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If your kids are anything like mine, they love fruit and really love ice cream. Yet ice cream and I don’t really get along‚ I get the gurgles. So I’ve leaned into the non-dairy ice creams and feel so much better. Now, when I want a dessert that feels fun and indulgent—but was also something I felt good serving on a regular basis—I make this: the Vegan Banana Split. And let me tell you, it’s been a hit ever since!
This dessert recipe is a fresh, plant-based spin on the classic sundae—made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand. We’re talking a banana, a scoop (or three!) of creamy vegan ice cream, sweet strawberries, juicy blueberries, and the kind of toppings that make your kids feel like they’ve just been handed a dessert from their favorite ice cream shop.
Why You’ll Love It (and So Will Your Kids)
If your kiddos love fruit and ice cream as much as mine do, this recipe is an absolute must-try. Whip it up on a weekday, turn it into a weekend tradition, or surprise them with a special after-school treat. However you serve it, I hope it becomes a favorite in your house, too.
- No added guilt: It’s fruit-forward, dairy-free, and made with plant-based goodness.
- 5-minute prep: Because no parent has time for complicated dessert recipes.
- Customizable: Let your kids sprinkle on their own toppings—cacao nibs, cinnamon, a drizzle of vegan chocolate or caramel sauce, or even a dollop of whipped coconut cream.
- Nostalgic for you, exciting for them: It’s a classic reimagined in the healthiest (and still delicious!) way possible. I grew up eating this with my parents— yet I def used sprinkles and Hershey’s syrup. Child of the 80’s all the way!
Ingredient to Make Vegan Banana Split
Let your kids help build their banana split—this is where it gets fun! Slice the banana lengthwise, scoop the ice cream into the middle, top with berries, and let them sprinkle and swirl to their heart’s content. My tip? Keep a variety of toppings on hand and let them make it their own. Here’s some suggestions:
- Banana: Look for a ripe but firm banana—you want it sweet and spotty, but not too soft or mushy since it will be the base of your sundae. Bananas with a few brown speckles are perfect. Organic is great if available, especially since the peel is removed.
- Vegan Ice Cream: There are so many great options out there – I looooove Jeni’s Dairy-Free line. Go classic with vanilla, or get playful with Texas Sheet Cake (it’s amazing!) chocolate, strawberry, or even cookie dough.
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Pro Tip
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own banana “nice cream” with frozen bananas blended until creamy—zero added sugar and 100% fun! You can try my banana nice cream recipe (it’s super simple).
- Strawberries and Blueberries: Buy fresh, in-season berries when you can for the best flavor and texture. If strawberries aren’t available, raspberries or chopped cherries work well too. Frozen berries can be used in a pinch, but thaw and pat them dry so they don’t make your dessert watery.
Look for firm, brightly colored berries with no signs of bruising or mold. Organic is a good option for berries, which tend to be more pesticide-sensitive. - Cacao Nibs: These crunchy bits of pure cacao add texture and a little chocolatey bite without any added sugar. You’ll find them in the baking or health food aisle at most grocery stores. A small bag goes a long way and they’re great for smoothie bowls too. You can also use basic chocolate chips too. Swap for mini vegan chocolate chips if your kids aren’t into the crunch of cacao nibs.
- Ground Cinnamon: Okay, this is def for the adults in the house. Cinnamon adds a warm, comforting touch and pairs beautifully with bananas and berries. A light dusting is all you need to elevate this banana split!
Kid-Friendly Vegan Desserts
This Vegan Banana Split has become a go-to dessert in our home—not just because it’s quick and easy, but because it’s one of those magical recipes where healthy meets fun. It satisfies the sweet tooth, fuels them with real food, and brings a smile to their faces every time.
Vegan Banana Split
Jen HansardIngredients
- 1 banana
- 3 scoops vegan ice cream
- ½ cup strawberries diced
- ½ cup blueberries
- cacao nibs for sprinkling
- ground cinnamon ground, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Peel the banana and halve it lengthwise. Arrange the halves in a shallow serving bowl or sundae dish so they open like a book.
- Place the scoops of ice cream down the center of the banana.
- Top with the strawberries and blueberries, sprinkle with cacao nibs and cinnamon and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
- Ripeness Tip: Use a ripe banana with a few brown spots for the sweetest flavor, but make sure it’s firm enough to hold its shape when halved.
- Fruit Swaps: Sliced mango, pineapple, cherries or any fresh berries can replace the strawberries and blueberries.
- Toppings: Add coconut whipped cream, a berry compote or a fudgy chocolate sauce. Chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes add crunch.
- Storing: Best served right after assembling, since the ice cream melts and the banana browns. Keep extra cut berries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
I made this two years ago. I used Greek yogurt on mine.
Yum! I bet it turned out amazing, Darlene!
Oh my gosh! Y’all I have not had a banana split since I was a kid and this brought me back. I call this the adult version of a banana split. So yummy
So happy you tried it, Kristen.