How to Make Classic Banana Cream Pie Perfect Every Time
There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Classic Banana Cream Pie, isn’t there? The creamy filling, the sweet bananas, and that buttery pie crust come together to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to impress your guests or simply craving a nostalgic dessert, this recipe is your go-to! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. And if you’re in the mood for more banana goodness, check out my Easy Banana Bread or Moist Banana Bread recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a classic dessert that never goes out of style.
- Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to weeknight dinners.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
- Can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy schedules.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Classic Banana Cream Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 buttery pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups of milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping
- Optional: Nilla Wafers for garnish
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful pie:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake your pie crust according to package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the milk while whisking to combine.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a small amount of the hot mixture to the yolks to temper them, then whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Slice the bananas and layer them in the cooled pie crust. Pour the creamy filling over the bananas, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with additional banana slices and Nilla Wafers if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Classic Banana Cream Pie turns out perfectly every time:
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Make sure to cool the pie completely before adding the whipped cream to prevent it from melting.
- If you want to add a twist, try incorporating a layer of chocolate ganache for a Banana Cream Cheesecake vibe!
- For a fun presentation, use a piping bag to add whipped cream on top.
- Don’t skip the chilling time; it helps the pie set and enhances the flavors.
How to Serve
This pie is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert for warm days. I love to slice it up and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. If you’re looking for a delightful way to end a meal, this pie is perfect after quick family dinners or 30-minute meals like creamy garlic pasta or other easy pasta recipes.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Classic Banana Cream Pie can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy schedules. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, I recommend adding the whipped cream just before serving to keep it fresh and fluffy. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the bananas may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious!
So there you have it! A foolproof recipe for the World’s Best Banana Cream Pie. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert as much as I do. Happy baking!
Classic Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Pre-bake the pie crust until golden and let it cool.
- In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch; cook over medium heat until thickened.
- Whisk egg yolks and gradually add to the custard, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Pour custard into the cooled crust, layer sliced bananas on top, and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Top with whipped cream before serving.
