Banana Cream Pie Bars
Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes
Delight in the creamy, dreamy goodness of Banana Cream Pie Bars, a perfect treat for any occasion.
These Banana Cream Pie Bars combine the classic flavors of banana cream pie into a convenient bar format, making them perfect for parties or a sweet treat at home. Each bite offers a luscious filling, a buttery crust, and a light whipped topping that will remind you of your favorite dessert.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich banana flavor complemented by a creamy filling
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
- A delightful twist on the classic banana cream pie
A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Banana Cream Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert that dazzles at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a family get-together, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these bars are sure to impress. Their creamy texture and rich banana flavor make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Not only are these bars delicious, but they are also incredibly easy to prepare. With a straightforward recipe that requires minimal ingredients, you can whip them up in no time. Their convenience makes them ideal for busy lifestyles while still delivering a homemade touch that friends and family will appreciate.
The Magic of Bananas
Bananas are not just tasty; they also bring numerous health benefits to the table. Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins, bananas contribute to heart health and digestive wellness. By incorporating fresh bananas into this dessert, you not only enhance the flavor but also add a nutritional boost that makes indulging a little less guilty.
The combination of ripe bananas with the creamy filling creates a delightful contrast of textures. Each bite provides a burst of banana goodness that is both satisfying and nostalgic, reminiscent of classic banana cream pie but in a convenient bar form. This twist offers a fun and modern take on a beloved dessert.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Cream Pie Bars
To achieve the best results, ensure that your bananas are perfectly ripe – they should be speckled with brown spots for optimal sweetness and flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of the bars and provide a luscious filling that melts in your mouth. Avoid using overly ripe bananas, as they can become mushy and affect the texture.
For a more decadent experience, feel free to experiment with the toppings. While whipped cream is a classic choice, consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added flavor and crunch. These small adjustments can elevate your Banana Cream Pie Bars to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
For the Filling
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
Make the Filling
In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and whisk in the egg yolks.
Prepare the Topping
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled banana filling and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
Serve
Cut into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious Banana Cream Pie Bars!
Enjoy these bars as a delightful dessert at your next gathering!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
To keep your Banana Cream Pie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3-4 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert option. Just be sure to cover the bars with plastic wrap or foil to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
For serving, these bars are best enjoyed chilled. You can cut them into squares and serve them directly from the pan or plate them individually for a more elegant presentation. Garnishing with additional chocolate shavings or fresh banana slices can make for a beautiful display that’s perfect for entertaining.
Variations to Try
If you want to mix things up, consider adding other fruits to your filling. Sliced strawberries or blueberries can complement the banana flavor beautifully and add a pop of color. Just be sure to adjust the sugar levels according to the sweetness of the additional fruits to keep the balance right.
For those who prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed gluten-free cookies or even almond flour mixed with coconut oil. This keeps the dessert accessible to those with dietary restrictions while still maintaining the delightful taste and texture that everyone loves.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought pie crust instead?
Yes, you can substitute a store-bought pie crust for a quicker option.
→ How long will these bars last in the refrigerator?
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or an alternative crust to make it gluten-free.
→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream for a dairy-free version.
Banana Cream Pie Bars
Delight in the creamy, dreamy goodness of Banana Cream Pie Bars, a perfect treat for any occasion.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
For the Filling
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and whisk in the egg yolks. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and layer the banana slices on top. Allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled banana filling and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
Cut into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious Banana Cream Pie Bars!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g