Creamy, dreamy Banana Cream Pie Bars with a buttery crust—perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or an indulgent no-bake dessert at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** is how a few simple, familiar ingredients combine to deliver a standout dessert experience. Each one plays a starring role in the dish’s creamy, dreamy texture and layered flavors. Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Crushed graham crackers (1½ cups): These form the backbone of the crust, offering that perfect, classic pie texture and a deep, toasty sweetness.
- Melted butter (6 tbsp): Butter binds the graham crumbs together, adding rich flavor and helping the crust hold its shape.
- Sugar (2 tbsp): Just enough sugar enhances the sweetness of the crust and brings out the flavor of the graham crackers.
- Instant banana pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz): This is the secret to an ultra-smooth, banana-infused filling built for easy assembly.
- Cold milk (1½ cups): Blending with the pudding mix, the milk creates a luscious, thick layer that won’t slide off your crust.
- Whipped cream or whipped topping (1 cup): Folding this in gives the filling that signature lightness and “cloud-like” texture.
- Ripe bananas, sliced (2): Fresh banana slices amp up the fruit flavor and provide contrast with sweet creaminess.
- Additional whipped topping and vanilla wafer crumbs (for garnish): These make every square picture-perfect and add one last hit of crunch and cream!
How to Make Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:**
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir everything together until the mixture feels like damp sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch pan, making sure to get into the corners. This golden, buttery base is the foundation for your Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:**, so don’t rush—pressing firmly ensures the crust holds together beautifully.
Step 2: Bake and Cool the Crust
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until the crust is set and fragrant, but not browned. Don’t skip the cooling step! Let your crust cool completely on a wire rack—this keeps the crust crisp and prevents the filling from melting when you layer it on. A little patience here gives you that classic pie texture in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Banana Pudding Filling
In a clean bowl, whisk together your instant banana pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk for 2 to 3 minutes, until thick and creamy. Once the pudding is set but still soft, gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until fully incorporated. This step gives your Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** their signature fluffy, silky-smooth filling—so treat it gently to keep that lovely aerated texture.
Step 4: Layer the Bananas
Peel and slice your ripe bananas into thin coins and arrange them in an even layer right over the cooled crust. Don’t be shy with the bananas—layer them so you get some fruit in every bite. The fresh bananas offer a sweet, slightly tangy contrast to the creamy filling, making each mouthful utterly indulgent.
Step 5: Spread the Creamy Layer
Next, pour the creamy pudding mixture over the banana slices. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, making sure it covers every inch of banana (this also helps keep your fruit from browning). This is where the real magic happens, turning simple ingredients into the ultimate Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:**.
Step 6: Chill
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set and the bars are nice and cold. Chilling melds all the layers together, making them sliceable and keeping the flavors bright and distinct.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, spread an extra layer of whipped topping over the bars and sprinkle generously with crushed vanilla wafer crumbs. The whipped cream makes everything extra luscious, while the crumbs bring a playful, crunchy finish. Now you’re ready to slice and enjoy!
How to Serve Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:**
Garnishes
For a final flourish, I love scattering more crumbly vanilla wafer cookies across the top of the bars and adding a swirl of whipped cream on each piece. For special occasions, a few extra banana slices or even a drizzle of caramel sauce makes every serving feel bakery-worthy. Let your creativity (and sweet tooth!) be your guide—the right garnish makes these Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** impossible to resist.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a hot mug of coffee or a tall glass of milk for a classic comfort combo. If you’re serving dessert for a crowd, they’re delightful alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad—just enough acidity and freshness to balance the creaminess of the pie bars. For a dreamy brunch, serve Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** with mini quiches or a savory cheese platter for a sweet-and-salty spread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve the bars in cupcake liners or small jars for a charming, mess-free treat. For parties, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and pile them high on a decorative platter—perfect for snacking and sharing. Or go full “dessert bar” style with a toppings station: set out extra bananas, crushed cookies, nuts, and chocolate chips so everyone can dress up their own Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** just the way they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** keep best when covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. Tuck any leftovers (if you have them!) in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The whipped topping is stable, but for the very best taste and texture, try to enjoy the bars within a day or two, as the bananas will soften over time.
Freezing
You can definitely freeze Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** if you’d like to get ahead. Just make and assemble the bars without garnishing them, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and wait to add the whipped topping and crumbs until just before you slice and enjoy, for best results.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat—these bars are meant to be enjoyed chilled! If you do have frozen bars, simply allow them to thaw in the fridge, then unveil and garnish as usual. If the crust softens a little after freezing, a quick fifteen-minute chill in the freezer just before serving can help regain a bit of that snappy texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream works beautifully in Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:**. Just be sure to whip it until soft peaks form, and gently fold it into the pudding so the filling stays light and fluffy.
What if I only have vanilla pudding mix?
No worries! Vanilla pudding mix can be used in place of banana pudding if that’s what you have on hand. For extra banana flavor, simply add a half teaspoon of banana extract or a few extra fresh banana slices to the filling layer.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
To keep your banana slices from turning brown, be sure to cover them completely with the pudding mixture, which seals out air. For extra protection, toss the slices lightly in lemon juice before layering them into the pan.
Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all of the Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:** and use a 9×13-inch pan instead. The baking and chilling times will stay about the same, making this a perfect easy dessert for potlucks or family gatherings.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust, and always double-check your pudding mix and other add-ins to ensure they meet your dietary needs. You’ll still get that dreamy, creamy, classic flavor.
Final Thoughts
Desserts don’t get much more comforting—or crowd-pleasing—than these Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients:**. They’re simple to make, easy to serve, and loved by everyone who tries them. I hope you’ll give this recipe a spot in your dessert rotation and share it with friends and family: there’s just something irresistible about classic flavors, creamy layers, and a treat you can hold right in your hand!
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Banana Cream Pie Bars Ingredients
- Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
- Yield: 9 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Cream Pie Bars are a luscious, no-fuss dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, fresh banana slices, and a silky banana pudding layer, all topped with whipped cream and a hint of vanilla wafer crunch. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you crave a classic banana cream pie in a handheld, bar form!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1½ cups crushed graham crackers
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Filling
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold milk
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
For Assembly and Topping
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- Additional whipped topping (for garnish)
- Vanilla wafer crumbs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, stir together the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form a firm layer.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before proceeding.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with the cold milk for about 2 minutes, until it becomes thick. Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Layer the Bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, making sure the entire surface is covered.
- Spread the Pudding Mixture: Using a spatula, carefully spread the banana pudding and whipped cream mixture over the sliced bananas, smoothing out the top.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top with additional whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed vanilla wafer crumbs for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and sogginess.
- The bars can be made a day ahead; add the garnishes just before serving.
- If you prefer a stronger banana flavor, stir a few extra banana slices into the pudding layer.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free graham crackers and wafers.
- Keep leftovers refrigerated and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg