Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package of graham crackers (14.4 oz)
- 2 packages of instant vanilla pudding (3.4 oz each)
- 3 cups of cold milk
- 1 container of whipped topping (8 oz)
- 1 can of crushed pineapple (20 oz), drained
- 3 bananas, sliced
- 1 jar of maraschino cherries (10 oz), drained and chopped
- 1 package of chocolate frosting (16 oz)
- 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line the bottom of the baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens.
3. Fold in the whipped topping and crushed pineapple until well combined.
4. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
5. Layer sliced bananas and chopped maraschino cherries over the pudding mixture.
6. Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the fruit.
7. Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
8. Add another layer of sliced bananas and chopped maraschino cherries.
9. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
10. Microwave the chocolate frosting for 30 seconds to soften it.
11. Pour the chocolate frosting over the top layer of graham crackers.
12. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the chocolate frosting.
13. Chill the Banana Split Éclair Cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Temperature:
Refrigerate at 40°F or below.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 12 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 320mg
Total Carbohydrates: 53g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 36g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of graham crackers, you can use vanilla wafers or ladyfingers.
- Instead of instant vanilla pudding mix, you can use chocolate or banana pudding mix.
- Instead of crushed pineapple, you can use fresh or canned sliced peaches.
- Instead of maraschino cherries, you can use fresh strawberries or raspberries.
- Instead of chocolate frosting, you can use caramel or strawberry topping.
Variations:
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Use chocolate graham crackers instead of regular graham crackers for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Add a layer of chopped peanuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple and maraschino cherries well to prevent the cake from becoming too soggy.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the bananas thinly and evenly.
- Microwave the chocolate frosting in 30-second intervals to prevent it from burning.
- Let the cake chill for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Storage instructions:
Store the Banana Split Éclair Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
This cake is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Banana Split Éclair Cake on a platter or cake stand. Garnish with additional sliced bananas, maraschino cherries, and chopped walnuts.
Garnishes:
- Sliced bananas
- Maraschino cherries
- Chopped walnuts
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
This cake pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Suggested side dishes:
This cake is a dessert and does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake becomes too soggy, try using less pudding mixture or draining the fruit more thoroughly.
- If the chocolate frosting is too thick, microwave it for a few more seconds until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the Banana Split Éclair Cake in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers after 3 days.
Food history:
The Banana Split Éclair Cake is a modern twist on the classic banana split dessert. The first banana split was created in 1904 by a pharmacist in Pennsylvania who wanted to attract more customers to his soda fountain. The dessert consisted of a split banana, three scoops of ice cream, and various toppings. The Banana Split Éclair Cake combines the flavors of a banana split with the texture of an éclair.
Flavor profiles:
The Banana Split Éclair Cake is a sweet and creamy dessert with a fruity and nutty flavor. The graham crackers provide a crunchy texture, while the chocolate frosting adds a rich and indulgent taste.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Banana Split Éclair Cake as a dessert at a summer barbecue or potluck. It is also a great dessert for birthdays or other special occasions.
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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Fruity, Banana, Chocolaty, Banana-Flavored