Creamy Banoffee Pie: Decadent, Rich, and Irresistible
Banoffee Pie is a classic dessert that has won hearts worldwide with its creamy, indulgent layers of flavor. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with luscious caramel, velvety whipped cream, and a crisp biscuit base, this pie is the perfect marriage of textures and tastes. Every bite delivers a delightful contrast—the buttery crunch of the crust, the gooey richness of the toffee layer, the soft, fruity banana, and the airy whipped cream on top.
Perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or just a decadent treat after dinner, Creamy Banoffee Pie embodies comfort and sophistication in a single slice. Its appeal lies not only in its heavenly flavor but also in the simplicity of its preparation. Even home bakers with minimal experience can create this impressive dessert with ease. Seasonal variations, such as adding chocolate shavings or a hint of espresso, can elevate the flavors even further, making it a versatile dessert for every palate.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Digestive biscuits | 200 g (about 1 ¾ cups crushed) | 900 |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 100 g (½ cup) | 720 |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (397 g) | 1,300 |
| Ripe bananas | 3 medium | 315 |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup (240 ml) | 820 |
| Powdered sugar | 2–3 tbsp | 120 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Dark chocolate (optional) | 2 tbsp grated | 100 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
Crush the digestive biscuits until they resemble fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture into the base of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan or pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to set.
2. Make the Caramel Layer
Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a saucepan and simmer on low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and turns golden brown (or use ready-made dulce de leche). Allow to cool slightly before spreading it evenly over the biscuit base.
3. Add the Bananas
Slice the bananas and layer them over the caramel evenly, covering the entire surface.
4. Whip the Cream
In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the banana layer, creating a smooth, airy top.
5. Optional Chocolate Garnish
Sprinkle grated dark chocolate over the whipped cream for a finishing touch. Chill the pie for at least 1–2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of melted chocolate over the biscuit base before adding caramel for a rich chocolate-banoffee variation.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed toffee or roasted nuts between the banana and cream layers for added texture.
- Salted Caramel: Use salted butter or sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel for a sophisticated flavor contrast.
- Mini Banoffee Pies: Make individual servings in small ramekins for portion control or a party display.
- Alternative Base: Use graham crackers, shortbread, or gluten-free biscuits for a different flavor or dietary preference.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450–500 |
| Carbohydrates | 55–60 g |
| Fat | 25–28 g |
| Protein | 4–5 g |
| Sugar | 35–40 g |
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Banoffee Pie is best served slightly chilled for a refreshing and indulgent dessert. Pair it with:
- Fresh berries for a tart contrast
- A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence
- Hot coffee or a light dessert wine for a complete experience
It also makes a perfect centerpiece for holiday meals, birthday celebrations, or casual family gatherings.
Creamy Banoffee Pie: Decadent, Rich, and Irresistible
8
servings20
minutes2
hours450-500
kcalIngredients
For the Base:
200 g digestive biscuits (about 1 ¾ cups crushed)
100 g unsalted butter (melted)
For the Caramel Layer:
1 can sweetened condensed milk (397 g) or ready-made dulce de leche
For the Filling:
3 medium ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2–3 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
2 tbsp dark chocolate, grated
Directions
- Prepare the Base
- Crush digestive biscuits and mix with melted butter. Press into the base of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Chill 10–15 minutes.
- Make the Caramel Layer
- Simmer sweetened condensed milk until golden brown and thick (or use ready-made dulce de leche). Spread evenly over the biscuit base.
- Add Bananas
- Layer sliced bananas evenly over the caramel.
- Whip the Cream
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread over the banana layer.
- Optional Chocolate Garnish
- Sprinkle grated dark chocolate over the whipped cream. Chill the pie for at least 1–2 hours before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best texture and flavor, serve Banoffee Pie slightly chilled. The combination of buttery biscuit, caramel, sweet bananas, and creamy whipped topping creates a dessert that is both indulgent and crowd-pleasing.
FAQs
1. What is Banoffee Pie?
Banoffee Pie is a classic dessert made from layers of a biscuit base, caramel or dulce de leche, sliced bananas, and whipped cream. It’s rich, creamy, and sweet with a perfect balance of textures.
2. Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes! Banoffee Pie is even better when made a few hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
3. Can I use store-bought dulce de leche?
Absolutely. Ready-made dulce de leche can be used instead of cooking sweetened condensed milk. It saves time and provides a smooth, rich caramel layer.
4. How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
Sprinkle a little lemon juice on the sliced bananas before layering. This helps maintain their color and freshness.
5. Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes. Use gluten-free digestive biscuits or graham crackers for the base. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
6. Can I use whipped cream from a can?
While fresh whipped cream is recommended for best flavor and texture, canned whipped cream can be used in a pinch.
Conclusion
Creamy Banoffee Pie is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with luxury. Its layers of biscuit, caramel, banana, and whipped cream create an irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this pie is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re treating yourself or delighting friends and family. Once you try this dessert, it’s likely to become a staple in your recipe collection, embodying the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and indulgence.
