Banana Cream Pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by generations. It is a delicious and creamy pie that features a crisp pastry crust, a layer of fresh bananas, and a rich and smooth vanilla custard filling. The pie is then topped with whipped cream and additional slices of fresh bananas.
How To Make:
To make Banana Cream Pie, a pastry crust is first baked and allowed to cool. Then, a layer of sliced bananas is arranged on the bottom of the crust. A creamy custard filling is prepared by cooking a mixture of milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until thickened. This custard is then poured over the bananas in the crust and allowed to chill until set.
Once the pie is chilled and set, it is topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and garnished with additional slices of fresh bananas. The resulting dessert is creamy, sweet, and utterly irresistible.
Banana Cream Pie is a popular dessert for special occasions and holidays, but it is also a great choice for everyday indulgence. It is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great dessert option for busy schedules. Plus, its classic flavor profile is sure to please a crowd.
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
Choose ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture
Blind-bake the pie crust to prevent it from getting soggy.
To prevent the banana slices from browning, you can toss them with a little lemon juice or dip them in a mixture of water and lemon juice before layering them in the pie.
To prevent the custard from forming a skin on top, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard before refrigerating.
Top the pie with whipped cream just before serving to prevent it from deflating.
Variations:
Chocolate Banana Cream Pie: Add a layer of chocolate ganache to the bottom of the pie crust before adding the sliced bananas and custard. Top with whipped cream and grated chocolate.
Peanut Butter Banana Cream Pie: Mix some peanut butter into the custard before layering it with the bananas. Top with whipped cream and chopped peanuts.
Coconut Banana Cream Pie: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk in the custard and top with toasted coconut flakes.
Caramel Banana Cream Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the sliced bananas before adding the custard. Whipping cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce goes on top.
Banana Cream Pie Parfaits: Layer sliced bananas, custard, and crumbled graham crackers or vanilla wafers in parfait glasses. Add whipped cream and cinnamon to the top.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges as desired. Using a fork, prick the crust's bottom all over. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until just beginning to turn golden. Remove the meal from the oven and allow it to completely cool.
Layer the sliced bananas over the bottom of the cooled pie crust.
In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks until smooth. Boil the mixture while constantly whisking over medium heat until it thickens and boils. This should take about 10 minutes.
Remove from the heat and add in the butter and vanilla extract, whisking until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Pour the custard over the sliced bananas in the pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top of the custard.
Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard to prevent skin from forming. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until the custard is completely chilled and set.
When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and top the pie with whipped cream.