Grandma’s amazing banana pie recipe has been a family favorite for generations. This classic dessert is a perfect combination of creamy custard, fresh bananas, and a crunchy cookie crust. It’s no wonder why this recipe has stood the test of time and is still loved by all who try it.

Many people have tried to replicate Grandma’s recipe, but few have been able to capture the same delicious taste. The secret to her pie’s success lies in the use of fresh ingredients and a homemade custard that is light and fluffy. The cookie crust adds the perfect amount of sweetness and texture to the pie, making it a crowd-pleaser at every gathering.

Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple family dinner, Grandma’s amazing banana pie is always a hit. It’s a dessert that brings people together and creates memories that will last a lifetime. So why not try making this classic recipe yourself and see why it’s been a family favorite for so many years?

Grandma’s Secret Ingredient

Grandma’s banana cream pie is famous for its delicious taste and creamy texture. But what is the secret ingredient that makes it so special? After years of trying to figure it out, the answer has finally been revealed: vanilla extract.

Sourcing the Ingredient

Grandma always used pure vanilla extract in her baking, and it’s easy to see why. The flavor is rich and complex, with hints of sweetness and warmth that complement the banana filling perfectly. But not all vanilla extracts are created equal. To get the best results, it’s important to use a high-quality product.

When shopping for vanilla extract, look for one that is made from real vanilla beans and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or additives. Pure vanilla extract can be expensive, but a little goes a long way. It’s worth the investment to get that authentic vanilla flavor that Grandma’s pie is known for.

Incorporating the Ingredient

Adding vanilla extract to the filling is a simple step, but it makes a big difference in the final product. After scalding the milk, Grandma would stir in a generous splash of vanilla extract before adding the egg yolk mixture. This gave the filling a subtle vanilla flavor that enhanced the sweetness of the bananas without overpowering them.

When making the pie yourself, be sure to add the vanilla extract to the filling while it’s still hot. This will help the flavor to infuse evenly throughout the mixture. And don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of vanilla you use. Some people prefer a stronger vanilla flavor, while others like it more subtle. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Incorporating vanilla extract into the filling is just one of the many secrets to Grandma’s amazing banana cream pie. But it’s a key ingredient that sets it apart from all the rest. Give it a try and see for yourself how much of a difference it makes!

The Perfect Crust

Grandma’s banana pie recipe is a classic, and it all starts with the perfect crust. A flaky, golden crust is the foundation for any good pie, and Grandma’s recipe is no exception. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at how to achieve the perfect crust for your banana cream pie.

Choosing the Right Flour

The first step in creating the perfect crust is choosing the right flour. All-purpose flour is the best choice for achieving a soft, flaky crust. It’s a pantry staple that most people already have on hand, making it an easy choice for home bakers. Some recipes may call for pastry flour or cake flour, but all-purpose flour works just as well.

Achieving a Flaky Texture

The key to a flaky crust is keeping the ingredients cold and handling the dough as little as possible. Grandma’s recipe calls for cutting cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, ice water is added just until the dough comes together. Overworking the dough will result in a tough crust, so it’s important to handle it gently.

Once the dough is formed, it’s rolled out and placed into a pie dish. Grandma’s recipe calls for a Nilla wafer cookie crust, which adds a delicious crunch to the pie. The crust is then baked until golden brown and allowed to cool before adding the filling.

In summary, the perfect crust for Grandma’s banana cream pie starts with all-purpose flour and keeping the ingredients cold. Gently handling the dough and using a Nilla wafer cookie crust adds the perfect texture and flavor to this classic recipe.

Banana Filling Preparation

Selecting the Bananas

To make Grandma’s amazing banana cream pie, selecting the right bananas is crucial. The bananas should be ripe but not overly soft. Overly ripe bananas will not hold up well in the filling and can make it too sweet. The best bananas for this recipe are those that are yellow with some brown spots.

Creating a Smooth Filling

To create a smooth banana filling for the pie, it is important to follow the recipe instructions carefully. The filling is made by mixing flour, cornstarch, cold milk, egg yolks, sugar, and salt in a bowl. The mixture should be beaten well to ensure a smooth consistency.

Once the mixture is smooth, it should be poured into a saucepan along with the remaining milk. The mixture should be cooked over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and comes to a boil. This should take about 10-15 minutes.

After the mixture has boiled, it should be removed from the heat and butter and vanilla extract should be added. The mixture should be stirred until the butter is melted and the vanilla is well incorporated.

Finally, the sliced bananas should be added to the mixture and stirred gently until they are evenly distributed. The mixture should then be poured into a pre-baked pie shell and chilled for several hours until set.

By following these simple steps, anyone can create a smooth and delicious banana filling for Grandma’s amazing banana cream pie.

Baking Instructions

Preheating the Oven

Before starting to bake Grandma’s banana cream pie, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the pie crust to a golden brown color and cooking the filling to a creamy consistency.

Baking Duration

Baking time for the pie crust is around 10 to 12 minutes. Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, add the banana slices to the crust and pour the pudding mixture over the bananas.

The pie should be baked for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set. To check if the pie is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the pie is ready to be taken out of the oven.

Once the pie is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, add whipped cream or meringue on top of the pie for a delicious finishing touch.

Baking Grandma’s banana cream pie is easy and straightforward. With these simple baking instructions, anyone can create a mouth-watering dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Serving Suggestions

Grandma’s banana cream pie is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are serving it for a family dinner or a special event, there are a few tips and tricks to make sure your pie looks and tastes its best.

Pie Presentation

When it comes to serving Grandma’s banana cream pie, presentation is key. Here are a few tips to make sure your pie looks as good as it tastes:

• Cut the pie into even slices using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts to ensure each slice looks perfect.
• Place each slice on a dessert plate and add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
• For an extra touch of elegance, dust the whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Pairing Suggestions

Grandma’s banana cream pie is a delicious dessert on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of other treats to create a memorable meal. Here are a few pairing suggestions:

• Coffee: A cup of coffee is the perfect complement to the rich, creamy flavors of the pie.
• Ice Cream: For an extra treat, serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Fresh Fruit: Add a pop of color and flavor to the plate by serving the pie with a side of fresh berries or sliced fruit.

No matter how you choose to serve Grandma’s banana cream pie, it is sure to be a hit. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, this classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser that will never go out of style.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Proper Storage

To keep Grandma’s amazing banana cream pie fresh and tasty, it’s important to store it properly. If you plan to eat it within a day or two, you can simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. However, if you want to keep it for longer, it’s best to freeze it.

To freeze the pie, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating for Best Taste

If you’re reheating a slice of pie, it’s best to do it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice on a baking sheet. Cover the slice with aluminum foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through.

If you’re reheating the whole pie, it’s best to do it in the oven as well. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and remove the pie from the refrigerator. Cover the pie with aluminum foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through.

It’s important to note that reheating the pie in the microwave may result in a soggy crust and a less-than-ideal texture. If you must use the microwave, make sure to only heat it in short intervals and check it frequently to avoid overcooking.

By following these simple storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy Grandma’s amazing banana cream pie for days to come!