The ultimate in delicious summer desserts transformed into a low calorie, creamy and luscious treat!! I use a graham cracker crust as the base for this Caramel Banana Cream Pie – but you could also try making it with low-fat vanilla or chocolate wafer cookies instead, for a variety of tasty options. The gooey caramel at the base of this pie makes a sinfully delicious partner for the bananas. Make one to take along to your next summer BBQ, and you’re sure to be the hit of the party!!
Caramel Banana Cream Pie
Equipment
- oven
- 1 9-inch pie plate
- 1 food processor
- 1 small bowl
- 1 medium bowl
- 1 plastic bag
Ingredients
- 12 graham cracker squares
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1½ teaspoons unflavored gelatin (or banana gelatin, but it can be hard to find)
- 3 tablespoons boiling water
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 egg yolks
- 1½ cups skim milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
- ¼ cup heavy (whipping) cream
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ cup fat free, sugar free caramel sundae topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and generously spray a 9 inch pie plate with cooking spray.
- In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until they are finely ground; add the butter and 1 tablespoon of water, and pulse until the crumbs start to clump together.
- Press the crumb mixture into bottom and 1/2-inch up the sides of the pie plate.
- Bake in the oven for 10 minutes (you don’t need to weigh it down), then let cool.
To Make the Filling:
- Put the gelatin in a small bowl, add 3 tablespoons of boiling water, and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/3 cup of sugar and the flour.
- In a medium bowl lightly beat the milk and eggs together and add the egg and milk mixture to the saucepan with the flour and sugar – whisk well until the flour and the sugar dissolve.
- Turn the heat on to medium and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, for 10 minutes (until mixture comes to a boil and is starting to thicken.) Remove from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and the gelatin; set aside to cool slightly.
- Spread the 1/4 cup of caramel topping over the graham cracker crust – spreading it all the way out to the edges. Arrange the sliced bananas on top and pour the “pudding” mixture on top, then place the pie in the refrigerator until it has set(about 3 hours).
To Serve:
- Whip the cream with an electric beater until it starts to become foamy and stiffens up a little. Add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar and continue whipping until the cream becomes fairly stiff and holds it shape (this will take several minutes).
- Spoon the whipped cream into a plastic bag, and snip off 1 corner of the bag. Squeeze the whipped cream out of the snipped end of the bag in a decorative pattern around the pie. Top with additional sliced bananas, toasted coconut or cinnamon (if desired).
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
To ensure that your Caramel Banana Cream Pie turns out absolutely perfect, here are some invaluable cooking tips and tricks. These insights will guide you towards achieving the best results and help you avoid common mistakes that can hinder the overall experience.
- Preparing the Caramel Layer:
When making the caramel layer, ensure that you cook the sugar until it reaches a rich amber color. This will give your pie a deep, caramelized flavor. Be cautious not to overcook the caramel, as it can quickly turn bitter. - Proper Banana Selection:
Choose ripe but firm bananas for your pie. They should be sweet and slightly fragrant without being overly mushy. This way, you’ll have slices that hold their shape and provide a pleasant texture in each bite. - Whipped Cream Perfection:
To achieve beautifully whipped cream, make sure your cream and mixing bowl are chilled before whisking. Whip the cream just until soft peaks form to avoid over-whipping, which can result in a grainy texture. - Slicing the Pie:
For neat and clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry before each cut. This will prevent the caramel and cream layers from sticking to the knife, ensuring picture-perfect slices. - Allowing Proper Chilling Time:
It’s crucial to refrigerate the pie for the recommended time to allow it to set properly. This will ensure that the flavors meld together and the pie achieves the desired firmness. Be patient and resist the temptation to cut into it too soon.
Serving Suggestions
Let’s talk about how to elevate your Caramel Banana Cream Pie experience even further. In this section, we’ll explore some delightful serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of this delectable dessert. From recommended sides and garnishes to alternative ways of serving, get ready to take your pie presentation to the next level.
- Perfect Pairings:
To enhance the flavors of your Caramel Banana Cream Pie, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy and cool elements will create a delightful contrast to the rich caramel and banana layers. - Fresh Fruit Medley:
For a refreshing twist, serve the pie alongside a medley of fresh fruits such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The burst of juicy fruitiness will add a lovely balance to the sweetness of the pie. - Drizzles and Sauces:
Elevate the presentation by drizzling a caramel sauce or a chocolate ganache over the pie just before serving. The cascading ribbons of sauce not only make the dessert visually appealing but also intensify the flavor profile. - Creative Crust Variations:
If you want to experiment with the crust, try using a chocolate cookie crust or a crushed nut crust instead of the traditional graham cracker crust. These variations will add an extra layer of complexity and texture to the dessert. - Bite-Sized Treats:
Transform your pie into bite-sized indulgence by creating mini tartlets. Use a mini tart pan or a muffin tin to make individual portions of the Caramel Banana Cream Pie. These petite treats are perfect for parties or when you want to savor the flavors in smaller portions.
FAQs about Caramel Banana Cream Pie
Here are some common questions about Caramel Banana Cream Pie, along with their answers. If you have any uncertainties or curiosity about this delightful dessert, you’ll find the answers below. We’ve got you covered!
Can I make the pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Caramel Banana Cream Pie a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions, refrigerate the pie, and bring it to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
How should I store any leftover pie?
If you have any leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, note that the crust may lose some of its crispness over time.
Can I freeze the pie?
While it’s possible to freeze the pie, it’s best enjoyed fresh. The texture and consistency of the cream and bananas may change upon thawing, affecting the overall taste and appeal.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is the traditional choice, you can experiment with different crusts like shortbread, chocolate cookie, or even a nut-based crust for added variety and flavor.
Can I substitute the bananas with another fruit?
While bananas are the classic choice for this pie, you can certainly get creative and substitute them with other fruits like sliced strawberries, peaches, or even a combination of berries for a unique twist. Just ensure that the fruit you choose complements the caramel and cream flavors.
Get ready to indulge in the heavenly flavors of our Caramel Banana Cream Pie! This dessert masterpiece will leave you craving for more. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delectable creations.