Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic banana cream pie. With its luscious custard filling, ripe bananas, and a cloud of whipped cream, this dessert is a delightful treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. This Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe is a breeze to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal effort, yet it delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this pie is sure to impress your friends and family!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe is not just about the delightful taste; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The creamy custard is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of ripe bananas, and the buttery crust provides just the right amount of crunch. The best part? It can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for parties or gatherings. With a few straightforward steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What to Buy

To make this Easy Banana Cream Pie, gather the following ingredients:

• 19-inch refrigerated pie crust (213 grams) – You can find this in the refrigerated section of your grocery store.
• Whole milk (2 cups, 454 grams) – Make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
• Large egg yolks (6, 300 grams) – Use fresh eggs for a richer custard.
• Brown sugar (½ cup, 107 grams) – Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Cornstarch (½ cup, sifted, 37 grams) – This is key for thickening the custard.
• Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon) – A warm spice that complements bananas beautifully.
• Freshly grated nutmeg (¼ teaspoon) – Adds a lovely aromatic quality to the pie.
• Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances the sweetness of the pie.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, 4 grams) – Always opt for pure over imitation for the best flavor.
• Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, 42 grams) – Cut into smaller pieces for easy incorporation into the custard.
• Ripe but firm bananas (3) – Choose bananas that are just ripe for the best texture and flavor.
• Heavy cream (1 cup, 227 grams) – For a rich, fluffy topping.
• Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons, 14 grams) – Sweetens the whipped cream.
• Sour cream (2 tablespoons, 28 grams) – Adds a tangy note to the whipped cream.

Setup & Equipment

Before you dive into making this Easy Banana Cream Pie, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Pie dish – A 9-inch dish works best for this recipe.
• Whisk – For mixing and combining ingredients smoothly.
• Medium saucepan – To cook the custard filling.
• Mixing bowls – For separating the egg yolks and mixing the whipped cream.
• Rubber spatula – To fold in the whipped cream and butter.
• Electric mixer – For whipping the cream to perfection.

Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe — Do This Next

Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious Easy Banana Cream Pie:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will help to achieve a perfectly golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Place the refrigerated pie crust into your 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Use a fork to poke holes all over the bottom of the crust to prevent bubbling. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and kosher salt. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and creamy. Gradually add a cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This step is crucial to prevent the eggs from scrambling.

Step 5: Cook the Custard

Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 6: Layer the Bananas

Slice the ripe bananas into thin rounds and layer them evenly over the cooled pie crust.

Step 7: Add the Custard

Pour the warm custard filling over the bananas, ensuring they are well covered. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed. Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or until set.

Step 8: Make the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form.

Step 9: Top the Pie

Once the pie is thoroughly chilled and set, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the custard, creating beautiful peaks for a decorative touch.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the pie into wedges, serve chilled, and enjoy every delicious bite of this Easy Banana Cream Pie!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Easy Banana Cream Pie can be customized for any season or occasion:

• Incorporate chocolate by adding chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top.
• For a tropical twist, mix in some coconut flakes with the custard.
• Serve with a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch.
• Add a layer of caramel sauce between the bananas and custard for a decadent treat.

Things That Go Wrong

Even though this Easy Banana Cream Pie is simple, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Custard not thickening: Make sure to whisk constantly while cooking, and don’t skip the step of tempering the egg yolks.
• Bananas browning too quickly: To help prevent browning, you can toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering them in the pie.
• Crust getting soggy: Ensure the crust is fully baked and cooled before adding the custard.
• Whipped cream deflating: Avoid over-whipping the cream; stop once soft peaks form for the best texture.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Easy Banana Cream Pie can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips:

• Prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
• Keep the whipped cream separate until just before serving to maintain its texture.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, but be mindful that the bananas may brown over time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor balance.

How can I make this pie gluten-free?

Simply use a gluten-free pie crust instead of the traditional refrigerated crust. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free options that work well.

Can I freeze the banana cream pie?

Freezing is not recommended for this pie, as the texture of the bananas and custard may suffer. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

What can I substitute for the sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in the whipped topping for a similar tangy flavor.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you’re inspired to create more delicious desserts, consider these ideas:

• Chocolate Pudding Pie – A rich and creamy alternative to banana cream.
• Berry Cream Pie – A vibrant, fruity twist perfect for summer.
• Key Lime Pie – A zesty, refreshing dessert that’s easy to whip up.
• Vanilla Cream Pie – For those who prefer a classic vanilla flavor.

Before You Go

Thank you for joining me on this delicious journey to create the perfect Easy Banana Cream Pie. This recipe is not just about the joy of baking; it’s about sharing delectable moments with those you love. I hope you enjoy making this pie as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your creations and memories with your friends and family. Happy baking!