Easy Banana Cream Pie
Looking for a dessert that’s both creamy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen? Easy Banana Cream Pie is your answer! This classic treat is layered with fresh bananas, a smooth vanilla pudding filling, and topped with fluffy whipped topping, all nestled in a buttery pie crust. Whether you opt for a flaky pastry crust or a no-bake graham cracker crust, this pie is guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Cream Pie
- Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal steps, this pie comes together effortlessly.
- Perfectly Creamy: The combination of vanilla pudding and whipped topping creates the perfect creamy texture.
- Versatile: You can make it with a traditional baked crust or a no-bake graham cracker crust.
- Family Favorite: The sweet banana slices paired with the creamy filling make it a dessert everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 9-inch pie crust (baked and cooled)
- For a baked crust: You can use store-bought or make your own.
- For a no-bake graham cracker crust: Combine 6 tablespoons melted butter, 1 ½ cups graham crumbs, and ¼ cup granulated sugar.
- 2 bananas (plus extra for decorating)
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix (3.5 oz each)
- 2 cups frozen whipped topping (thawed and divided)
How to Make Easy Banana Cream Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
For a baked pie crust:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Roll your pie dough into a 12-inch circle and line a 9-inch pie plate.
- Fold the edges under and crimp as desired.
- Poke the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbles.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with dried beans or pie weights.
- Bake for 15 minutes, remove the parchment and beans, then bake for another 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let the crust cool completely before filling.
For a no-bake graham cracker crust:
- Combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and granulated sugar in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Slice the bananas and arrange them over the cooled pie crust.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold whole milk until smooth. Let it sit for 3 minutes to thicken.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of thawed whipped topping.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the sliced bananas.
Step 3: Chill & Assemble
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Before serving, top with the remaining whipped topping and decorate with additional banana slices on top.
- Optional: Drizzle with caramel or chocolate shavings for extra flavor and decoration.
Serving Tips & Variations
- Topping Ideas: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce, shaved chocolate, or chopped nuts to elevate the pie.
- Make Ahead: This pie is perfect for preparing in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
- No Banana Lovers? You can substitute the bananas with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches for a different twist.
Why This Recipe is So Popular
This Easy Banana Cream Pie is a beloved dessert for its classic flavor and simple preparation. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing for a holiday feast, it’s a sweet treat that never fails to impress. The fresh bananas, rich pudding, and light whipped topping create a delightful texture that everyone loves.
Ready to Make It?
Grab your ingredients, and let this Easy Banana Cream Pie become your new favorite dessert! It’s easy to make, sure to please, and the perfect end to any meal. 🍌🥧reminder that sometimes, taking a shortcut can lead to a destination that’s just as delightful as the traditional path.
Easy Banana Cream Pie
Ingredients
- 1 9″ pie crust baked and cooled
- 2 bananas plus extra for decorating
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3.5 oz each
- 2 cups frozen whipped topping thawed
- and divided
Instructions
- If making a pastry crust, preheat the oven to 425°F. Roll the pie crust into a 12-inch circle. Line a (9″) pie plate with the pastry and fold the edges under. Crimp as desired. Poke the bottom of the crust with a fork.
- Cut an 11-inch circle of parchment paper and gently place in the pie crust and fill it with dried beans or pie weights. Bake for crust 15 minutes, remove the parchment and beans/weights and then bake for an additional 12 to 15 minutes or until golden.
- Cool completely.
- For the Filling: Slice the bananas and arrange over cooled pie crust.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let rest for 3 minutes to thicken. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping.
- Spread the pudding mixture over the bananas. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Top with remaining whipped topping and decorate with banana slices and caramel or chocolate shavings if desired.
- For a No Bake Graham Crust, combine 6 tablespoons melted butter, 1 ½ cups graham crumbs, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Press into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Chill for at least 15 minutes before filling