Banana Cream Pie

Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or a pre-made pie crust) 🍪
1/4 cup granulated sugar 🍚
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
For the Custard Filling:
3 cups whole milk 🥛
3/4 cup granulated sugar 🍚
1/4 cup cornstarch 🌽
1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
4 large egg yolks 🥚
3 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
For the Toppings:
3-4 medium bananas, sliced 🍌
1 cup heavy whipping cream 🍶
2 tablespoons powdered sugar 🍚
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
Optional: Chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts for garnish 🌟
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the Custard Filling:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble (about 8-10 minutes).
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot custard to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
Slowly pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, whisking continuously. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the custard is thick and creamy.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
3️⃣ Assemble the Pie:
Spread a thin layer of custard onto the cooled crust. Add a layer of sliced bananas, then spread half of the remaining custard over the bananas. Repeat with another layer of bananas and the rest of the custard.
Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
4️⃣ Whip the Cream:
In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
5️⃣ Garnish and Serve:
Add additional banana slices, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or nuts as desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: ~4 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8
This Banana Cream Pie is creamy, decadent, and packed with layers of banana goodness. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a delightful treat! 🍌🥧 #