Homemade Banana Cream Pie Recipe

The Dreamiest Homemade Banana Cream Pie Recipe for Pie Lovers

Creamy, dreamy banana cream pie with a buttery crust captures the essence of comfort desserts.

Rich layers of silky smooth filling showcase banana cream pie perfection in every slice.

The golden graham cracker base provides a delectable foundation for luscious banana-infused custard.

Whipped cream clouds dance across the top, creating a dessert that speaks to classic American baking traditions.

Each forkful promises a delightful balance of sweet bananas and velvety cream.

Indulge in this nostalgic treat that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular homemade dessert.

Banana Cream Pie Ingredient List

Pie Crust Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The base for creating a tender and flaky pie crust.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pie crust.
  • Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and helps create a flaky texture.
  • Cold Water: Helps bind the dough together without developing too much gluten.
Custard Filling Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the custard base.
  • Cornstarch: Thickens the custard and gives it a smooth consistency.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
  • Whole Milk: Creates a creamy and rich custard base.
  • Egg Yolks: Adds richness and helps thicken the custard.
  • Unsalted Butter: Provides a smooth and silky texture to the custard.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the filling.
Topping and Assembly Ingredients:
  • Ripe Bananas: The star ingredient that provides fresh, sweet flavor to the pie.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a light and fluffy whipped cream topping.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic flavor to the whipped cream.

Steps for a Silky Banana Cream Pie

Step 1: Prepare Flaky Pie Crust

Grab your food processor and combine flour, sugar, and salt.

Toss in cold butter and pulse until the mixture looks like tiny pebbles.

Slowly drizzle cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.

Shape the dough into a smooth disk, wrap it up, and let it chill in the refrigerator for half an hour.

Heat the oven to 375°F.

Roll out the dough on a flour-dusted surface, transfer to a pie dish, and poke some holes in the bottom with a fork.

Bake until golden and crisp, about 15-18 minutes.

Let the crust cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up Silky Custard Filling

In a saucepan, mix together:
  • Sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Salt

Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles.

Crack egg yolks into a separate bowl and beat them.

Carefully warm the yolks by adding a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture.

Pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook for 2-3 more minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in:
  • Butter
  • Vanilla extract

Let the custard cool down slightly.

Step 3: Build Your Banana Cream Masterpiece

Arrange a layer of fresh banana slices across the cooled pie crust.

Gently pour the custard over the bananas, spreading it evenly.

Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until completely set.

Step 4: Crown with Fluffy Whipped Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip together:
  • Heavy cream
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Beat until the cream forms beautiful stiff peaks.

Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.

For an extra touch, garnish with additional banana slices.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Cream Pie Texture

  • Blind bake the pie crust and let it cool completely before adding fillings to maintain a crisp texture.
  • Whisk constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and achieve a silky, creamy consistency.
  • Toss sliced bananas with a little lemon juice to prevent browning and maintain their bright color.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and whisk beforehand to help the cream whip faster and hold its shape longer.
  • Allow the custard to cool slightly before assembling to prevent the bananas from becoming mushy and maintain distinct layers.

Banana Cream Pie Swaps and Variations

  • Chocolate Banana Cream Pie: Replace vanilla extract with melted dark chocolate in the custard, and add cocoa powder to the whipped cream for a rich, chocolatey version.
  • Coconut Banana Cream Pie: Incorporate shredded coconut into the crust and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the whipped cream for a tropical flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Banana Cream Pie: Swap regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for the crust, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this dessert.
  • Vegan Banana Cream Pie: Use coconut milk instead of dairy milk, replace egg yolks with cornstarch, and substitute whipped coconut cream for traditional whipped cream to create a plant-based alternative.

Creative Serving Ideas for Banana Cream Pie

  • Sweet Banana Layer Delight: Create beautiful banana layers across the pie crust, ensuring each slice gets maximum fruit goodness and creamy custard coverage.
  • Elegant Whipped Cream Swirl: Use a piping bag with a star tip to create gorgeous decorative whipped cream peaks, making the pie look professionally crafted and visually stunning.
  • Nutty Crunch Topping: Sprinkle toasted chopped almonds or pecans over the whipped cream for an unexpected texture contrast and delightful crunch that complements the smooth banana cream.
  • Fresh Fruit Finale: Arrange thin banana slices or caramelized banana coins on top as a fresh garnish, adding color and highlighting the pie's primary flavor profile.

Storing Banana Cream Pie Slices

  • Cover the banana cream pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pie away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor transfer.
  • Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the texture.
  • Avoid reheating the entire pie. Instead, add fresh whipped cream just before serving to restore the creamy texture and prevent separation.
  • Store individual slices in airtight containers with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain freshness for 1-2 days.

FAQs

  • Is banana cream pie difficult to make?

No, it’s surprisingly simple! With basic ingredients and step-by-step instructions, even beginner bakers can successfully create this delicious dessert.

  • Can I make the pie crust from scratch?

Absolutely! The recipe provides easy homemade pie crust instructions using flour, butter, sugar, and cold water. Making your own crust adds a personal touch and better flavor.

  • How do I prevent my custard from becoming lumpy?

Whisk constantly while cooking and gradually add hot milk to egg yolks to temper them. This technique ensures a smooth, creamy custard without any unwanted lumps.

Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie Remade

  • Create a Delectable Dessert: Whip up a creamy, dreamy banana cream pie that transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping treat everyone will love.
  • Master Baking Techniques: Learn professional pastry skills like tempering eggs, making custard from scratch, and creating a perfectly flaky pie crust with easy-to-follow steps.
  • Customize with Ease: Personalize this classic dessert by adding chocolate shavings, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of caramel to make it uniquely yours.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Delight family and friends with a nostalgic dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations.
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Homemade Banana Cream Pie Recipe

Homemade Banana Cream Pie Recipe


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4.9 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy homemade banana cream pie whisks you into dessert paradise with its silky custard and flaky crust. Delicate banana slices and clouds of whipped cream promise pure comfort in each heavenly bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust Ingredients:

  • 1.25 cups (297 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoons salt
  • 0.5 cups (118 ml) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 24 tablespoons ice water

Custard Filling Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 1.5 cups (355 ml) whole milk
  • 0.5 cups (118 ml) heavy cream
  • 0.5 cups (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 0.25 cups (30 g) cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Topping Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (236 ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes:

  • Extra banana slices
  • Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls
  • Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs

Instructions

  1. Craft the pie crust by combining flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Incorporate cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water to form a cohesive dough. Shape into a disk, refrigerate for 30 minutes at 40°F.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface, transfer to a pie dish. Pierce bottom with a fork and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
  3. Prepare custard by whisking sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan. Slowly incorporate milk, cooking over medium heat while continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
  4. Temper egg yolks by gradually adding hot milk mixture, then return the yolk mixture to the saucepan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and fold in butter and vanilla extract. Let custard cool slightly.
  5. Arrange banana slices evenly across the cooled pie crust. Gently pour custard over bananas, ensuring complete coverage.
  6. Refrigerate pie for 4 hours, covering surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation.
  7. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks develop. Spread or pipe whipped cream over chilled pie.
  8. Optional: Garnish with additional banana slices before serving. Chill until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is cold for the flakiest pie crust, cutting it into small cubes helps create a crumbly texture.
  • When tempering egg yolks, pour hot mixture slowly and whisk constantly to prevent scrambling.
  • Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent mushy layers and maintain structural integrity of the pie.
  • Make the pie a day ahead for maximum flavor melding and easier slicing.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 312 kcal
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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