If you are looking for a dreamy, refreshing dessert that brings the perfect balance of fruity sweetness and creamy goodness, the Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe is an absolute must-try. This no-bake delight combines luscious bananas, vibrant strawberries, and a smooth banana cream filling all nestled in a crunchy crust, making it a crowd-pleaser any time of the year. Whether you’re craving a summer treat or a simple yet impressive dessert to share, this pie brings a burst of color and a wave of comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a unique role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the creamy pudding base to the fresh fruit layers, every component shines through.
- Pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: Choose graham cracker or pastry based on your preferred texture and crunch.
- Instant banana cream pudding mix (3.4 oz): This brings quick and delicious banana flavor with creamy consistency.
- Cold milk (1 1/2 cups): Helps thicken and set the pudding perfectly.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Whipped to soft peaks, it adds velvety richness and lightness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, comforting aroma.
- Ripe bananas (2, sliced): Provide natural sweetness and softness beneath the creamy layers.
- Fresh strawberries (1 1/2 cups, sliced): Add bright color and a tart contrast to the sweet cream.
- Whipped cream or whipped topping (1 cup): For a fluffy, decorative finish.
- Optional extra strawberries and banana slices: Perfect for garnish and inviting presentation.
How to Make Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Cream Filling
Start by whisking the instant banana cream pudding mix with the cold milk until it thickens, which takes about two minutes. This step creates a luscious base loaded with banana flavor and the creamy texture that makes this pie unforgettable. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form and gently fold it into your pudding. This folding technique ensures the filling stays light and airy, not dense.
Step 2: Layer the Pie
Lay the sliced bananas evenly across the bottom of your pre-baked pie crust. To keep those bananas looking fresh and prevent browning, a quick toss in lemon juice before layering works wonders. Next, spoon half of the pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out. Then add a vibrant layer of sliced strawberries, distributing them evenly. Top the strawberries with the remaining pudding mixture, creating layers that feel indulgent but fresh.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Cover your pie and pop it into the refrigerator for at least three hours. This chilling step is critical for the filling to set perfectly so the slices hold their shape and the flavors meld beautifully. Patience here truly pays off with every creamy, fruity bite.
Step 4: Add the Final Touches
Right before serving, spread the whipped cream or whipped topping evenly on the pie’s surface. For an extra pop of inviting color and freshness, garnish with additional banana slices and strawberries. These finishing touches make your Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe look just as delightful as it tastes.
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is key when it comes to garnishing. A few sprigs of mint alongside extra berry and banana slices bring a garden-fresh aroma and eye-catching appeal. You can also dust a little powdered sugar or drizzle some honey over the fruit to elevate the natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
This pie shines so brightly on its own that it doesn’t need much accompaniment, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of mixed berry compote can elevate the whole dessert experience into something truly special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in clear dessert cups so the beautiful layers are visible. You can also sprinkle crushed graham crackers or finely chopped nuts on top for added crunch and texture contrast, giving a playful and gourmet touch to your Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pie should be tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and kept refrigerated. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it an easy dessert to prepare ahead of time.
Freezing
While this pie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Keep in mind the fruit may become softer after freezing, so consume sooner rather than later.
Reheating
This cream pie is designed to be served cold and does not require reheating. Any attempt to heat it would negatively affect the texture of the filling and fresh fruit layers, so it’s best to enjoy chilled.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bananas for this pie?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe bananas are actually preferred for the best flavor and texture. Just be sure to toss them lightly in lemon juice to prevent browning and maintain their appealing look in the pie.
What type of crust works best?
Both graham cracker and pastry crusts work wonderfully. Graham cracker crust adds a sweet, slightly crunchy base, while a traditional pastry crust offers a tender and flaky texture. Choose based on your preference for crumbly or flaky.
Is it possible to make this pie vegan?
You can adapt the recipe with vegan pudding mixes, non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and coconut cream whipped topping. However, some substitutions might change the texture slightly, so experiment to find your perfect vegan balance!
How long should I chill the pie?
For the filling to set perfectly and for the flavors to blend together, chilling the pie for at least three hours is essential. Overnight chilling is even better if you plan ahead.
Can I prepare this pie ahead for a party?
Definitely! This easy-to-make Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe is perfect for making a day in advance. Simply assemble, chill overnight, and garnish right before serving for effortless entertaining.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the sweet, creamy joy of this Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe to brighten up any occasion. It’s simple to assemble, requires no oven time, and bursts with fresh fruit flavors that feel light yet indulgent. I encourage you to give it a whirl—you might just find your new favorite go-to dessert!
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Strawberry Banana Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Strawberry Banana Cream Pie featuring a creamy banana pudding filling layered with fresh bananas and strawberries in a pre-baked crust. This no-bake dessert is topped with whipped cream and perfect for a refreshing, easy-to-make summer treat.
Ingredients
Pie Base
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (graham cracker or pastry)
Filling
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana cream pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Optional extra strawberries and banana slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant banana cream pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Combine pudding and whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the thickened pudding mixture to create a smooth, creamy filling.
- Layer the pie: Place sliced bananas evenly in the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Add half of the pudding mixture over the bananas, then layer the sliced strawberries on top. Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the strawberries and smooth the surface.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours to allow it to set properly.
- Add topping and garnish: Before serving, spread the whipped cream or whipped topping over the chilled pie and garnish with additional strawberries and banana slices if desired.
Notes
- To prevent bananas from browning, toss the slices in a little lemon juice before layering.
- For a homemade twist, substitute the instant pudding with fresh banana custard or pastry cream.
