Description
Experience the timeless delight of Classic Homemade Banana Cream Pie, featuring a crisp prebaked crust, luscious silky custard filling infused with real vanilla, and fresh ripe bananas layered beneath a fluffy whipped cream topping. Perfect for any occasion, this pie balances creamy, fruity, and sweet elements in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust
- 1 prebaked pie crust (classic pastry or graham cracker)
For the banana filling
- 3 cups whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
For topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Use a prebaked pie crust, whether classic pastry or graham cracker, as the base for the pie. Ensure it is fully cooled before adding the filling.
- Make the custard filling: In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups whole milk, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup cornstarch, and ¼ tsp salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to dissolve the cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently.
- Temper the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk 4 large egg yolks. Slowly pour about half a cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking to temper them and prevent curdling.
- Combine custard: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes until the custard thickens further. Remove from heat.
- Add butter and vanilla: Stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a smooth, silky custard filling.
- Layer bananas: Slice 3 to 4 ripe bananas and arrange them evenly on top of the prebaked crust.
- Fill the pie: Pour the warm custard filling evenly over the sliced bananas, smoothing the top.
- Chill the pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the filling is set and chilled.
- Prepare the whipped cream topping: Whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) in a cold bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Top and serve: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie just before serving. Slice and enjoy your classic banana cream pie.
Notes
- Ensure your prebaked crust is completely cooled before adding filling to prevent sogginess.
- Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and sweetness.
- Press plastic wrap directly on the custard surface while chilling to avoid skin formation.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.