Indulge in the creamy decadence of banana cream pie—a timeless dessert that combines buttery crust, velvety custard, and ripe bananas
Homemade Banana Cream Pie: A Slice of Pure Bliss
Description
Banana Cream Pie, an iconic dessert that has graced American tables for generations, is a testament to the harmonious marriage of simple ingredients and unforgettable flavors. At its heart, this beloved pie features perfectly ripe bananas nestled within a luscious vanilla custard, all cradled by a tender, flaky pie crust. The magic of this dessert lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort with every bite. It's a dessert that transcends generations, making its appearance at family gatherings, diners, and special occasions alike, symbolizing the joy of sharing time-tested traditions.
What makes Banana Cream Pie truly iconic is its creamy, dreamy allure that captivates dessert enthusiasts young and old. The silky custard filling, enriched with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creates a delightful contrast against the buttery, golden crust. Topped with billowy clouds of whipped cream, each forkful is a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on the palate. Whether you're savoring it at a cozy kitchen table or indulging in a generous slice at a classic diner, Banana Cream Pie is a comforting reminder that the simplest pleasures can bring the greatest joy. It's a slice of creamy delight that has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved symbol of American dessert culture.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
For the Filling
Making Banana Cream Pie
Equipment
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9-inch pie dish
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Rolling pin
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Saucepan
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Plastic wrap
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Parchment paper
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Pie weights or dried beans
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Electric mixer
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Spatula
Instructions
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Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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Step 2: Roll Out the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle to fit your 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie dish, trim any excess, and crimp the edges. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
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Step 3: Bake the Crust
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden. Remove the parchment paper and weights, then return the crust to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the bottom is fully cooked. Let the crust cool completely.
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Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- In a saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil. Boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
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Step 5: Temper the Eggs
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. This tempers the eggs and prevents them from curdling. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
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Step 6: Finish the Filling
- Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling thickens further. Remove it from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Let the filling cool slightly.
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Step 7: Assemble the Pie
- Arrange the sliced bananas in the bottom of the baked and cooled pie crust. Pour the warm filling over the bananas, spreading it evenly. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until it's set.
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Step 8: Whip the Cream
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled banana filling.
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Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- Optionally, garnish the pie with additional banana slices and grated chocolate. Slice and serve your homemade Banana Cream Pie, a delightful dessert that balances creamy, fruity, and sweet flavors in each bite.
This Banana Cream Pie recipe is a delightful American classic that pairs a buttery pie crust with a luscious banana and vanilla custard filling, all topped with billowy whipped cream. Perfectly ripe bananas and a creamy filling make this dessert a crowd-pleaser year-round, whether enjoyed as a comforting treat on a chilly evening or as a refreshing delight during the warmer months.
