The banana split is a dessert that brings smiles to faces, from its layers to its indulgent taste. But have you ever wondered where this iconic treat came from? As one of the most famous and loved sundaes, it’s no surprise that the banana split has a rich history. Often served in generous portions, it’s the perfect dessert to share—whether on a warm summer evening or during a fun night out.
Sweet History Behind the Banana Split
Though many people have their own theories about its origin, the most well-documented story traces the birth of the banana split back to 1904 in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Here, David Strickler, a local pharmacist, is credited with creating the banana split. Strickler sliced a ripe banana down the middle, then topped it with scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, followed by a drizzle of syrup, whipped cream, and nuts. To serve this masterpiece, Strickler enlisted the help of a glassmaker to create the now-famous “banana boat” dish that would hold the dessert perfectly.
While Latrobe enjoys the recognition as the birthplace of the banana split, other cities—such as Wilmington, Ohio, and Boston—also claim to be its origin point. Wilmington even celebrates its banana split legacy by hosting the annual Banana Split Festival. Regardless of who invented it, it was Walgreens pharmacy that helped spread the banana split nationwide, turning it into the dessert we know and love today.
Though it’s delicious year-round, there’s something about the warm summer months that makes banana splits even more irresistible. And while enjoying this treat, here are some fun facts about bananas and ice cream:
- Technically, a banana is considered a berry. Unlike most berries, its seeds are located inside the flesh rather than on the outside.
- In the United States, the average person consumes approximately 0.074 pounds of bananas per day.
- The first banana split sold for only 10 cents, which was actually double the cost of other sundaes at the time.
- Ancient Romans were known to send people to gather snow from the mountains, which they flavored with fruit and juices to make a rudimentary version of ice cream.
- About half of the volume of ice cream is air, which is what gives it that light, creamy texture.
- For the best banana split experience, be sure to use a ripe, yellow banana. A green banana can be too starchy, while a yellow one offers just the right balance of sweetness.
