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If you’re craving a truly timeless dessert that feels like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen, then this Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. It captures that perfect harmony of creamy custard, luscious bananas, and fluffy whipped cream nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Each bite is a nostalgic journey, combining rich textures and subtle vanilla notes that make it an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role — from the fresh bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture to the creamy custard that brings everything together with silky smoothness.
- Pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: Whether store-bought or homemade, it provides the perfect buttery, flaky base that holds all the goodness.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just right without overpowering the bananas.
- ¼ cup cornstarch: The essential thickener that creates a luscious, pudding-like filling.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- 3 cups whole milk: Gives the custard a rich and creamy texture.
- 4 large egg yolks: Essential for thickening the custard and adding a velvety richness.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and depth to the filling.
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract: Injects warm, fragrant notes to elevate the custard.
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced: The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and tender fruitiness.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped into clouds of sweetness for the perfect pie topping.
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the whipped cream’s flavor, tying it to the custard below.
- Optional garnishes: Banana slices or toasted coconut add a delightful flair and texture contrast.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base
Start by whisking together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan to evenly distribute the thickener and seasoning. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and lump-free, setting the stage for a beautifully creamy custard. Cook this blend over medium heat, stirring constantly so it thickens evenly and forms a glossy, pudding-like consistency just as it begins to bubble.
Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks
Carefully whisk your egg yolks in a small bowl, then slowly add a ladle of the hot milk mixture while whisking constantly. This gradual temperature increase prevents the yolks from scrambling and makes sure your custard will have that silky texture we all adore.
Step 3: Combine and Cook to Perfection
Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot mixture, stirring constantly. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens further, becoming rich and custardy. Then, remove the pan from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract to add a final layer of indulgent flavor and smoothness.
Step 4: Layer the Bananas and Custard
Arrange the banana slices evenly across the bottom of your pre-baked pie crust. This layer is crucial as it cushions the custard and offers bursts of fresh fruit in every bite. Pour the warm custard over the bananas, spreading it out gently for an even layer. To prevent a skin from forming, cover the custard surface directly with plastic wrap and chill the pie for at least 4 hours until fully set.
Step 5: Whip the Cream and Assemble
In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, creating light, airy dollops that are the perfect contrast to the dense custard. Spread or pipe the whipped cream generously over the chilled pie. Top with extra banana slices or toasted coconut if you want to add some pretty accents and a touch of crunch.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh banana slices and toasted coconut not only makes the pie look irresistible but also adds a lovely texture contrast. You can get creative here — a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chocolate shavings also complement the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad or a citrus sorbet. These counterbalances help to cleanse the palate so every forkful of pie feels just as exciting as the first.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional slice! Try serving individual banana cream pie trifles layered in pretty glass jars or use a decorative piping bag to create elegant whipped cream swirls. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can make this classic look and taste even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover banana cream pie covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Just be sure to protect the whipped cream topping to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
This pie is best enjoyed fresh because the bananas can become mushy when frozen. However, if you must freeze, cover it well and consume within a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and expect a slight change in texture.
Reheating
Since this pie is a custard dessert served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to cool room temperature before serving for the best flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust will add a wonderful buttery flavor and flakiness, though a store-bought crust is a convenient shortcut that still works beautifully for this recipe.
How ripe should the bananas be?
Choose bananas that are ripe but still firm with just a few brown spots. Overly ripe bananas can become mushy and may affect the texture of the pie.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Whole milk is recommended for richness and creaminess, but you can use 2% milk if needed. Just expect a slightly lighter texture.
Is it necessary to chill the pie for 4 hours?
Yes, chilling allows the custard to set firmly and the flavors to meld perfectly. Patience here really pays off in taste and texture.
How long does the whipped cream topping last?
When stored properly in the fridge, freshly whipped cream will keep its texture for about a day. After that, it may begin to weep or lose its fluffiness.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie Recipe brings so much joy to the table, from its luscious custard to the fresh bananas and airy whipped cream topping. It’s a true classic that invites sweet memories with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try — once you do, this pie might just become your new favorite dessert to share with friends and family.
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Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie features a pre-baked flaky crust filled with a smooth and creamy homemade vanilla custard, layered with ripe banana slices and topped with fluffy whipped cream. Perfectly chilled and garnished with extra banana slices or toasted coconut, this pie is a nostalgic dessert that is both rich and refreshing, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pie and Custard Filling
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnish
- Banana slices or toasted coconut for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard Base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly to prevent lumps or burning, cooking until it thickens and starts bubbling gently.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a ladle of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking continuously to avoid curdling.
- Combine and Thicken: Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining mixture, stirring constantly. Continue to cook over medium heat for another 2–3 minutes until the custard thickens further.
- Finish the Custard: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until melted and fully incorporated. Allow the custard to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Pie Filling: Evenly arrange the sliced bananas on the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust, creating a uniform layer.
- Add the Custard: Pour the slightly cooled custard over the banana slices, spreading it evenly to cover them completely.
- Prevent Skin Formation: Cover the surface of the custard directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming during chilling.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow the custard to fully set and flavors to meld.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form, indicating a firm but fluffy texture.
- Top the Pie: Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the chilled custard layer.
- Garnish and Serve: Add optional banana slices or toasted coconut on top for decoration, then slice the pie and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the custard is cooled before pouring over the bananas to prevent browning or mushiness.
- Tempering egg yolks is crucial to avoid scrambling when combining with hot milk.
- Pressing plastic wrap directly on the custard surface prevents a skin from forming.
- Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor.
- Banana slices for garnish can be dipped in lemon juice to prevent browning if prepared ahead.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness.
