If you love rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet desserts, this Banana Cream Pie is a must-try! It’s made with a buttery crust, luscious banana custard filling, and fluffy whipped cream, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, family gathering, or just a weekend treat, this classic dessert never disappoints.

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Why You’ll Love This Sweet Treat

  • Creamy & Dreamy . The silky banana custard filling melts in your mouth!
  • Make-Ahead Friendly . Perfect for prepping in advance for parties or gatherings.
  • Simple Ingredients . Uses pantry staples for an easy homemade pie.
  • No-Bake Option . Can be made with a graham cracker crust if you want to skip baking!

This Banana Cream Pie is smooth, creamy, and bursting with fresh banana flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this pie will quickly become a family favorite!

What Does Banana Cream Pie Taste Like?

Banana Cream Pie is a classic American dessert featuring a flaky pie crust filled with a rich, homemade banana custard, topped with fresh banana slices and fluffy whipped cream. It’s silky, sweet, and bursting with banana flavor—a favorite for good reason!

While traditional versions use pastry cream, this recipe simplifies things with a thick and creamy homemade banana custard that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious.

How Do You Keep Bananas From Turning Brown In Banana Cream Pie?

Bananas naturally turn brown due to oxidation, which happens when they are exposed to air. While this doesn’t affect their taste, it can make your Banana Cream Pie look less appetizing. Here are some simple and effective ways to keep your bananas fresh and vibrant for as long as possible:

  • Use Lemon or Lime Juice. Lightly brush or toss banana slices in lemon or lime juice before layering them in the pie. The natural acidity slows oxidation, keeping them fresh longer.
  • Dip in Pineapple or Orange Juice. If you prefer a sweeter alternative, pineapple or orange juice works just as well to prevent browning while adding a subtle fruity taste.
  • Use a Light Sugar Glaze. Coating the banana slices with a thin layer of simple syrup (sugar dissolved in water) or honey can create a protective barrier against air exposure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crust

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs - Serves as the foundation of the pie, providing a crunchy contrast to the smooth custard. The graham cracker crumbs add a subtle sweetness and slight caramelized flavor.
  • Granulated sugar - Adds a touch of sweetness to enhance the flavor of the crust and helps bind the crumbs together.
  • Unsalted butter - Acts as the binding agent, ensuring the crust holds together while adding a rich, buttery flavor.

Banana Cream Filling

  • Whole Milk - The base of the custard, giving it a rich, creamy texture. Whole milk provides the perfect balance of fat for a smooth consistency.
  • Granulated Sugar - Sweetens the custard without overpowering the natural banana flavor.
  • Cornstarch - A key thickening agent that helps create a firm, sliceable custard that holds together beautifully.
  • Egg Yolks - Adds richness, color, and structure to the custard while helping it thicken into a silky, smooth texture.
  • Unsalted Butter - Enhances the creaminess and provides a luxurious mouthfeel to the filling.
  • Vanilla Extract - Deepens the flavor with a warm, aromatic sweetness that complements the bananas.
  • Bananas - The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and classic banana flavor. Ripe bananas ensure a deep, rich taste with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Whipped Cream Topping

  • Heavy Whipping Cream - Whips up into a light and fluffy topping, balancing the richness of the custard with an airy texture.
  • Powdered Sugar - Sweetens the whipped cream gently without making it too heavy. Powdered sugar dissolves easily, keeping the topping smooth.
  • Vanilla Extract - Adds a hint of warm, aromatic flavor, making the whipped cream extra delicious and complementing the banana notes perfectly.

How To Make Banana Cream Pie

  1. Prepare the Crust . Preheat oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool completely. (For a no-bake option, refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes instead of baking.)
  2. Make the Banana Custard . In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then slowly whisk in about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly, and cook until thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let the custard cool for 10 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap (pressing it against the custard to prevent skin from forming).
  3. Assemble the Pie . Slice bananas and arrange them in the cooled pie crust. Pour the cooled custard over the bananas, spreading it evenly. Layer on more sliced bananas. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
  4. Make the Whipped Cream Topping . Using a mixer, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with extra banana slices and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers if desired.
  5. Serve and Enjoy! Slice and enjoy your homemade Banana Cream Pie!
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Tips And Tricks

Making a perfectly creamy, rich, and flavorful Banana Cream Pie requires a few key techniques. Follow these expert tips and tricks to ensure your pie turns out smooth, stable, and absolutely delicious:

  • Use Ripe Bananas . The sweeter the bananas, the better the flavor!
  • Prevent Browning . Toss banana slices with lemon juice before adding them to the pie.
  • Chill for the Best Texture . The longer it sets, the better the custard holds up!
  • Press Plastic Wrap on Custard . This prevents a skin from forming while cooling.
  • Use a Piping Bag for Whipped Cream . Makes it look extra fancy and elegant!

Variations

If you love classic Banana Cream Pie but want to switch things up, try these fun and creative variations to add a new twist to this beloved dessert. Whether you prefer a chocolatey, nutty, or tropical version, there’s something for everyone:

  • Chocolate - Add ½ cup melted chocolate to the custard for a chocolate twist!
  • Peanut Butter - Swirl in ¼ cup peanut butter into the custard.
  • Coconut - Use coconut milk instead of whole milk and add toasted coconut flakes on top.
  • Oreo - Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos in the crust.

What To Enjoy With Banana Cream Pie

Banana Cream Pie is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can elevate your dining experience. Whether you want a complementary dessert, a refreshing beverage, or a contrasting flavor, here are some perfect pairings:

  • Coffee or Espresso - The slight bitterness balances the pie’s sweetness.
  • Chocolate Sauce Drizzle - For an extra indulgent touch.
  • Caramelized Bananas – A warm, caramelized topping adds depth of flavor.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream - Because pie and ice cream are a match made in heaven!

How Long Does It Last?

Banana Cream Pie is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Since it contains dairy and fresh bananas, proper storage is essential to maintain its texture and flavor. To keep it fresh, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.

The bananas may start to brown over time, so to slow this process, lightly brush the banana slices with lemon juice before assembling the pie.

Can You Freeze It?

Freezing is not recommended, as the custard filling can become watery and lose its smooth texture once thawed.

For the best taste and consistency, enjoy your Banana Cream Pie within the first couple of days while the flavors are at their peak!

More Delicious Desserts

  • Lemon Squares
  • Brownie Mix Cookies
  • Oreo Cheesecake
  • Black Bean Brownies
  • Lemonade Pie
Banana Cream Pie Pin with text overlay - 3 Banana Cream Pie Recipe - 4

Banana Cream Pie Recipe | Easy Homemade Banana Cream Pie

Ingredients

For The Crust

  • ▢ 2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs , crushed
  • ▢ 6 tbsp Unsalted Butter , melted
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar

Filling

  • ▢ 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • ▢ 2 cups Whole Milk
  • ▢ 3 Egg Yolks
  • ▢ 1 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • ▢ 2 Bananas , sliced

For The Topping

  • ▢ 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Powdered Sugar
  • ▢ 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Crust . Preheat oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool completely. (For a no-bake option, refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes instead of baking.)
  • Make the Banana Custard . In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then slowly whisk in about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly, and cook until thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let the custard cool for 10 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap (pressing it against the custard to prevent skin from forming).
  • Assemble the Pie . Slice bananas and arrange them in the cooled pie crust. Pour the cooled custard over the bananas, spreading it evenly. Layer on more sliced bananas. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
  • Make the Whipped Cream Topping . Using a mixer, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with extra banana slices and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers if desired.
  • Serve and Enjoy! Slice and enjoy your homemade Banana Cream Pie!

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Banana Cream Pie Recipe - 7

Banana Cream Pie Recipe | Easy Homemade Banana Cream Pie

Ingredients

For The Crust

  • 2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs crushed
  • 6 tbsp Unsalted Butter melted
  • 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar

Filling

  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • 3 Egg Yolks
  • 1 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 2 Bananas sliced

For The Topping

  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
  • 2 tbsp Powdered Sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Crust . Preheat oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool completely. (For a no-bake option, refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes instead of baking.)
  • Make the Banana Custard . In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then slowly whisk in about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly, and cook until thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Let the custard cool for 10 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap (pressing it against the custard to prevent skin from forming).
  • Assemble the Pie . Slice bananas and arrange them in the cooled pie crust. Pour the cooled custard over the bananas, spreading it evenly. Layer on more sliced bananas. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
  • Make the Whipped Cream Topping . Using a mixer, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with extra banana slices and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers if desired.
  • Serve and Enjoy! Slice and enjoy your homemade Banana Cream Pie!

Banana Cream Pie Recipe | Easy Homemade Banana Cream Pie https://twosleevers.com/banana-cream-pie-recipe/

Crockpot Swedish Meatballs Pin with text overlay - 8

If you love comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, these Crockpot Swedish Meatballs are going to be your new go-to dinner. This easy slow cooker recipe delivers juicy meatballs in a luscious, savory gravy—perfect for cozy weeknights, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love These Marvelous Meatballs

  • Effortless. Just mix, shape, and let your crockpot do the work.
  • Family-Friendly. A nostalgic classic everyone at the table will devour.
  • Creamy & Savory. The rich, velvety gravy is absolutely irresistible.
  • Versatile. Serve over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes!

Are Swedish Meatballs From Sweden?

Not exactly—but they are inspired by traditional Scandinavian flavors. Swedish meatballs (or “köttbullar”) are typically smaller than Italian meatballs and served with a creamy gravy rather than marinara.

Our version uses easy-to-find ingredients and the slow cooker to keep things simple.

What Do Crockpot Swedish Meatballs Taste Like?

Crockpot Swedish meatballs have a rich, savory, and creamy flavor with a hint of warm spice and tang. Here’s what you can expect in each bite:

  • The gravy is silky and luscious, made from beef broth, sour cream, and heavy cream, giving it a comforting, buttery richness.
  • Tender and juicy meatballs made from a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with salt, pepper, and allspice—a signature Swedish spice that gives a gentle warmth without being spicy.
  • A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle umami kick, rounding out the sauce with depth and complexity.
  • The overall flavor is cozy and nostalgic—like a cross between classic meatballs and a creamy stroganoff.

They pair beautifully with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even over rice for a hearty, comforting meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Ground Beef & Pork - A flavorful blend that provides both richness and tenderness to the meatballs.
  • Breadcrumbs - Binds the meat mixture and keeps the meatballs soft and light.
  • Milk - Soaks the breadcrumbs to add moisture and prevent dryness.
  • Onion - Finely grated to melt into the meat and infuse savory flavor throughout.
  • Egg - Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together during cooking.
  • Salt, Pepper & Allspice - Traditional Swedish seasonings that add warmth, depth, and mild spice.
  • Beef Broth - Forms the base of the savory gravy that the meatballs simmer in.
  • Worcestershire Sauce - Enhances the sauce with rich umami and a hint of tang.
  • Heavy Cream & Sour Cream - Stirred in at the end for a smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy finish.
  • Butter & Flour - Combined to create a roux that thickens the sauce into a luscious Swedish-style gravy.

How To Make Crockpot Swedish Meatballs

  1. Make the Meatballs. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, egg, onion, and seasonings. Mix gently with your hands, then roll into 1-inch balls.
  2. Brown the Meatballs. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs in batches. Don’t cook them all the way through—just enough to form a crust. This adds flavor and helps them hold their shape in the slow cooker.
  3. Prepare the Sauce. In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, whisking constantly until smooth. Transfer to the crockpot.
  4. Slow Cook. Place the browned meatballs in the crockpot with the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
  5. Stir in Creams. 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Let it warm through and thicken slightly before serving.
  6. Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve over buttery egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even rice. Don’t forget a side of lingonberry jam for a sweet-tart contrast that’s totally traditional!
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Tips And Tricks

Here are the top tips and tricks for making the most flavorful, tender, and creamy Crockpot Swedish Meatballs every single time:

  • Don’t Overmix. Mix the meatball ingredients until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
  • Grate the Onion. This blends better into the mixture and adds moisture.
  • Use a Cookie Scoop. To keep meatballs uniform for even cooking.
  • Deglaze the Pan. Use a splash of broth to scrape up all those browned bits before transferring sauce to the crockpot—that’s flavor gold!

Variations

Here are some delicious variations for making Crockpot Swedish Meatballs—perfect if you want to shake things up or tailor the recipe to your taste or dietary needs:

  • Turkey or Chicken Meatballs - A lighter twist that still delivers big flavor.
  • Gluten-Free - Use GF breadcrumbs and a 1:1 gluten-free flour for the roux.
  • Extra Creamy - Stir in a bit of cream cheese for an ultra-luxe finish.
  • Spicy Kick - Add a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika to the meatball mix.

What To Enjoy With Crockpot Swedish Meatballs

Crockpot Swedish Meatballs are rich, creamy, and savory—perfect for pairing with comforting sides and fresh accents. Here are some delicious ideas for what to enjoy with them:

  • Egg Noodles - Classic and cozy.
  • Mashed Potatoes - Creamy carbs to soak up all that luscious gravy.
  • Green Beans - For a fresh, crisp contrast.
  • Lingonberry Sauce - The sweet-tart sauce traditionally served with meatballs in Sweden. Cranberry sauce works too in a pinch!

How Long Do They Last?

Store any leftover Crockpot Swedish Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time—so they’re even better the next day!

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes! Freeze the cooked meatballs and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

More Simple Slow Cooker Recipes

  • Slow Cooker Barbacoa
  • Crock Pot Sloppy Joes
  • Chicken Street Tacos
  • Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
  • Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
Crockpot Swedish Meatballs Pin with text overlay - 11 Close up image of crock pot swedish meatballs on egg noodles in a bowl - 12

Crockpot Swedish Meatballs Recipe | Slow Cooker Meatballs

Ingredients

  • ▢ 1 pound Ground Beef
  • ▢ 1 pound Ground Pork
  • ▢ 1 cup Breadcrumbs
  • ▢ 1/2 cup Milk
  • ▢ 1 Onion , chopped
  • ▢ 1 Egg
  • ▢ 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • ▢ 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
  • ▢ 1 tsp Ground All Spice
  • ▢ 2 cups Beef Broth
  • ▢ 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • ▢ 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • ▢ 1/4 cup Sour Cream
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • ▢ 2 tbsp All Purpose Flour

Instructions

  • Make the Meatballs. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, egg, onion, and seasonings. Mix gently with your hands, then roll into 1-inch balls.
  • Brown the Meatballs. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs in batches. Don’t cook them all the way through—just enough to form a crust. This adds flavor and helps them hold their shape in the slow cooker.
  • Prepare the Sauce. In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, whisking constantly until smooth. Transfer to the crockpot.
  • Slow Cook. Place the browned meatballs in the crockpot with the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
  • Stir in Creams. 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Let it warm through and thicken slightly before serving.
  • Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve over buttery egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even rice. Don’t forget a side of lingonberry jam for a sweet-tart contrast that’s totally traditional!

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