Print

Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pie From Scratch

A generous slice of banana cream pie showing custard, banana slices, and a tall topping of whipped cream.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

You can make this classic, creamy banana cream pie from scratch. It features a flaky homemade crust, rich vanilla custard, fresh banana slices, and a light whipped cream topping. This is a family favorite dessert perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 recipe for homemade pie crust (or 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 ripe, medium bananas, sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare your pie crust according to your favorite recipe for a single 9-inch crust. Bake until golden brown, then let it cool completely.
  2. To make the creamy banana custard filling, whisk the egg yolks, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt together in a medium saucepan until smooth.
  3. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until fully combined.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture thickens significantly and comes to a boil. Let it boil for one minute, still stirring.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Whisk in the butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the butter melts completely and the custard is smooth.
  6. Pour the hot custard into the cooled pie crust. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is completely set.
  7. Once the custard is chilled and set, arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the top of the custard layer.
  8. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This makes your whipped cream topping.
  9. Spread or pipe the whipped cream topping over the layer of bananas.
  10. Chill the finished banana cream pie for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use a Nilla wafer crust instead of a traditional pastry crust.
  • If you want to add texture, sprinkle a small amount of toasted coconut over the whipped cream topping.
  • Slice the bananas just before assembling the pie to minimize browning.
  • This pie is best eaten within 24 hours for the freshest banana flavor.

Nutrition