If you’re a fan of creamy, dreamy desserts, then Banana Cream Pie is a must-try! This classic pie features a buttery crust, a rich banana-flavored custard filling, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, creamy, and light, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture – A smooth banana custard that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect balance of flavors – Sweet bananas, silky vanilla filling, and a flaky crust.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients come together for a homemade classic.
- Great for any occasion – Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because!
- Make-ahead friendly – Prepare in advance and chill until ready to serve.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Bananas, sliced
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Egg yolks
- Vanilla extract
- Butter
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Directions
- Prepare the crust – Bake your pie crust according to package or recipe instructions, then let it cool completely.
- Make the custard – In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and milk over medium heat until thickened.
- Temper the eggs – Slowly add hot milk mixture to beaten egg yolks, then return to the saucepan and cook until creamy.
- Add flavor – Stir in butter and vanilla extract for a rich taste.
- Layer the pie – Arrange banana slices in the cooled crust and pour the custard over them.
- Chill – Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Top with whipped cream – Before serving, spread or pipe whipped cream on top and add extra banana slices if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: About 4 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Use a graham cracker crust – For a sweeter, crunchier base.
- Add chocolate – Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or add chocolate shavings.
- Caramel twist – Swirl caramel sauce into the custard before chilling.
- Coconut banana pie – Add shredded coconut to the custard for extra flavor.
- Gluten-free option – Use a gluten-free pie crust or skip the crust for a pudding-style dessert.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the custard may become watery when thawed.
- Reheating: Serve chilled—no reheating needed!
FAQs
Can I use instant pudding instead of homemade custard?
Yes, but homemade custard gives a richer, more authentic taste.
How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
Brush banana slices with lemon juice before adding them to the pie.
Can I make Banana Cream Pie ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
What’s the best type of crust for this pie?
A traditional pastry crust or graham cracker crust both work well.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Whole milk is best for a creamy texture, but you can use 2% if needed.
How do I make the whipped cream topping more stable?
Add a tablespoon of powdered sugar or cornstarch when whipping the cream.
Can I add more bananas?
Yes, but too many can make the pie watery over time.
What’s the difference between Banana Cream Pie and Banana Pudding?
Banana Cream Pie has a set custard filling in a crust, while banana pudding is more of a layered dessert.
Can I use frozen bananas?
No, frozen bananas become too mushy for this pie.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Pre-bake the crust fully and let it cool before adding the filling.
Conclusion
If you love Banana Cream Pie, this recipe is sure to become a favorite! With its creamy banana custard, buttery crust, and fluffy whipped cream topping, it’s a classic dessert that never disappoints. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, this pie is always a hit. Try it today and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Banana Cream Pie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 min
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (except crust)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you love smooth, creamy desserts, this Banana Cream Pie is a must-try! It features a buttery crust, a rich banana-flavored custard, and a fluffy whipped cream topping, making it the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Bake your pie crust according to package or recipe instructions, then let it cool completely.
- Make the Custard: In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and milk over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the beaten egg yolks while whisking. Then, return everything to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the Pie: Arrange banana slices in the cooled crust and pour the warm custard over them.
- Chill: Cover with plastic wrap (pressing it onto the surface of the custard) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Before serving, spread or pipe whipped cream over the pie and garnish with extra banana slices if desired.
- Slice & Enjoy!
Notes
- Crust Options: Try a graham cracker crust for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Chocolate Twist: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or add chocolate shavings.
- Caramel Banana Pie: Swirl caramel sauce into the custard before chilling.
- Coconut Flavor: Stir shredded coconut into the custard for a tropical touch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust or serve as a banana pudding-style dessert.
- Prevent Browning: Brush banana slices with lemon juice to keep them from turning brown.
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