How to Make a Classic Banana Split: A Step Back in Time

The banana split has been a beloved dessert served in diners and ice cream parlors since its creation in 1904 by David Strickler, a pharmacist in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. While modern banana splits often feature an array of creative toppings, such as M&Ms and gummy worms, and flavors like cookie dough and moose tracks, the classic banana split follows a traditional recipe that is simple and elegant.

Ingredients for a Classic Banana Split

To create a truly classic banana split, you’ll need the following:

• 1 ripe banana, peeled and split lengthwise
• 1 scoop each of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream
• Chocolate syrup
• Pineapple topping
• Strawberry topping
• Whipped cream
• Maraschino cherries
• Crushed nuts (optional, typically walnuts)

Instructions for Making a Classic Banana Split

1. Prepare the Banana: Peel and slice a ripe banana lengthwise. Place the two halves in a long, shallow dish.
2. Add Ice Cream: Arrange one scoop each of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream between the banana halves.
3. Add Toppings:
   • Drizzle chocolate syrup over the chocolate ice cream.
   • Spoon strawberry topping over the strawberry ice cream.
   • Add pineapple topping to the vanilla ice cream.
4. Finish with Garnishes: Top each scoop of ice cream with a dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle crushed nuts over the entire dessert, if desired, and place a maraschino cherry on top of each whipped cream peak.

Modern Twists on the Banana Split

While the classic banana split sticks to the original recipe, today’s variations often stray from tradition, incorporating unique ingredients and techniques:

• Ice Cream Flavors: Modern versions might feature exotic flavors like salted caramel, cookie dough, or mango sorbet.
• Toppings: Gourmet toppings such as hot fudge, caramel, peanut butter sauce, or fresh fruit are common.
• Presentation: Some contemporary banana splits are served in waffle bowls, mason jars, or even deconstructed on a plate.
• Dietary Alternatives: Non-dairy ice creams, gluten-free toppings, and sugar-free syrups cater to dietary preferences.

Conclusion

The classic banana split is a timeless dessert that brings back fond memories for folks of a certain age. While modern adaptations offer exciting innovations, the original version is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. The next time you crave a banana split, try the classic recipe and experience a sweet slice of culinary history.

Thanks for stoppin’ by!

Anne James

Anne James—also known as Jelly Grandma—is a professional canner and lifelong food preserver with over 55 years of hands-on experience. A retired librarian, paralegal, and self-taught expert in traditional Southern crafts, Anne specializes in canning, jelly-making, cooking, gardening, and quilting. She even has extensive experience as a bartender.
She’s been featured in the Daily Commercial and on Hershey’s website, and is lovingly known as the “go-to canner” in her family and beyond. Her mission is simple: to preserve and pass on the old ways—skills that kept generations thriving without shortcuts or preservatives.
You can find more of Anne’s work at PreservingSweetness.com, on YouTube, and occasionally on SurvivalFreedom.com.