Creating the Southern Style Banana Split Cake can be a simple yet rewarding process. Follow these steps for a successful baking experience:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter.
5. Divide Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 20-25 minutes. Then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Prepare Whipped Cream: While the cakes are cooling, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
9. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top.
10. Add Toppings: Layer sliced strawberries over the whipped cream and drizzle chocolate syrup on top. Place the second cake layer on top.
11. Finish with Whipped Cream: Spread more whipped cream over the top layer and garnish with additional strawberries and chopped nuts, if desired.
12. Chill: For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

These steps will guide you in creating this incredible Southern Style Banana Split Cake effortlessly.