Banana Cream Pie is a classic dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with creamy banana filling and a light, fluffy whipped topping. This pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. Its rich, creamy texture and sweet banana flavor make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe for Banana Cream Pie.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (reserve 1 1/2 tablespoons)
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/3 cup sugar
For the Filling:
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 1/4 cups 2% milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Bananas for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
- Press the Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to press it firmly.
- Bake: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy whipping cream. Heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, and cornstarch.
- Whisk the Egg Yolks: In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Eggs: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg yolks, whisking constantly until well combined.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly.
- Cook the Filling: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Remove from heat.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Layer Bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
- Add the Filling: Pour the filling over the bananas, spreading it out evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Topping
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Add Topping: Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Garnish the pie with additional banana slices and a sprinkle of reserved graham cracker crumbs.
- Serve: Slice and serve the Banana Cream Pie chilled. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. Overripe bananas may become too mushy.
- Cornstarch: Make sure to cook the filling long enough for the cornstarch to thicken properly.
- Whipped Topping: For a more stable whipped cream, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water to the cream before whipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust? A: Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust to save time. Just follow the instructions starting from filling the crust with bananas.
Q: How should I store the pie? A: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The whipped cream may start to deflate over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a day or two.
Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the filling a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and assemble the pie just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Banana Cream Pie? A: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the bananas and the filling may become watery upon thawing.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the graham cracker crust with a crust made from almond flour, and use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia. Ensure the other ingredients are also low in carbohydrates.
Banana Cream Pie is a timeless classic that combines the sweet, creamy goodness of bananas with a buttery graham cracker crust and fluffy whipped cream topping. This dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just to enjoy at home, this Banana Cream Pie is a must-try.
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