Grandma’s Banana Cream Pie Recipe: A Timeless Classic

There’s nothing quite like Grandma’s Banana Cream Pie. A cherished dessert with a history of bringing smiles and sweet satisfaction, this pie combines the rich flavors of bananas, creamy custard, and a flaky crust into a timeless treat. In this article, we explore Grandma’s Banana Cream Pie recipe, delving into the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for creating this beloved classic.

Ingredients

To make Grandma’s Banana Cream Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
  • 1/4 cup ice water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 ripe bananas (sliced)

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Banana slices (for garnish)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Crust

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter.
  2. Cut in the Butter: Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Do not overwork the dough.
  4. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press it into the dish, trim any excess, and crimp the edges.
  6. Blind Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
  2. Mix Sugar and Cornstarch: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch.
  3. Combine Yolks and Milk: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add 1/2 cup of the hot milk to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them. Then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
  4. Thicken the Mixture: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
  5. Cool Slightly: Allow the custard to cool slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

  1. Layer Bananas: Arrange a layer of sliced bananas on the bottom of the cooled pie crust.
  2. Add the Custard: Pour the custard over the bananas, spreading it evenly.
  3. Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

  1. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  2. Top the Pie: Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
  3. Garnish: Decorate with additional banana slices if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Banana Cream Pie

  • Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are sweeter and add better flavor to the pie.
  • Chill the Custard: Allow the custard to cool slightly before pouring it into the crust to avoid a soggy bottom.
  • Serve Fresh: For best results, serve the pie within a day or two to enjoy the optimal texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Banana Cream Pie is a dessert that brings warmth and joy with every bite. With its combination of flaky crust, creamy filling, and fresh bananas, this pie is a delightful homage to traditional baking. Follow this recipe to recreate the magic of Grandma’s kitchen and enjoy a slice of nostalgia that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.




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