Banana Cream Pie

There’s something about a slice of Banana Cream Pie that brings back some of my fondest childhood memories. I remember my grandmother making it on warm summer days, the kitchen filled with the sweet scent of ripe bananas and fresh cream. Every bite was a blissful combination of a flaky crust and creamy filling, topped with luscious whipped cream. It’s a dessert that brings people together, evoking feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this Banana Cream Pie is sure to be a hit. Let me share with you how I recreate this classic treat that never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Banana Cream Pie

The ingredients for this Banana Cream Pie are simple but essential for achieving that rich, creamy texture and delightful flavor. Each ingredient plays a critical role in the overall success of the pie, creating a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds dancing.

• 9-inch pie crust: This serves as the foundation, providing a buttery crunch that complements the creamy filling.
• Vanilla bean: For an aromatic flavor that elevates the custard.
• Milk: A key ingredient for the custard, adding creaminess.
• Heavy cream: To achieve that rich, velvety texture in both the custard and the whipped topping.
• Sugar: For sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Cornstarch: This thickens the custard to the perfect consistency.
• Egg yolks: Essential for richness and helping to form the custard.
• Bananas: The star of the show, adding natural sweetness and flavor.
• Powdered sugar: For sweetening the whipped cream topping.

Making This Banana Cream Pie

Creating this Banana Cream Pie may seem daunting, but I promise it’s a delightful experience! Here’s how to go about making this delicious treat step-by-step.

1. Start by splitting a vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the vanilla pod to a saucepan with milk and heavy cream. Set aside the seeds for later.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Then mix in egg yolks and the reserved vanilla bean seeds, whisking until the mixture is smooth and lightens in color.
3. Heat the milk and cream mixture on medium until it’s almost boiling—watch for small bubbles forming around the edges.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the vanilla pods. While whisking, slowly drizzle a scant cup of the hot liquid into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs, preventing them from curdling.
5. Slowly whisk in the remaining hot liquid until smooth. Return the mixture to the stovetop and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
6. Be cautious to adjust the heat to avoid scorching. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir a few times until it cools to about 140º.
7. Transfer the mixture to a food processor, adding butter. Pulse until the butter melts, and the custard is smooth and glossy.
8. Pour the custard into a bowl set over ice water, stirring occasionally until cool. I like to fill my sink partway with ice cubes and water to speed up the process. Once cool, cover the surface with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least three hours.
9. After the custard has chilled, scrape about half into the prepared pie crust. Arrange banana slices on top, then spoon the remaining custard over them.
10. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Top the pie generously with the whipped cream. Slice and enjoy your homemade Banana Cream Pie!

Tips and Variations

Every recipe benefits from a few tips! Here are some helpful suggestions for making your Banana Cream Pie even better.

• Storage: Keep the pie refrigerated and cover it to maintain freshness. It’s best enjoyed within three days.
• Freezing: While it’s not recommended to freeze the whole pie, you can freeze the custard separately and assemble it later.
• Pairing: Serve with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an added layer of flavor.
• Variations: Try adding a layer of chocolate custard beneath the bananas for a delicious twist.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this Banana Cream Pie, the options are numerous. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Perfect for Summer Gatherings: This pie is a hit at barbeques, picnics, or any summer celebration.
• Great for Holiday Feasts: It can serve as a refreshing dessert option during winter holidays, too, contrasting with richer dishes.
• Family Occasions: It’s an ideal dessert for birthdays, reunions, or any family gathering, bringing everyone together over a slice.
• For Afternoon Tea: Serve it alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Banana Cream Pie is a delightful celebration of flavors and memories, blending creamy custard with sweet bananas in a flaky crust. It’s a dessert that transcends generations and brings joy to any table. I encourage you to try making this pie yourself; it’s easier than you think, and your loved ones will appreciate the effort. Dive into a slice of nostalgia and treat yourself tonight!

Banana Cream Pie

The ultimate comfort food, this Banana Cream Pie is creamy, sweet, and easy to make. With layers of smooth custard, ripe bananas, and whipped cream, it's a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Indulge your cravings and make this pie tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Food Processor
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 9-inch pie crust homemade or store-bought, baked and cooled
• 1 each vanilla bean for flavoring the custard
• 2 cups milk whole milk preferred
• 2 cups heavy cream for the custard and topping
• 3/4 cup sugar for sweetness
• 1/4 cup cornstarch to thicken the custard
• 4 each egg yolks to enrich the custard
• 3 each bananas fresh, for layering in the pie
• 1 cup powdered sugar for sweetening the whipped cream

Instructions

 

• 1. Start by splitting a vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the vanilla pod to a saucepan with milk and heavy cream. Set aside the seeds for later.
• 2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Then mix in egg yolks and the reserved vanilla bean seeds, whisking until the mixture is smooth and lightens in color.
• 3. Heat the milk and cream mixture on medium until it’s almost boiling—watch for small bubbles forming around the edges.
• 4. Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the vanilla pods. While whisking, slowly drizzle a scant cup of the hot liquid into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs, preventing them from curdling.
• 5. Slowly whisk in the remaining hot liquid until smooth. Return the mixture to the stovetop and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
• 6. Be cautious to adjust the heat to avoid scorching. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir a few times until it cools to about 140º.
• 7. Transfer the mixture to a food processor, adding butter. Pulse until the butter melts, and the custard is smooth and glossy.
• 8. Pour the custard into a bowl set over ice water, stirring occasionally until cool. I like to fill my sink partway with ice cubes and water to speed up the process. Once cool, cover the surface with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least three hours.
• 9. After the custard has chilled, scrape about half into the prepared pie crust. Arrange banana slices on top, then spoon the remaining custard over them.
• 10. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Top the pie generously with the whipped cream. Slice and enjoy your homemade Banana Cream Pie!

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep the pie refrigerated and cover it to maintain freshness. It’s best enjoyed within three days.
• Tip 2: While it's not recommended to freeze the whole pie, you can freeze the custard separately and assemble it later.
• Tip 3: Serve with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an added layer of flavor.
• Tip 4: Try adding a layer of chocolate custard beneath the bananas for a delicious twist.

Keyword Banana Cream Pie, Classic Banana Pie, Desserts, Easy Pie Recipes

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Meet Layla Reed

I’m Layla! I am happiest when I’m cooking with ingredients that are fresh from the market and in season. I love creating rustic, wholesome dishes that truly celebrate the natural flavors of the produce. I worked alongside Romina to ensure this recipe feels grounded, authentic, and absolutely delicious. I hope it brings a taste of the season to your home!