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Caramel Banana Cream Pie

caramel banana cream pie - featured image

This easy homemade caramel banana cream pie features layers of ripe bananas, silky pastry cream, and a rich caramel drizzle in a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for parties or a comforting treat, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that looks impressive but is simple to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (200g)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (80g)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (25g)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60g)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 cups whole milk (480ml)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (30g)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240ml)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Additional caramel sauce, for drizzling
  • Extra banana slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth.
  4. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
  5. For the caramel, cook granulated sugar over medium heat in a clean saucepan, stirring gently until melted and deep amber in color.
  6. Add butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in heavy cream (it will bubble), stirring until smooth.
  7. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool to room temperature.
  8. For the filling, whisk together milk, egg yolks, cornstarch, and sugar in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
  9. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Transfer to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface. Cool to room temperature.
  10. Slice bananas (about 1/4-inch thick). Arrange a layer over the cooled crust.
  11. Spread half of the caramel sauce over the bananas.
  12. Pour and spread the custard filling evenly. Add another layer of bananas, then drizzle more caramel.
  13. Chill the pie for at least 3 hours (overnight is better).
  14. Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  15. Spread or pipe whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with banana slices and extra caramel drizzle.
  16. Slice with a sharp knife and serve cold. Wipe knife between slices for cleaner cuts.

Notes

For best results, use ripe bananas with brown spots. Chill the pie thoroughly before serving for clean slices and melded flavors. If making ahead, add whipped cream just before serving. For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers; for dairy-free, substitute coconut cream and vegan butter. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a flavor boost.

Nutrition

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