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
Scale
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