Banana pudding is one of those beloved classic desserts that evoke fond memories of family gatherings, summer picnics, and comforting home-cooked meals. The creamy layers of pudding, sweet ripe bananas, and crispy vanilla wafers make for a nostalgic treat that has been cherished for generations. Now, imagine taking all those delicious flavors and presenting them in a pie form—simple, elegant, and just as comforting. This Banana Pudding Pie takes the traditional banana pudding to a whole new level, transforming it into a show-stopping dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
My own love affair with banana pudding pie began during a family reunion where my aunt, known for her incredible desserts, brought out a pie that instantly stole the show. The combination of creamy pudding and fresh bananas, encased in a perfectly crisp pie crust, was a revelation. As I savored each bite, I knew I had to recreate this dessert at home. Since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen, often making appearances at gatherings, potlucks, and even quiet weekend dinners when I need a little comfort. This recipe has evolved over time, and each iteration brings me closer to that unforgettable pie I first enjoyed years ago.
Ingredients
1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade), baked and cooled
3 bananas, sliced
2 cups milk
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup granulated sugar
A pinch of salt
3 large egg yolks, beaten
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Vanilla Pudding
Mix Dry Ingredients
Begin by setting up a medium saucepan over medium heat. In this saucepan, combine 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together to ensure they are well-blended.
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk to the dry ingredients. It’s important to add the milk slowly and whisk continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
Cook the Pudding
Place the saucepan on the stove and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to stir frequently as the pudding mixture heats up. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2 minutes, or until it thickens.
Temper the Egg Yolks
While the pudding mixture is simmering, beat 3 large egg yolks in a separate bowl. To temper the yolks and prevent them from curdling, slowly whisk a small amount of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks. This will gradually raise the temperature of the yolks.
Combine Yolks and Pudding
Slowly pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining pudding mixture, whisking continuously. This step ensures that the egg yolks are fully incorporated into the pudding without scrambling.
Finish Cooking
Reduce the heat to low and cook the pudding for an additional minute, stirring constantly. Once the pudding has reached the desired thickness, remove it from the heat.
Add Butter and Vanilla
Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the hot pudding. The butter will add richness, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor. Mix until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
Cool the Pudding
Allow the pudding to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step. You can speed up this process by placing the saucepan in a cool water bath.
Step 2: Assembling the Pie
Prepare the Pie Crust
Ensure your 9-inch pie crust is fully baked and cooled. If you’re using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for baking and cooling. If making a homemade crust, allow it to cool completely before filling.
Layer the Bananas
Arrange 3 sliced bananas evenly over the bottom of the cooled pie crust. The bananas should be spread out in a single layer to ensure each slice of pie gets a good portion of fruit.
Add the Pudding
Pour the warm vanilla pudding over the banana slices. Gently spread the pudding with a spatula to cover all the bananas completely. Smooth the top of the pudding to ensure an even layer.
Cover and Chill
To prevent a skin from forming on the pudding, cover the surface of the pie with plastic wrap. Make sure the wrap is in direct contact with the pudding. Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or until the pudding is fully set.
Step 3: Preparing the Whipped Cream Topping
Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the cream until soft peaks form. This process will give you a light, fluffy whipped cream topping.
Spread the Whipped Cream
Once the pie is set and chilled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the pie. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
Garnish (Optional)
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the top of the pie with additional banana slices or vanilla wafers. This adds both visual appeal and a bit of extra flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience or make your own from scratch. If you prefer a graham cracker crust or a chocolate crust, those can also be delightful alternatives.
Bananas: To prevent the bananas from browning too quickly, you can toss them lightly with lemon juice before layering them in the pie. If bananas aren’t in season or you’re looking for a variation, you can substitute with fresh berries or sliced peaches.
Pudding: For a different flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the pudding mixture for a chocolate version. Alternatively, try using almond or coconut extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist.
Whipped Cream: If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping. For a flavored twist, consider adding a splash of liqueur or a bit of cinnamon to the whipped cream.
Conclusion
Banana Pudding Pie is a dish that combines the comforting flavors of a classic dessert with the elegant presentation of a pie. This recipe is not only straightforward to make but also offers a rich and satisfying treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, attending a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this pie is sure to impress.
The creamy vanilla pudding, sweet banana slices, and fluffy whipped cream come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each bite delivers a taste of nostalgia and comfort, reminding us of the simple pleasures in life. With its versatility and timeless appeal, Banana Pudding Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a cherished recipe that brings joy and satisfaction to all who enjoy it.
