This banana pie combines a creamy custard filling with layers of fresh bananas, making it a comforting, indulgent dessert. It’s easy to prepare, requires just a few ingredients, and is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
Filling:
- 4-5 ripe bananas (sliced into rounds)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Crushed graham crackers or caramel drizzle for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar (if using). Stir until the crumbs are well-coated with butter and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan or baking dish, using the back of a spoon or your fingers to pack it down firmly.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and set. Let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Custard Filling:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, regular milk, and cornstarch. Add the egg yolks and a pinch of salt, and whisk everything until smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Be patient and stir continuously to avoid lumps.
- Once the custard has thickened, remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Let the custard cool slightly while you prepare the bananas.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Arrange the banana slices in an even layer over the cooled graham cracker crust.
- Pour the warm custard mixture over the bananas, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to cover all the fruit. The custard will seep between the banana slices, creating a luscious, creamy filling.
4. Chill the Pie:
- Transfer the pie to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. The pie can also be chilled overnight for even better flavor and texture.
5. Add Toppings and Serve:
- Before serving, you can top the pie with freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent layer. You can also garnish with crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor and texture.
- Slice and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Use Ripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe but not overripe. They should have a few brown spots on the peel, indicating that they are sweet and flavorful.
- Cornstarch for Creaminess: Cornstarch is key in thickening the custard filling. Make sure to whisk it well to avoid lumps, and cook the mixture slowly to allow it to thicken properly.
- Chill for Best Results: Chilling the pie for several hours (or overnight) ensures that the custard sets properly, giving the pie a firm, sliceable texture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Pie: For a chocolate twist, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the custard mixture or drizzle melted chocolate over the bananas before adding the custard.
- Banoffee Pie: This British favorite combines bananas with a layer of dulce de leche. Simply add a layer of caramel sauce over the bananas before pouring in the custard for a richer, sweeter dessert.
- Nutty Topping: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the top of the pie for added crunch and flavor.
Why This Banana Pie is a Hit:
- Creamy and Comforting: The combination of the smooth custard and soft bananas creates a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.
- Sweet and Simple: With the natural sweetness of the bananas and the rich flavor of the custard, this dessert doesn’t require a lot of extra sugar, making it simple yet satisfying.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it after a casual family dinner or at a holiday gathering, this banana pie is sure to impress. Plus, since it can be made in advance, it’s a great make-ahead dessert.
This creamy banana pie is a dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. With its buttery graham cracker crust, layers of ripe bananas, and rich, velvety custard, it’s no wonder why this pie disappears in no time. The best part is that it’s simple to make, yet it looks and tastes like a professional dessert. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this banana pie will leave everyone wanting more. Try it out for your next gathering and watch it become a fast favorite!
