There’s something irresistibly charming about an old fashioned banana cream pie that just brings me back to my childhood. I remember sitting at my grandmother’s kitchen table, the sweet aroma of ripe bananas and vanilla wafting through the air as she whipped up her famous pie. It’s like a hug in dessert form! The rich flavor of fresh bananas combined with that creamy, dreamy custard creates a delightful treat that’s both comforting and indulgent. I love how each slice not only looks beautiful with its golden crust and luscious filling but also tastes like a warm memory. Trust me, once you dig into this pie, you’ll understand why it’s been a beloved classic for generations. It’s the perfect dessert to share with family and friends, bringing smiles and happy memories with every bite!
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 ripe bananas (the riper, the better for that sweet flavor!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, whipped topping)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (to sweeten the custard)
- 1/3 cup cornstarch (this is what thickens our custard)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (just a pinch to balance the sweetness)
- 4 large egg yolks (richness and color come from these beauties)
- 2 tablespoons butter (adds a nice richness to the filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that classic flavor note)
- 1 pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
How to Prepare Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
Making an old fashioned banana cream pie is easier than you might think! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert to impress everyone. Just remember, patience is key—especially when it comes to chilling time. So, let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes, so keep an eye on it!
- While that’s heating, in a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large egg yolks until they’re smooth. This step is crucial—don’t rush it! You want those yolks perfectly blended.
- Once the milk mixture is bubbling, take a ladle and slowly pour some of the hot mixture into the bowl with the egg yolks, whisking constantly. This gently warms the yolks. Then, return everything back to the saucepan.
- Add in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is silky and smooth. It should smell heavenly!
- Now, slice your 4 ripe bananas and layer them in the pre-baked pie crust. Pour the warm custard over the bananas, making sure they’re all nicely covered.
- Finally, chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. I know it’s tough to wait, but this step is essential for the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
- It’s a breeze to make, with simple ingredients that come together effortlessly.
- The flavor is a delightful balance of sweet bananas and creamy custard that dances on your taste buds.
- It brings a wave of nostalgia, reminding you of warm family gatherings and cherished moments.
- Each slice is visually stunning, with its golden crust and luscious filling, making it perfect for any occasion.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike—everyone loves a classic!
- It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
- Top it with freshly whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence that makes it even more special!
Tips for Success with Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
Getting the perfect old fashioned banana cream pie takes just a few little tricks, and I’m here to share them with you! Trust me, you’ll want to keep these in your back pocket for the best results.
- Choose the right bananas: Use ripe bananas that are speckled with brown spots. They’re sweeter and more flavorful, making all the difference in your pie!
- Whisk gently: When incorporating the egg yolks, be gentle but thorough. This helps prevent scrambling and ensures a smooth custard.
- Cool it down: After cooking the custard, let it cool slightly before pouring it over the bananas. This prevents the bananas from getting mushy and maintains their lovely texture.
- Chill, chill, chill: Don’t skip the chilling time! Four hours is a must for the custard to fully set and for the flavors to develop. It’s well worth the wait!
- Top it off: Just before serving, whip up some heavy cream and dollop it on top of each slice. It adds a delightful texture and makes the dessert even more indulgent.
- Keep it covered: If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh in the fridge. This will help maintain that creamy texture.
With these tips, you’re sure to create a banana cream pie that’s a showstopper at any gathering. Happy baking!
FAQ About Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
Got questions about making this delightful old fashioned banana cream pie? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my best tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this pie is perfect for making a day in advance. Just prepare it, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully!
How should I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, I know!), simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days, but trust me, it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two!
Can I substitute the bananas?
While bananas are the star of this pie, you can experiment with other fruits if you’re feeling adventurous! Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change. For instance, using fresh strawberries or peaches can create a delicious twist, but the classic banana flavor is irreplaceable!
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
No worries! You can use all-purpose flour as a substitute. Just use about 1/4 cup of flour instead of 1/3 cup of cornstarch. The custard might be a tad less thick, but it will still be creamy and delicious!
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Of course! A store-bought pie crust is a fantastic time-saver. Just make sure it’s pre-baked before adding your banana and custard layers. It’ll save you some time and still taste amazing!
Why did my custard turn out runny?
If your custard isn’t thickening as it should, it could be due to not cooking it long enough or not whisking the egg yolks properly. Make sure to stir continuously and keep an eye on it until it starts to bubble and thicken. Don’t rush the process!
With these FAQs, I hope you feel more confident in making your own old fashioned banana cream pie. It’s such a rewarding dessert, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!
Nutritional Information for Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
Now, I know you might be curious about the nutritional content of this delightful old fashioned banana cream pie! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated values per slice. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use and how big you slice your pie!
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
These delicious slices are rich in flavors and textures, and while they do pack a bit of indulgence, they’re absolutely worth it! Enjoy every creamy bite guilt-free, knowing you’re treating yourself to a classic dessert that brings so much joy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
Storing your old fashioned banana cream pie properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious for as long as possible! Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigerate: If you have any leftovers (which I hope you do, so you can enjoy it again!), cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps prevent it from absorbing any other odors in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days.
- Freezing: While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the whole pie, you can freeze individual slices! Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Just remember, the texture may change a bit once thawed.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply remove it from the container and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This way, it’ll retain its creamy texture without getting mushy.
As for reheating, there’s really no need for that! This pie is best served chilled, so just slice it up and enjoy straight from the fridge. If you’d like to warm up your whipped cream, you can give it a quick whip before serving, but keep the pie cool for the best experience!
Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie
When it comes to enjoying your old fashioned banana cream pie, the right accompaniments can really elevate the experience! Here are some delightful suggestions to consider:
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pie. The rich flavors of the coffee complement the creamy custard, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. The cold creaminess of the ice cream against the smooth pie is simply divine!
- Whipped Cream: While you’ll likely top your pie with whipped cream, serving a little extra on the side allows everyone to indulge as they please. It’s an extra layer of richness that just feels luxurious.
- Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh strawberries or raspberries can add a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness of the pie. Plus, they look gorgeous on the plate!
- Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only makes for a beautiful garnish but also adds a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens up each slice.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For those chocolate lovers out there, consider drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over the pie or on the plate. It adds a luxurious touch that pairs wonderfully with bananas.
These serving suggestions will help you create a delightful dessert experience that brings out the best in your old fashioned banana cream pie. Enjoy every last bite with your favorite accompaniments!
Print
Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie: 7 Comforting Bites to Savor
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert with rich banana flavor and creamy texture.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat.
- Stir until mixture thickens and starts to boil.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually add some hot mixture to yolks, then return to saucepan.
- Add butter and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
- Slice bananas and layer them in the pie crust.
- Pour the custard over the bananas.
- Chill pie for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for best flavor.
- Top with whipped cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: old fashioned banana cream pie











