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Homemade Banana Cream Pie Recipe

4.9 from 85 reviews

This Homemade Banana Cream Pie features a flaky, buttery pie crust filled with a rich and creamy custard, layered with fresh banana slices, and topped with fluffy homemade whipped cream. The pie crust is blind baked to a perfect golden brown, and the custard is made from scratch using egg yolks, milk, and cornstarch for a smooth texture. This classic dessert is ideal for banana lovers and can be prepared ahead, making it perfect for special occasions or indulgent family treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust

  • 1 unbaked pie crust (all butter pie crust recommended)
  • Optional egg wash: 1 large egg white beaten with 1 Tablespoon milk

Custard Filling

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

Bananas and Toppings

  • 4 yellow bananas (not super ripe)
  • Optional: sprinkle of ground cinnamon

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 1 cup (240ml) cold heavy cream
  • 2 Tablespoons (15g) confectioners’ or granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare pie dough ahead: Make the pie dough at least 2 hours before baking. Chill the dough in the refrigerator to allow it to firm up for better handling and to prevent shrinkage during baking.
  2. Roll out the chilled dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle and fit it carefully into a 9-inch pie dish. Fold excess dough over the edges to create a thick rim and crimp or flute the edges securely. Chill the shaped dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat and blind bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the chilled crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for 15-16 minutes until edges begin to brown.
  4. Remove weights and finish baking: Carefully remove parchment and weights, prick the bottom crust, optionally brush edges with egg wash for shine, then bake another 14-15 minutes until bottom is golden and cooked through. Cool completely on a wire rack.
  5. Make custard filling: Whisk egg yolks and cornstarch together. Heat milk, cream, sugar, and salt in a saucepan until simmering. Temper yolks by whisking in a small amount of hot milk mixture, then combine fully with the hot milk while whisking continuously. Cook for 1 minute until thickened. Remove from heat, add vanilla and butter, whisk smooth, and cover surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation. Cool for 15 minutes.
  6. Assemble banana layer: Slice 2-3 bananas and arrange them in the cooled pie shell. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
  7. Add custard filling: Spread the slightly warm custard evenly over the banana layer. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the custard and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 1 day to set.
  8. Prepare whipped cream topping: Just before serving, whip cold heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until medium peaks form — about 3-4 minutes.
  9. Finish the pie: Pipe or spread the whipped cream atop the chilled custard. Slice remaining bananas and garnish the top immediately before serving to prevent browning. Serve chilled.
  10. Storage: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough helps prevent shrinking and makes it easier to handle.
  • Blind baking the crust ensures a crisp bottom and prevents sogginess.
  • Tempering the egg yolks carefully will avoid scrambling and ensure a smooth custard.
  • Using plastic wrap directly on the custard and whipped cream prevents undesirable skin formation.
  • Bananas should not be overly ripe for best texture and flavor.
  • Whipped cream and banana garnish are best added immediately before serving.
  • This pie can be made a day ahead for convenience.

Keywords: banana cream pie, homemade pie, custard pie, easy dessert, classic American dessert