped topping, thawed: Makes the filling extra light and dreamy—plus it’s perfect for that fluffy finishing layer.
Sliced fresh strawberries: Juicy, colorful, and bursting with real strawberry flavor in every bite.
Ripe bananas, sliced: Bring classic banana split vibes and a creamy texture you can’t miss.
Crushed pineapple, well drained: Adds a tropical zing and a lovely juicy layer without making things soggy.
Pastel rainbow sprinkles: Instantly make the cake look magical and festive—don’t be shy with these!
Pink, purple, and blue food coloring (optional): For those iconic unicorn swirls that make each slice totally Instagram-worthy.
Maraschino cherries and more whipped topping for garnish (optional): The classic cherry on top (literally) and a cloud of extra creaminess for serving.

How to Make Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake

Step 1: Build the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Start by combining your crushed graham crackers with the melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until every crumb is coated and the mixture looks like wet sand—this will ensure your crust holds together perfectly. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use the back of a spoon or your fingertips to really pack it in. This foundation is the stage for all the magical layers to come.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy, Dreamy Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This is where you want to get rid of any lumps for that silky cheesecake texture. Gently fold in the whipped topping so you keep everything light and airy.

Step 3: Create the Unicorn Swirl (Optional but Fun!)

If you want to embrace the full unicorn magic of the Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake, divide the creamy filling into three bowls. Add a drop or two of pink, purple, and blue food coloring to each bowl, stirring just until you get soft, pastel shades. Drop spoonfuls of each color over the crust, then use a knife or skewer to gently swirl them together. Don’t overmix—you want that dreamy, marbled look!

Step 4: Layer on the Fruit

Now it’s time for the fruity fun! Arrange the banana slices in an even layer over the creamy filling, followed by the well-drained crushed pineapple, and then the juicy sliced strawberries. Each fruit brings its own color and flavor, making every bite a little different and a whole lot delicious.

Step 5: Add the Whipped Topping Fluff

Spread a gentle layer of whipped topping over the fruit. This not only adds a fluffy finish but also helps hold the sprinkles in place and gives you that classic banana split look. If you love extra creaminess, don’t be shy—pile it on!

Step 6: Sprinkle the Magic and Chill

Shower the cake with pastel rainbow sprinkles for a true unicorn effect. Then, cover and chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). This allows all the flavors to meld and the layers to set up beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, add maraschino cherries and a little more whipped topping if you’d like. Each slice will look like a party—totally worthy of its Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake name!

How to Serve Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake

Garnishes

You can never go wrong with a generous swirl of whipped topping and a bright maraschino cherry perched on top. A dusting of extra sprinkles or a sprinkle of edible glitter brings out even more unicorn magic. If you’re feeling extra creative, add a few thin slices of fresh strawberry or edible flowers for a whimsical touch.

Side Dishes

This cake is definitely the star of the show, but if you want to round out your dessert spread, think light and simple. A bowl of mixed berries or a scoop of rainbow sherbet pairs beautifully without stealing the spotlight. For a party, serve with mini fruit skewers or colorful lemonade.

Creative Ways to Present

Try making individual Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake parfaits in mason jars for a grab-and-go treat at parties. For an extra-festive celebration, use unicorn-themed plates and napkins, or top each slice with a tiny paper unicorn horn. If you want to wow your guests, use edible glitter or pastel-hued candies for even more sparkle and shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days, though the crust may soften a bit over time as it absorbs moisture from the fruit and filling.

Freezing

You can freeze the Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake, but the texture of the fruit and whipped layers may change slightly once thawed. If you do freeze it, wrap slices individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

No reheating required for this cool and creamy dessert! In fact, it’s best enjoyed straight from the fridge. If it’s been frozen, just let it thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight before serving so the layers stay intact and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this cake is perfect for making a day ahead. The flavors blend together even more beautifully after chilling overnight, and it gives the filling plenty of time to set.

What if I don’t have food coloring?

No worries! The cake is just as delicious and still gorgeous without the pastel swirls. The fresh fruit and sprinkles bring plenty of color and fun all on their own.

Can I substitute other fruits?

Yes! Feel free to swap in other favorites like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches. Just be sure to drain any canned fruit well to keep the layers from getting too soggy.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Of course! Simply use your favorite gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs to create the crust. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

To keep the bananas looking their best, slice them just before assembling the cake and layer them between the filling and the pineapple. The cream cheese and pineapple layers help slow down browning, especially if the cake is chilled promptly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat, the Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake is your answer. Every creamy, colorful bite is pure happiness. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and let the magic unfold in your own kitchen!

Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake is a whimsical and colorful dessert perfect for summer parties and special occasions. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy pastel swirled cheesecake filling, and layers of fresh bananas, crushed pineapple, and strawberries, this no-bake cake is topped with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles for a magical banana split-inspired treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

2 cups crushed graham crackers
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Pink, purple, and blue food coloring (optional)

Fruit Layer

1 1/2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained

Garnish

Pastel rainbow sprinkles
Maraschino cherries (optional)
Additional whipped topping (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust base.
Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated to create a creamy filling.
Color the filling (optional): For a whimsical unicorn swirl effect, divide the cream cheese filling into three separate bowls. Tint each portion with a different pastel food coloring—pink, purple, and blue. Drop spoonfuls of these colored mixtures over the crust and use a knife to gently swirl them together, creating a marbled look.
Layer the fruit: Evenly arrange the sliced bananas over the cream cheese filling. Next, layer the well-drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas, followed by the fresh sliced strawberries.
Add the whipped topping and sprinkles: Spread a thin layer of whipped topping over the fruit layer. Generously sprinkle pastel rainbow sprinkles over the top to enhance the festive appearance.
Chill and set: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to properly set and flavors to meld.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally decorate with maraschino cherries and additional whipped topping for an extra indulgent presentation.

Notes

For a firmer crust, bake the graham cracker crust at 350°F for 8 minutes and then allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
Use rainbow sherbet tones or edible glitter for extra whimsical unicorn theme enhancements.
Best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American