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Classic Banana Cream Pie with Flaky Homemade Crust

A whole banana cream pie with one slice removed, topped with whipped cream and fresh banana slices.

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Make this classic banana cream pie featuring a flaky homemade crust, smooth vanilla custard, fresh bananas, and a light whipped cream topping. This indulgent dessert is perfect for holidays or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pre-baked 9-inch flaky pie crust
  • 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth.
  3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens significantly and begins to bubble. This takes about 8 to 10 minutes.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
  5. Temper the yolks by slowly whisking about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks.
  6. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk mixture.
  7. Return the saucepan to medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until the custard thickens further. Do not let it boil after adding the yolks.
  8. Remove from heat. Stir in the butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the butter melts and is fully incorporated.
  9. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Cool the custard in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  10. Assemble the pie: Arrange half of the sliced bananas in a single layer on the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust.
  11. Spoon the cooled custard evenly over the bananas.
  12. Arrange the remaining banana slices on top of the custard layer.
  13. Prepare the whipped cream topping: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  14. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the banana and custard layers.
  15. Chill the finished pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor in your filling and layers.
  • For an old fashioned flavor, consider using a homemade, all-butter flaky pie crust.
  • If you prefer a quicker method, you can substitute the homemade custard with a high-quality instant vanilla pudding mix, following package directions but using less milk for a thicker set.

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