Easy Mini Banana Cream Pies Recipe: A Perfectly Portioned Dessert Delight

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 sheets, crushed)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 cups heavy cream (divided into 1 cup and 1 cup)
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3–4 medium ripe bananas, sliced into thin rounds

For Topping:

• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh banana slices (optional, for garnish)
• Shredded coconut, chocolate shavings, or crushed graham crackers (optional, for decoration)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs resemble wet sand.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among a 12-cup muffin tin, pressing firmly into the bottom of each cup.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cream Filling

1. Whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
2. Beat 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Mini Pies

1. Layer banana slices on top of each cooled crust.
2. Spoon the cream filling over the bananas, smoothing the tops.

Step 4: Whip the Topping

1. Beat the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Pipe or dollop the whipped cream onto each mini pie.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Decorate with fresh banana slices, shredded coconut, chocolate shavings, or crushed graham crackers.
2. Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.

Tips for Success

• Prevent Browning: Brush bananas with lemon juice to keep them fresh.
• Make Ahead: Prepare crusts and filling up to a day in advance, assembling before serving.
• Storage: Best fresh, but refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add toppings just before serving.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Why You’ll Love These Mini Pies

These Mini Banana Cream Pies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering all the flavors you love in a perfectly portioned package. The buttery crust, creamy filling, and fresh bananas create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these mini pies are sure to impress. Bite into one and experience pure dessert bliss!

Enjoy!