A banana split is an ice cream-based dessert. In its classic form it is served in a long dish called a "boat". A banana is cut in two lengthwise (hence the split) and laid in the dish. Three scoops of ice cream - vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, are placed adjacent to each other between the banana halves. Chocolate (or hot fudge), strawberry, and caramel toppings (syrups or preserves) are poured over the ice cream. The final topping is a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on each scoop of ice cream.
