Banana Cream Pie Extravaganza: A Heavenly Twist on a Classic Dessert

Banana Cream Pie is a beloved dessert that has been a staple at family gatherings and holiday tables for generations. Its creamy custard filling, tender banana slices, and flaky crust create a comforting, sweet treat that’s hard to resist. But why settle for ordinary when you can elevate this classic dessert into something truly extraordinary? Enter Banana Cream Pie Extravaganza — a decadent, indulgent version that takes the traditional banana cream pie to new heights of flavor and texture.

With a rich, silky custard, perfectly ripe bananas, and a crunchy homemade graham cracker crust, this upgraded banana cream pie features a surprise twist with a layer of whipped cream cheese filling and a golden, caramelized topping. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something spectacular, this Banana Cream Pie Extravaganza will impress everyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12-14 crackers)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Banana Cream Pie Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Whipped Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup toasted coconut (optional)
• Caramel sauce or dulce de leche (optional)

Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to ensure it’s evenly compacted.

Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Banana Cream Pie Filling
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt. Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and begins to boil, about 5-7 minutes. Once it starts to bubble, continue whisking for another 2 minutes to ensure the custard is smooth and thickened.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until the butter is melted and the custard is smooth.

Slice the ripe bananas and arrange them evenly at the bottom of the cooled graham cracker crust. Pour the custard mixture over the bananas, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream Cheese Layer
While the pie is chilling, prepare the whipped cream cheese layer. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

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