Banana Split Cupcakes Recipe | Easy Box Mix Cupcakes
Banana Split Cupcakes
These banana split cupcakes are such a fun treat. You would never guess they start with a box cake mix because the flavors come together in the best way. Each cupcake has a slice of fresh banana baked inside, then you decorate them with whipped cream, toasted coconut, and a cherry. They disappear fast and everyone always wants seconds.
This recipe makes about 18 cupcakes. Be sure to decorate them right before serving so the whipped cream stays fluffy.
A Fun Way to Upgrade a Box Cake Mix
If you ever want to take a simple box cake mix and turn it into something special, these cupcakes are the perfect example. You do not need baking soda or baking powder because the cake mix already has everything you need. I made these one afternoon when we had extra fruit in the kitchen and they turned out amazing. They did not last long and our bellies were very happy after eating a couple each.
If you have leftover bananas, use them for banana monkey tails or banana cream pie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Starts with a box mix so the cupcakes come together quickly and always bake up perfectly.
- Fresh banana inside each cupcake gives a fun surprise and adds real banana split flavor.
- Whipped cream topping keeps everything light and creamy instead of heavy frosting.
- Toasted coconut adds texture and a little sweetness that makes these feel like a true banana split.
- Easy to decorate right before serving with chocolate drizzle, strawberry syrup, and a cherry.
- Kid friendly and family approved because the flavors are familiar and fun.
- Great way to use ripe bananas when you want something different from banana bread.
Ingredients
- Optional chocolate or strawberry drizzle
- vanilla or yellow cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the box
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- shredded coconut
- Whipped cream
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Toast the Coconut Spread coconut on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes until golden or cook in a pan. Let cool.
- Prepare the Cake Batter Mix the cake batter according to the box instructions.
- Add the Banana Slice Place cupcake liners in your pan. Fill each liner halfway with batter. Add one slice of banana. Cover with more batter.
- Bake Bake according to the box directions. Let the cupcakes cool completely.
- Decorate Before Serving Top each cupcake with whipped cream, toasted coconut, drizzle, and a cherry.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor
- Do not add mashed banana, just a slice
- Add toppings right before serving
- Freeze undecorated cupcakes for later
- These are great for kids and picky eaters
Variations
- Chocolate drizzle
- Strawberry syrup
- Chopped nuts
- Chocolate vanilla swirl cake mix
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these cupcakes easy to make? Yes. You start with a box mix and add a banana slice inside each cupcake.
Can I make these ahead? Bake the cupcakes ahead, but add whipped cream and toppings right before serving.
How much coconut do I need? About one cup of sweetened shredded coconut.
Do I need ripe bananas? Yes. Ripe bananas give the best flavor and texture.
Banana Split Cupcakes
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 yellow box cake
- 1 20 oz crushed pineapple, drained
- 3 eggs
- ¼ cup water
- 2 medium banana
Topping
- whipped cream (can or tub)
- toasted coconut
- maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to temperature on the box.
- Take your box cake and add the eggs and crushed pineapple and water.
- Place the cupcake liner in the tray or spray the cupcake tray.
- Add 1 tablespoon of batter into the tray for each cupcake.
- Take the banana, peel and cut 1/2" to 1 inch pieces and place into the middle of the cupcake batter in each cupcake.
- Take the left over batter and cover the banana with batter. (I filled the cupcake liner to the top)
- Bake the cupcakes per the instructions on the box or until they test done with a toothpick.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool.
- Once the cupcakes are cool, give them a good dollop of whipped cream and spread around.
- Sprinkle or roll the cupcake into the toasted coconut and top with a maraschino cherry.
Video
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