Introduction
Mini Banana Cream Pies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering all the rich, creamy flavors of banana cream pie in a bite-sized format. These charming little treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations.
With a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious banana pudding filling, and a fluffy whipped cream topping, each mini pie is a burst of flavor and texture. They are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make, making them a favorite among bakers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a sweet indulgence at home, Mini Banana Cream Pies are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extra banana slices for garnish (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of mini tart pans or muffin tins to form the crust.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened (about 2 minutes).
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the sliced bananas.
Assemble the Mini Pies:
Spoon the banana filling into the cooled crusts, filling them generously.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
Prepare the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Method of Storage
To keep your Mini Banana Cream Pies fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
After assembling the mini pies, cover them gently with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The whipped cream may lose some volume over time, but the flavor will remain intact.
Freezing:
While it’s best to enjoy these pies fresh, you can freeze them if needed.
Assemble the pies without the whipped cream topping. Wrap each mini pie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Label with the date, and they can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Tips
Thawing:
When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen mini pies to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight.
Once thawed, top with freshly whipped cream before serving.
Enjoying Leftovers
Serve chilled directly from the fridge, and consider adding a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor.
By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your Mini Banana Cream Pies while maintaining their delightful taste and texture!