Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Experience slices of pure joy with this Strawberry Banana Cream Pie, a dreamy dessert that brings together ripe bananas, juicy strawberries, silky vanilla pudding, and a cloud of homemade whipped cream, all atop a sweet and crunchy graham cracker crust. Whether you’re craving a taste of summer or searching for the perfect no-bake treat to impress your guests, this pie overdelivers with both flavor and presentation. Each bite offers a medley of colors and textures—fruity freshness, creamy layers, and the familiar comfort of a classic cream pie, making it irresistible for any gathering or special occasion!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 prepared graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Fruit Layer:
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Extra strawberries and banana slices for garnish
How to Make Strawberry Banana Cream Pie
Step 1: Layer Bananas and Strawberries
Start by arranging the banana slices evenly over the bottom of your graham cracker crust. This not only forms a creamy, sweet foundation but also ensures that every slice contains a bit of banana in every forkful. Next, layer the sliced strawberries over the bananas, creating a colorful and juicy base that sparkles as soon as you cut into the pie.
Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk. Focus on a brisk, steady whisk for about two minutes, or until the pudding thickens to a beautiful, spoonable consistency. This luscious layer will set up into silky goodness as it chills.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Pudding Layer
Pour the prepared pudding right over the strawberry and banana layers. Use a spatula to spread it gently but evenly, making sure the pudding seeps down around the fruit for that perfect creamy hug between layers. This step locks in moisture and brings dreamy richness to the Strawberry Banana Cream Pie.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form—a soft, cloud-like whip that beautifully tops your pie and really elevates its homemade charm.
Step 5: Spread the Whipped Cream
Dollop the whipped cream over the pudding layer and gently spread it all the way to the edges. This final creamy crown brings lightness to every bite and looks absolutely stunning when garnished.
Step 6: Garnish Like a Pro
Finish your masterpiece by artfully arranging extra strawberry slices and banana coins on top. Take a few minutes to have fun with this—think concentric rings, a scattering of fruit, or even a cheeky spiral for extra visual appeal.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours. This step is essential for allowing the layers to set, the flavors to mingle, and the pie to slice beautifully. Trust us, waiting is the hardest part, but it’s well worth it!
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Cream Pie
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing Strawberry Banana Cream Pie, simplicity shines. Arrange extra banana slices and strawberries in a beautiful pattern over the whipped cream, or add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a little flair. The garnishes not only elevate the look but also offer juicy and sweet bites right on top.
Side Dishes
Keep it light and let the pie be the star! Pair your slice with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a cold glass of milk, or a tangy fruit salad to balance the sweetness. For summer gatherings, consider serving it alongside a platter of mixed berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Strawberry Banana Cream Pie presentation to the next level by serving individual slices on chilled plates, topped with a dollop of extra whipped cream and a mint sprig. Mini pie versions in mason jars or parfait glasses also make for a fun and portable take on the classic, perfect for parties or picnics!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If your pie survives the first serving, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or a pie dome and store in the refrigerator. Enjoy within 1–2 days for the best flavor and texture—the bananas do tend to brown a bit over time, but the pie will still be delicious!
Freezing
While the Strawberry Banana Cream Pie is technically freezable, freezing can change the texture of the bananas and whipped cream. If you do freeze, wrap slices well, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving. For optimal results, enjoy this pie fresh.
Reheating
This lovely dessert is best served chilled, straight from the fridge—no reheating necessary! In fact, serving it cold is part of what makes it so refreshing and satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade crust instead of a store-bought graham cracker crust?
Absolutely! A homemade graham cracker crust adds even more love and buttery flavor to your Strawberry Banana Cream Pie. Simply combine crushed graham crackers, a bit of sugar, and melted butter, then press into your pie plate and chill before filling.
What’s the best way to keep bananas from turning brown?
To minimize browning, assemble the pie as close to serving time as possible and make sure the banana slices are well covered by pudding and whipped cream. For extra insurance, you can brush banana slices lightly with lemon juice before layering.
Can I substitute whipped topping for homemade whipped cream?
Yes, if you’re pressed for time, store-bought whipped topping works in a pinch. However, making your own whipped cream with heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla gives Strawberry Banana Cream Pie an irresistible, fresh flavor.
Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?
It sure is! Use a dairy-free pudding mix, plant-based milk, and non-dairy whipped topping to create a delicious dairy-free version. Just make sure your store-bought crust is dairy-free as well.
How far in advance can I make Strawberry Banana Cream Pie?
For the freshest results, assemble your pie the day you plan to serve it, allowing at least 3 hours for chilling. You can prep the crust, slice the fruit, and make the pudding ahead of time, then assemble closer to serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for that perfect crowd-pleaser, look no further than Strawberry Banana Cream Pie. Each slice is a little celebration of fruit, creaminess, and nostalgia, guaranteed to disappear quickly! Give it a try and watch it become a favorite at your table—there’s just something magical about sharing such a simple, refreshing dessert with family and friends.
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Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Strawberry Banana Cream Pie, a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion. Layers of fresh bananas and strawberries nestled in a vanilla pudding filling, topped with luscious whipped cream, all in a graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 prepared graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Fruit Layer:
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Extra strawberries and banana slices for garnish
Instructions
- Arrange Fruit: Place banana slices on the bottom of the crust, followed by sliced strawberries.
- Mix Pudding: Whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened, then pour over the fruit.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, beat cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Layer Cream: Spread whipped cream over the pudding layer.
- Garnish: Top with extra fruit slices.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Enhance with chocolate sauce or crushed graham crackers for added flavor.
- Best enjoyed on the day it’s made to maintain banana freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
