Description
This Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie features a creamy custard filling layered over fresh banana slices in a flaky pre-baked pie crust. Topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream, this classic American dessert is rich, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the filling:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For assembly and topping:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the custard filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Temper the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper, then pour this mixture back into the saucepan. Continue to cook over medium heat for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the custard is thick and glossy.
- Add butter and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Allow the custard to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
- Assemble the pie: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Pour the warm custard over the bananas, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until fully chilled and set.
- Prepare the whipped cream topping: Before serving, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Top and serve: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Optionally, garnish with extra banana slices or crushed vanilla wafers for added texture and presentation. Slice and enjoy.
Notes
- For extra banana flavor, layer additional banana slices on top of the custard before adding the whipped cream topping.
- Best enjoyed within 24 to 36 hours for optimal texture and freshness.
