Banana cream pie is a classic dessert that combines the rich, silky texture of cream filling with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Marie Callender’s version of this timeless treat is beloved for its perfectly balanced flavors and luscious, creamy consistency.
Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic slice of comfort or an impressive homemade dessert for your next gathering, this recipe brings the best of both worlds. It’s simple enough for bakers of all experience levels yet delivers a bakery-quality pie that’s sure to please family and friends.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process of recreating Marie Callender’s famous banana cream pie in your own kitchen. From gathering the ingredients to tips for the perfect crust and presentation, you’ll have everything you need to master this decadent dessert.
So grab your apron, and let’s get started on making a pie that’s creamy, dreamy, and absolutely unforgettable!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This banana cream pie recipe is a delightful blend of creamy custard, fresh bananas, and a flaky pie crust. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent without being overly complicated to make.
The luscious filling has just the right amount of sweetness and vanilla flavor, which complements the bananas beautifully. Plus, the whipped cream topping adds a light and airy finish, making every bite a perfect balance of textures.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it by using homemade crust or a store-bought one, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings like toasted nuts or chocolate shavings.
It’s a crowd-pleaser for all occasions, from family dinners to holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Optional: toasted pecans or chocolate shavings for garnish
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Cooling rack
- Plastic wrap
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: If you haven’t already, pre-bake your 9-inch pie crust according to package instructions or your favorite homemade crust recipe. Allow it to cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Slice the bananas: Peel and slice the bananas into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the banana slices evenly over the bottom of the cooled pie crust.
- Make the filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Cook the custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. This usually takes about 7-9 minutes.
- Temper the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling. Then, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
- Finish the custard: Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the custard is thick and smooth. Remove from heat, then stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the warm custard over the banana slices in the pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the pie surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Make the whipped topping: Before serving, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar in a chilled bowl with a mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add the finishing touch: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the set custard layer. Garnish with optional toasted pecans or chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice the pie with a sharp knife, serve chilled, and savor each creamy, banana-filled bite.
Tips & Variations
For the creamiest filling, use whole milk or even a mix of whole milk and cream. Avoid low-fat milk as it can affect the texture.
If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Enhance the flavor by adding a tablespoon of banana liqueur or a dash of cinnamon to the custard.
Try a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie crust for a different texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 35 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
Serving Suggestions
Banana cream pie is best served chilled to enjoy its creamy texture. Consider pairing it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, to complement the sweetness.
If you want to elevate your dessert experience, serve each slice with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a few fresh berries on the side. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also makes an excellent companion for those extra indulgent moments.
For a festive touch, sprinkle some shaved chocolate or crushed toffee bits on top of the whipped cream just before serving. This adds a delightful crunch and a bit of sophistication to your presentation.
Conclusion
Recreating the beloved Marie Callender banana cream pie at home is a rewarding experience that brings the warmth of a classic dessert to your table. With its smooth custard, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped topping, this pie is an irresistible treat for any occasion.
The recipe is approachable yet impressive, making it perfect for bakers new and experienced alike.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a slice of homemade comfort that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Whether for a holiday celebration or a simple weekend indulgence, this banana cream pie is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.
For more delicious recipes to try, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, and Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.
📖 Recipe Card: Banana Cream Pie Marie Callender Recipe
Description: A creamy and delicious banana cream pie with a flaky crust and smooth custard filling. Perfectly balanced sweetness with fresh bananas and whipped topping.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks, beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, flour, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook over medium heat until thickened.
- Temper egg yolks with hot mixture, then return all to pan and cook 2 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
- Arrange banana slices in pie crust.
- Pour custard over bananas and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over chilled pie before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 42 g
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