Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Bursting with layers of creamy banana filling, smooth whipped cream, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this banana cream pie will not disappoint.
Incorporating ripe bananas, vanilla custard, and a touch of cinnamon, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors. The creamy filling melts in your mouth while the graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch. Topped with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream and garnished with sliced bananas, every bite is a heavenly combination of textures and tastes.
Not only does this banana cream pie taste incredible, but it’s also easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll have a decadent dessert ready in no time. So, grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible banana cream pie recipe.
The History of Banana Cream Pie
Banana cream pie has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the late 19th century. Its origins can be traced to the United States, where it quickly became a beloved dessert. The combination of bananas, custard, and a flaky crust proved to be a winning combination that has stood the test of time.
The first known recipe for banana cream pie can be found in a cookbook published in 1876. Over the years, variations of the recipe have emerged, with some adding additional ingredients like whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Today, banana cream pie is considered a classic American dessert and is a staple at diners and bakeries across the country.
Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Print Recipe Pin RecipeKitchen equipment list
- 1 Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup Melted butter
- 2 ripe Bananas, mashed
- 1 cup Sugar
- ¼ cup Cornstarch
- ¼ tsp Salt
- ½ cup Whole milk
- 4 large Egg yolks
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 2 tsp Vanilla extract
- ½ tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Powdered sugar
- Additional sliced bananas for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add the banana mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Pour the banana filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Just before serving, spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with sliced bananas.
- Slice and serve the banana cream pie, and enjoy!
❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips
Tips for Perfecting Your Banana Cream Pie
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your pie will be.
- Keep the crust crisp: To prevent a soggy crust, brush the bottom of the cooled crust with melted chocolate before adding the banana filling.
- Chill the pie thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight ensures that the filling sets properly and the flavors meld together.
- Use a piping bag for the whipped cream: For an elegant presentation, pipe the whipped cream onto the pie using a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
Nutrition
Variations and Substitutions for Banana Cream Pie
While this banana cream pie recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
- Chocolate Banana Cream Pie: Add a layer of melted chocolate or chocolate ganache to the bottom of the crust before adding the banana filling.
- Nutty Banana Cream Pie: Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, on top of the whipped cream for added crunch.
- Vegan Banana Cream Pie: Substitute the dairy milk, butter, and eggs with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk, coconut oil, and flax eggs.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to make your banana cream pie truly unique.
Serving and Storing Banana Cream Pie
Banana cream pie is best served chilled. Slice the pie into wedges and serve on dessert plates. For an extra touch, drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over each slice.
Leftover banana cream pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the whipped cream may lose its volume over time. To maintain the freshness, cover the pie with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions about Banana Cream Pie
Q: Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust instead of making my own? A: Yes, you can save time by using a pre-made graham cracker crust. Simply follow the instructions for the filling and topping.
Q: Can I freeze banana cream pie? A: While it’s possible to freeze banana cream pie, the texture of the filling and whipped cream may change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy the pie fresh or refrigerated.
Q: Can I use a different type of crust? A: Absolutely! If you prefer a different crust, feel free to experiment with alternatives like a traditional pastry crust or a chocolate cookie crust.
A Roundup of Other Delicious Pie Recipes
If you’re a fan of pies, here are a few more recipes you might enjoy:
- Classic Apple Pie
- Key Lime Pie
- Chocolate Silk Pie
Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Banana Cream Pie
In conclusion, this banana cream pie recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a creamy custard filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a dessert that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a slice of banana cream pie heaven. Your taste buds will thank you!