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Amazing 5-Ingredient Easy Banana Cream Pie

banana cream pie

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You will make an easy, classic Banana Cream Pie that tastes just like the old-fashioned version. This recipe focuses on achieving a rich, creamy filling and a perfect crust. We provide steps for a traditional baked crust, but you can easily use a no-bake option for extra speed.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (14.1 ounce) package pre-made graham cracker crust or Nilla Wafer crust
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • Whipped cream or meringue for topping

Instructions

  1. If making a traditional crust, prepare and bake it according to package directions, then let it cool completely.
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
  3. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until fully combined.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk, until the mixture thickens significantly and begins to bubble. This takes patience; keep stirring to prevent scorching.
  5. Once boiling, cook for 1 minute more, still stirring. Remove from heat immediately.
  6. Whisk in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter melts completely and the filling is smooth.
  7. Pour about one-third of the hot custard into a separate bowl. Whisk vigorously to temper the yolks slightly. Then, pour the tempered custard back into the saucepan with the remaining custard. Whisk well to combine everything fully.
  8. Arrange a single layer of sliced bananas on the bottom of the cooled pie crust.
  9. Pour the entire custard filling evenly over the bananas.
  10. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pie filling to prevent a skin from forming.
  11. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is completely set.
  12. Before serving, top the chilled pie generously with whipped cream or meringue.

Notes

  • Use very ripe, but not overly mushy, bananas for the best flavor.
  • For a no-bake crust, simply press a mixture of crushed wafers/crackers and melted butter into the pie plate and chill thoroughly.
  • Chef Tariq reminds you to stir constantly when cooking the custard to avoid lumps and burning the bottom.
  • If you use meringue, spread it over the cold filling and bake briefly until lightly browned.

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