Hi friends! Juliette here, from Busy Mom Simple Nutrition. Let’s be honest, between school drop-offs, soccer practice, and that mountain of laundry, sometimes just getting dinner on the table feels like a gold medal win. But guess what? I’ve found a way to sneak a little joy (and a whole lot of good-for-you ingredients) into our day with this Banana Cream Pie Recipe.

I remember the first time I tried to make a Banana Cream Pie Recipe from scratch. Total disaster! The crust was soggy, the filling was lumpy, and the bananas turned brown before anyone even got a slice. I was so frustrated, but I knew there had to be a better way to bring this classic dessert into our busy lives. Through trial and error, and a healthy dose of mom-fueled determination, I’ve perfected a Banana Cream Pie Recipe that’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients.

I realized that focusing on simple, whole ingredients was the key. I swapped out some of the traditional ingredients for healthier alternatives, like using whole wheat flour for the crust and adding a touch of honey instead of refined sugar. The result? A Banana Cream Pie Recipe that my whole family loves, and I feel good about serving.

Now, I’m sharing this sanity-saving Banana Cream Pie Recipe with all of you, my fellow nutrition-seekers. Because let’s face it, we all deserve a little slice of happiness (and a little extra nutrition) without spending hours in the kitchen! So grab your aprons, and let’s get started on this Banana Cream Pie Recipe together!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Trust me, this Banana Cream Pie Recipe ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity!

1 ½ cups whole wheat flour: For a healthier crust with added fiber. If you only have all-purpose, that works too.
½ teaspoon salt: Brings out the flavors in the crust.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes: The key to a flaky crust!
¼ cup ice water: To bind the dough without overworking it.
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix: A shortcut for busy weeknights!
2 cups milk: I use whole milk for extra creaminess and calcium.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and flavor.
3-4 ripe bananas, sliced: The star of the show! Look for bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots.
1 cup heavy cream: For a rich and decadent topping.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar: To sweeten the whipped cream.
Optional: Chocolate shavings or chopped nuts for garnish: A little something extra to make it special.

You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store. No worries if you don’t have whole wheat flour, I use all-purpose for a softer crust in my Banana Cream Pie Recipe. My family gets extra nutrition when I add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the crust. You can find it in the baking aisle of most stores. This Banana Cream Pie Recipe proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Here’s where I used to struggle with my Banana Cream Pie Recipe – learn from my experience!

Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Time-saving tip: You can also use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save even more time!
Roll and Bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Nutrition boost: For a nutty flavor and added fiber, sprinkle the crust with a tablespoon of chopped walnuts or pecans before baking.
Blind Bake: Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the pie weights and parchment paper and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Sensory cue: Your Banana Cream Pie Recipe should smell nourishing by now! While your Banana Cream Pie Recipe is baking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!
Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Dinnertime nutrition win: While the pudding is thickening, chop some fruit for an after-dinner snack.
Assemble the Pie: Spread a thin layer of the pudding mixture over the bottom of the cooled crust. Arrange the sliced bananas over the pudding. Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the bananas, spreading evenly.
Make the Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Common concern: Don’t overbeat the whipped cream, or it will turn into butter!
Top and Chill: Spread the whipped cream over the pie. Garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped nuts, if desired. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Personal timing tips: In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Banana Cream Pie Recipe usually takes about 20 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, but the chilling time is essential for the best flavor and texture. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!

Here’s where I used to struggle with my Banana Cream Pie Recipe – learn from my experience! I often rushed the chilling process, and the pie wouldn’t set properly. Now, I make sure to chill it for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, for the best results. This nutritious Banana Cream Pie Recipe reminds me of another family-healthy favorite: Creamy Reuben Soup.

How We Love to Eat This!

The kids devour this nutritious Banana Cream Pie Recipe when I serve it with a side of fresh berries. The bright colors and juicy flavors make it a complete and satisfying dessert. This Banana Cream Pie Recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I love to make this Banana Cream Pie Recipe for potlucks and family gatherings. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and I love that I can sneak in some extra nutrition without anyone noticing.

For a fun twist, try layering the Banana Cream Pie Recipe with crushed vanilla wafers or granola for added texture. In the summer, I love to top this Banana Cream Pie Recipe with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical vibe. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.

Presentation is key! I like to arrange the banana slices in a decorative pattern and create a beautiful swirl with the whipped cream. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder adds a touch of elegance. This Banana Cream Pie Recipe also makes a great leftover breakfast, shhh don’t tell anyone!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions I get about this Banana Cream Pie Recipe:

Is this Banana Cream Pie Recipe really nutritious enough for growing kids? Absolutely! By using whole wheat flour, milk, and fresh bananas, this pie provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Banana Cream Pie Recipe? Try letting your child help with the preparation. Kids are often more likely to try something they helped make. You can also start by offering a small bite and praising them for trying something new.
Can I meal prep this Banana Cream Pie Recipe for busy weeks ahead? Yes! You can make the crust and filling ahead of time and assemble the pie when you’re ready to serve it. The whipped cream is best made fresh, but you can store it in the refrigerator for a day or two.
Can I make this a no bake banana cream pie? Yes! Replace the baked crust with a store bought graham cracker crust! A Beautiful Mess has a great No-Bake Banana Cream Pie option.
What is the best banana cream pie recipe? That’s subjective! But this one is easy to make and full of flavor. CincyShopper has another tasty, Easy Banana Cream Pie.
How do I keep my banana slices from turning brown in my homemade banana cream pie? Toss the sliced bananas with a little lemon juice before adding them to the pie. This will help prevent oxidation. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out Loaded Cream Cheese Halloween Brownies.
Can I freeze banana cream pie? Freezing is possible, but be aware the texture may change.

Final Thoughts:

This Banana Cream Pie Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a way to bring a little joy and nutrition into our busy lives.

My Banana Cream Pie Nutrition Hacks:

Use whole wheat flour for the crust: Adds fiber and nutrients.
Reduce the sugar: Use honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
Add a boost of protein: Stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed meal to the filling.

Here are some family-tested healthy Banana Cream Pie Recipe variations:

Chocolate Banana Cream Pie: Add cocoa powder to the pudding mixture for a chocolatey twist.
Peanut Butter Banana Cream Pie: Swirl peanut butter into the filling for a delicious and satisfying treat.
Tropical Banana Cream Pie: Add pineapple chunks and coconut flakes for a taste of the tropics.

My son loves the chocolate version, while my daughter prefers the classic Banana Cream Pie Recipe with extra whipped cream. I encourage you to experiment and find your family’s favorite version! I hope this Banana Cream Pie Recipe brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine. Remember, simple nutrition is the key to a happy and healthy family. Now go make some memories in the kitchen! Remember to check out Spend with Pennies easy banana cream pie options as well.

Banana Cream Pie Recipe

Print Recipe

This classic Banana Cream Pie features a flaky crust, creamy banana filling, and a light whipped cream topping. It’s a comforting and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.

Author: Juliette
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 (9-inch) pre-made graham cracker crust
4 ripe bananas, divided
3 cups milk
¾ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Pinch of salt
Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Slice 2 bananas and arrange them evenly on the bottom of the graham cracker crust.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer and thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat. Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the egg yolks to temper them. Then, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
Return to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute more.
Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
Slice the remaining 2 bananas and gently fold them into the custard.
Pour the banana cream filling over the bananas in the crust.
Cover the pie with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
Spread whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie.
Garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired.
Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use whole milk and substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. You can also add a layer of chocolate ganache under the bananas for a chocolate-banana cream pie.