Name: Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (from 10 large crackers); 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1/4 cup melted butter; 2/3 cup sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 1/2 cups whole or 2% milk; 4 large egg yolks; 3 oz finely chopped dark chocolate (about 60% cocoa); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large ripe bananas (peeled and sliced); 1 1/2 cups whipping cream; 3 tbsp granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; cocoa powder (for dusting, optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 56 reviews

If you are looking to treat yourself or impress friends with a dessert that’s both luscious and comforting, this Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe is a total winner. This pie combines a crisp graham cracker crust with the smooth richness of homemade chocolate pudding, layered with fresh bananas and crowned with fluffy whipped cream. Every forkful delivers the perfect balance of chocolatey, fruity, and creamy textures that make this pie absolutely unforgettable. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend indulgence, the Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe offers a timeless dessert experience that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds a three-layer dessert starting with a thick, golden crumb crust that lines the entire plate and looks crumbly and textured. Next, there is a smooth, dark chocolate layer spread evenly inside the crust, creating a shiny surface. On top, banana slices form a ring near the edge of the chocolate layer, with smaller banana slices arranged inside the ring, all showing their pale yellow color and soft texture. The plate rests on a light brown cloth with white stripes, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in building flavor, texture, or visual appeal. With simple pantry staples and fresh bananas, you’ll bring together a pie that is both impressive and straightforward to make.

Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a buttery, crunchy base that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and pudding for balanced flavor.
Melted butter: Binds the crust crumbs and adds rich taste.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
Cornstarch: Thickens the chocolate pudding for that luxuriously smooth texture.
Salt: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the pie’s flavor.
Whole or 2% milk: Creates the custard-like base of the chocolate filling.
Egg yolks: Add richness and help set the pudding.
Dark chocolate (60% cocoa): Melts into the pudding introducing intense chocolate depth.
Butter: Enriches the pudding for a glossy finish.
Vanilla extract: Brightens all the flavors with a warm touch.
Ripe bananas: Provide natural sweetness and creamy texture in every bite.
Whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection for topping.
Granulated sugar (for whipped cream): Sweetens the whipped cream delicately.
Cocoa powder (optional): Dusting adds an elegant finishing touch.

How to Make Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF. In your 9-inch pie plate, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate using a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup. Baking the crust for about 10 minutes will set it and release that irresistible toasty aroma. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack before you move on to the filling.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Pudding Filling

While your crust cools, start on the luscious chocolate pudding. In a medium saucepan off the heat, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk to dissolve the dry ingredients smoothly before adding the egg yolks. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and stir continuously until it begins to bubble and thicken—watch carefully, this is the magical moment your pudding comes to life! Reduce the heat and keep stirring for another 2-3 minutes. Then, remove from heat.

Step 3: Incorporate Chocolate and Cool the Filling

Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and butter immediately into the hot pudding until everything melts and blends beautifully. Add vanilla extract for that extra warmth and complexity. To bring the pudding to the perfect temperature quickly, transfer your bowl to an ice bath. Stir often to prevent lumps and allow the pudding to cool to room temperature in about 10 minutes—the smoother, the better for your pie’s silky filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie Layers

Now for the best part—layering your pie! Spoon half of the cooled pudding into the prepared crust. Lay down the first half of your sliced bananas evenly over the pudding, then add the remaining pudding on top. Arrange the last bananas neatly to create inviting layers. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming, paying attention to cover areas without banana. Refrigerate this masterpiece for at least 2 hours to let everything set perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

Just before serving, whip the cold cream with sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This fluffy topping is essential for balancing the rich chocolate and fruity bananas with its light, airy texture. Generously spread or pile the whipped cream atop your chilled pie, then dust with cocoa powder if you like a hint of bitterness to balance the sweet layers.

How to Serve Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe

A white pie dish holds a three-layered dessert placed on a wooden surface next to a knife with a wooden handle; the bottom layer is a golden, crumbly crust, the middle layer is creamy and light beige, topped with a thick, fluffy white cream layer sprinkled with brown powder. On top of the cream, there are several banana slices scattered. The pie dish is set on a soft brown and white striped cloth, all resting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe by adding fresh banana slices or curls of dark chocolate on top of the whipped cream. A sprinkle of toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can also add wonderful crunch and nutty aromas that marry beautifully with the chocolate.

Side Dishes

This pie shines on its own but pairs exquisitely with a simple bowl of fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce on the side. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is also a crowd-pleaser, enhancing the pie’s creaminess while adding a cool contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve this pie in clear glass dishes to showcase the enticing layers of crust, pudding, bananas, and whipped cream. You can even cut it into mini individual servings using tart pans or ramekins for a charming, personalized touch perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the delicate flavors and creamy texture. Remember to avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods to preserve its freshness.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to freeze the pie before adding the whipped cream topping. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and add fresh whipped cream just prior to enjoying.

Reheating

This pie is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off gently without sacrificing the luscious layers.

FAQs

Can I substitute the graham cracker crust with a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust provides a wonderful crunch and sweetness, you can use a chocolate cookie crust or even a traditional pastry crust if you prefer. Each will give a slightly different texture and flavor but still pair beautifully with the filling.

What kind of bananas work best for this pie?

Choose ripe but firm bananas for this recipe. Overripe bananas may become mushy and blacken quickly, which can affect both texture and appearance. Just-ripe bananas offer the perfect sweetness and hold up well in layers.

Can I make this Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, you’d need to substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat and use a vegan butter. You can also replace eggs with a thickener like agar or cornstarch alone. Dark chocolate should be dairy-free. While the flavor will be delicious, keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly.

How long does it take to make this pie from start to finish?

The prep and assembly take approximately 40 minutes, but since the pie needs at least 2 hours to chill and set in the refrigerator, plan ahead to allow enough time for the layers to firm up perfectly before serving.

Why do I need to cover the pie with plastic wrap directly on the surface?

This step prevents the chocolate pudding from forming an unsightly skin on the exposed surfaces. Pressing the plastic wrap onto the pie helps keep a smooth, creamy texture over every bite, especially in the spots where there are no bananas.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients in a magically delicious way. It’s the kind of dessert that feels both special and comforting, perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. I absolutely encourage you to try making it soon—you’ll be rewarded with smiles, compliments, and maybe even a request for seconds!