Description
You can make this easy banana cream pie recipe for a truly decadent, family favorite dessert. This version features a rich, velvety custard filling and is perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (9 inch) pre-made graham cracker crust
- 4 ripe medium bananas, sliced
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
- Optional: 1/4 cup powdered sugar for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the instant vanilla pudding according to package directions, using the cold milk. Whisk constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Let the pudding mixture stand for 5 minutes to set slightly.
- Arrange a single layer of sliced bananas evenly over the bottom of the graham cracker crust.
- Pour half of the thickened pudding mixture over the bananas. Top with a second layer of banana slices. Pour the remaining pudding over the second layer of bananas.
- Gently spread half of the thawed whipped topping over the pudding layer, sealing the edges.
- Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is completely firm. This step is key for a perfect slice.
- Before serving, top the pie with the remaining whipped topping. If desired, dust lightly with powdered sugar.
- Slice and serve this simple banana dessert immediately after topping.
Notes
- For the best flavor and texture, use bananas that are ripe but still firm; avoid overly soft ones that can turn mushy.
- If you prefer a from-scratch pie filling, you will need to cook a vanilla custard base on the stovetop until thick, then chill it before assembling.
- This recipe is a great quick dessert idea, requiring no oven time.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg