Banana Cream Pie is a timeless classic that never fails to delight. This luscious dessert boasts a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy banana-infused custard filling, and a cloud-like whipped topping. Whether for a casual family gathering or an elegant dinner party, this pie is a guaranteed showstopper. Its blend of textures and flavors—sweet bananas, rich custard, and crunchy crust—makes it utterly irresistible.
Ingredients for Banana Cream Pie
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (provides a sweet, crunchy base that perfectly complements the creamy filling)
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted (binds the crumbs together and adds richness)
- ⅓ cup sugar (enhances the sweetness of the crust)
Filling
- 2 bananas, sliced (layered in the crust for a burst of fresh banana flavor)
- 1 ¼ cups 2% milk (creates a creamy texture for the custard)
- 1 cup whipping cream (adds richness and smoothness to the filling)
- ⅔ cup sugar (sweetens the custard to perfection)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
- ¼ cup cornstarch (thickens the custard to the ideal consistency)
- 4 large egg yolks, room temperature (adds a rich, velvety texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the flavor profile)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (creates a silky finish for the custard)
Whipped Topping
- 1 cup whipping cream (whipped to airy perfection)
- 1 ½ tablespoons powdered sugar (sweetens the topping without weighing it down)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (adds subtle flavor to the topping)
- Bananas for garnish (a decorative touch that ties the flavors together)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer across the bottom and sides.
- Bake for 7 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, layer the crust with banana slices, covering the bottom and sides.
2. Make the Custard Filling
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, whipping cream, sugar, salt, and cornstarch over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble.
- Continue cooking for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add ½ cup of the hot custard mixture to temper the yolks, whisking continuously.
- Gradually pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan in a slow stream, whisking to incorporate.
- Cook until the custard thickens, leaving a trail when the whisk is dragged through it (about 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
- Cool for 15 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Pour the cooled custard into the prepared crust over the banana slices.
- Cover with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the filling to set.
4. Prepare the Whipped Topping
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 20 minutes.
- Combine whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in the chilled bowl.
- Beat on low speed until the mixture thickens, then increase to medium-high speed and whip until stiff peaks form.
5. Decorate and Serve
- Spread or pipe the whipped topping over the chilled pie.
- Garnish with banana slices and a sprinkle of reserved graham cracker crumbs for added flair.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Cream Pie
- Choose ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor. Avoid overripe bananas, as they may become mushy.
- To prevent bananas from browning, assemble the pie close to serving time or coat banana slices in lemon juice before layering.
- For a smoother custard, whisk constantly and ensure no lumps form during cooking.
- Use stabilized whipped cream if preparing the topping more than 24 hours in advance.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy pie with:
- A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a cozy dessert moment.
- A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
- A side of fresh berries to balance the richness with a touch of tartness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Banana Cream Pie is the ultimate dessert—easy to make, visually stunning, and downright delicious. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect crunch, while the creamy custard and fluffy whipped topping melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Make it today and experience the magic of homemade Banana Cream Pie. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures you won't forget.