Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Introduction:
Banana Cream Pie is an iconic dessert that captures the essence of home-baked comfort.
Its combination of sweet, creamy filling and crunchy crust offers a delightful contrast that can please any palate.
Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations, this pie promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
3 to 4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
3 cups whole milk
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas
For the Topping:
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional banana slices for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
Combine flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, stirring until the mixture forms a ball.
Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
Roll the dough out to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Place crust in pie plate, trim the excess, and crimp the edges.
Bake the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights and parchment, and bake for another 5-7 minutes until golden. Let cool.
Make the Filling:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt, stirring until the mixture boils and thickens.
Beat eggs in a bowl. Gradually whisk in a portion of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs.
Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
Slice bananas and arrange them in the cooled crust. Pour the hot custard over the bananas. Let cool, then refrigerate until set.
Prepare the Topping:
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the set custard.
Serve:
Garnish with additional banana slices before serving.
Conclusion:
Banana Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that blends simplicity with indulgence.
Its layers of texture and flavor make each bite satisfying, offering a balance of sweetness and richness that can conclude any meal on a high note.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, making Banana Cream Pie is a rewarding endeavor that yields delicious results.
Enjoy this luscious pie as a sweet end to a meal or a special treat during the afternoon.
Its timeless appeal makes it a favorite choice for many dessert lovers.