One of the easiest and most delicious cream pies you can make from scratch is a classic Banana Cream Pie. It's a crowd-pleaser with its creamy filling, slices of fresh bananas, and a luscious whipped cream topping. Here's a simple and reliable recipe that's sure to be a hit:
Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
For the whipped cream topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Prepare the filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together 3/4 cup sugar, flour, and salt.
- Gradually stir in the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to boil.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, still stirring.
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.
- Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan, stirring constantly to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Let the filling cool for a few minutes, then cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until completely chilled.
Assemble the pie:
- Once the filling is chilled and the pie crust has cooled, arrange the sliced bananas in an even layer on the bottom of the crust.
- Pour the chilled cream filling over the bananas, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Prepare the whipped cream topping:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Beat the cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Finish the pie:
- Spread the whipped cream over the filling, covering it entirely.
- Optionally, you can garnish with additional banana slices or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.
Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to set properly.
- Slice and serve the delicious Banana Cream Pie to your delighted guests!
This classic Banana Cream Pie is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed hit at any gathering or dessert table. Enjoy!