Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe

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Few desserts capture the essence of comfort and nostalgia quite like a Banana Cream Pie. With its dreamy layers of velvety vanilla pudding, whipped cream, and fresh banana slices nestled into a buttery crust, this pie is a timeless treat that feels like home with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just to satisfy a personal craving, this dessert brings an old-fashioned charm with very little effort.

What makes this Easy Banana Cream Pie truly special is how quickly it comes together. Using simple ingredients—many of which you likely already have in your kitchen—you can create a luscious dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours. It’s creamy, light, and perfectly sweet, offering just the right balance of texture and flavor with every forkful.

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Ingredients for this Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe

• 1 pre-made graham cracker or shortbread pie crust
• 3 large ripe bananas
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 ½ cups whipped topping (plus extra for garnish)
• Optional: crushed vanilla wafers or graham crumbs for topping
• Optional: 1 tbsp brown sugar for a hint of caramelized sweetness

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Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set. This will give you a rich and creamy foundation for your pie filling.

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Step 2: Fold in Whipped Topping

Once the pudding has set, gently fold in 1 ½ cups of whipped topping using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix—this step adds lightness and a mousse-like texture to the filling.

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Step 3: Slice the Bananas

Peel and slice the bananas into rounds about ¼ inch thick. To prevent browning, you can lightly coat the slices with a bit of lemon juice, but this is optional.

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Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Line the bottom of the pie crust with a single layer of banana slices. Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the bananas and spread it evenly. Add another layer of banana slices, then top with the remaining pudding mixture. Smooth the surface with a spatula.

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Step 5: Chill the Pie

Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set. This helps all the layers meld together and ensures a firm slice when serving.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, spread or pipe additional whipped topping on top of the pie. Arrange a few fresh banana slices for decoration and sprinkle with crushed vanilla wafers or a touch of brown sugar for added texture and flavor.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following nutritional values are estimates per serving (1 slice, assuming 8 slices per pie):

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 310mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

Note: Values may vary based on the type of crust or whipped topping used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of crust works best for banana cream pie?

A pre-made graham cracker crust is classic and easy, but a shortbread or vanilla wafer crust also works beautifully.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade vanilla custard, it will elevate the flavor, though it will take more time.

How do I keep bananas from browning in the pie?

You can lightly brush banana slices with lemon juice or assemble the pie just before serving for the freshest look.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it the day before serving. Just wait to garnish with fresh bananas until right before serving to keep them looking fresh.

Is it okay to use frozen bananas?

Frozen bananas are not ideal for this recipe, as they become too mushy when thawed and can affect texture.

What’s a good whipped topping substitute?

You can use homemade whipped cream or dairy-free alternatives like coconut whipped topping.

Can I add other fruit to this pie?

Sure! Sliced strawberries pair nicely with bananas and can be added in layers or as garnish.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely. It’s a sweet, soft, and creamy dessert that most kids love—and they can help with the layering too!

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