Can you improve on the classic banana split? We think you can. With a few ideas for variations, a simple banana split becomes a culinary creation worthy of posting to Instagram — if you can take the photo before it gets gobbled up.
1. Caramelized bananas
Caramelized bananas add sweetness and depth. For a South American twist, try Brazilian fried bananas.
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2. Fried ice cream
Making classic Mexican fried ice cream is easier than you’d think. But if traditional fried ice cream sounds like a bit much, try our un-fried ice cream.
3. Atomic cherries
The adults will get a kick — figuratively and literally — out of these moonshine-soaked cherries.
4. Homemade maraschino cherries
Don’t leave the kiddos out of the cherry fun! Make these homemade maraschino cherries for the under-21 crowd.
5. Deconstructed banana split
Use banana chips for a deconstructed version. You can buy them at the store most of the year, or make your own at home.
6. Flavored whipped cream
Homemade whipped cream is easy, and homemade flavored whipped cream is a simple way to up the wow factor.
7. Custom sauces
Instead of prefab sauces, make your own unique flavors at home. Just about any berry sauce will complement bananas and ice cream.
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8. Fresh or dried fruit
Sprinkle your split with fresh or dried fruit instead of cherries. Or try grilled fruit for a touch of smokiness.
9. Cute toppers
Add personalized homemade toppers instead of cherries for a personal touch. We like fruit leather fortune cookies, piñata cookies or a pair of peanut butter cookie high heels.
10. Nut brittle
Instead of sprinkling on nuts, why not a bit of tasty nut brittle?
11. Fun ice cream flavors
A scoop each of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry is fun, but there’s no reason to stop there, whether you buy Ben & Jerry’s or make your own at home.
12. Ice cream sandwiches
Instead of ice cream scoops, top ice cream sandwiches with all the regular (or not) toppings.
More: 18 ingenious ice cream sandwich hacks that will keep you chill all summer
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