Name: Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full-size graham cracker sheets); 6 tablespoons salted butter or coconut oil, melted; 4 tablespoons maple syrup (divided: 2 tablespoons for crust, 2 tablespoons for cream); 2 cups date caramel (homemade or store-bought dulce de leche); 3-4 ripe but firm bananas, sliced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free alternative, see notes); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; Chocolate shavings, for topping

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If you’re craving a dessert that’s luscious, comforting, and just a bit lighter than the classic, you’ve got to try this Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe. It’s that perfect balance of rich caramel, fresh bananas, and creamy topping nestled on a crunchy, slightly sweet crust—all made with wholesome ingredients that make indulgence feel guilt-free. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, this pie will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear square glass dish contains a two-layer dessert placed on a white marbled textured surface. The bottom layer is a coarse, light brown crumb crust pressed evenly along the base and edges of the dish. The top layer is a smooth, rich dark brown chocolate-like filling spread thickly and evenly with soft swirls visible across the surface. The layers contrast in texture with the crumbly base and creamy top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ready to make magic happen? The ingredients here are simple, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor harmony. From the crunchy crust to the sweet, caramel-like date filling and silky whipped cream, every bite brings something delightful to the table.

Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): This forms the crunchy and buttery base that sets the whole pie up for success.
Salted butter or coconut oil (6 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps bind the crust ingredients together.
Maple syrup (4 tablespoons total): A natural sweetener that brings subtle depth and complements the bananas beautifully.
Date caramel (2 cups) or store-bought dulce de leche: This is your luscious, healthier alternative to traditional caramel, offering sweetness with a rich, sticky consistency.
Ripe but firm bananas (3-4, sliced): Adds freshness and natural sweetness with a creamy texture.
Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): Whipped to airy perfection for that iconic banoffee finish (see notes for coconut cream option).
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Elevates the cream topping with warm, comforting flavor.
Chocolate shavings: Adds a touch of elegance and a hint of bittersweet contrast on top.

How to Make Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter or coconut oil, and two tablespoons of maple syrup. Mix everything until it’s well combined, then press this mixture firmly into an 8 x 8-inch deep baking dish. Baking it for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and toasted will give you the ideal crunch that holds up to the luscious fillings without sogginess.

Step 2: Layer the Caramel and Bananas

Once your crust has cooled, spread the date caramel or dulce de leche evenly over the base. This sticky layer is where the magic begins! Then, layer your sliced bananas on top, making sure to cover the caramel completely. The bananas provide that fresh fruity flavor that balances the richness of the caramel beautifully.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about 2 to 3 minutes or until soft peaks form. Add the vanilla extract and remaining two tablespoons of maple syrup, then whip for another 30 seconds to blend everything perfectly. The cream should be silky, light, and slightly sweet, ready to be the crowning glory of your pie.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Spread the whipped cream evenly over the banana layer. Cover your pie and chill it in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours or even overnight. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and the pie to set, making slices cleaner and more satisfying.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Just before serving, sprinkle the top generously with chocolate shavings. This not only adds a stunning visual contrast but also an extra layer of flavor that pairs so well with the sweet and creamy elements below.

How to Serve Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe

The dessert is shown in a clear rectangular glass dish with four visible layers. The bottom layer is a crumbly light brown crust, followed by a smooth medium brown layer. Above that, there are sliced bananas arranged in a neat layer of pale yellow with some texture. The top layer is thick white whipped cream, piled high and topped with small dark brown chocolate shavings scattered all over. A small white flower is placed on the whipped cream as decoration. The dish is on a natural rough wooden surface, with some chocolate shavings and a vanilla pod nearby, against a dark blurred background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe, consider adding a few fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cocoa powder alongside the chocolate shavings. These accents bring a fresh herbal note or an extra hint of chocolate that can make each serving feel thoughtfully gourmet.

Side Dishes

This dessert stands out best on its own, but if you want to add a little side, try a simple bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. These accompaniments add a pop of color and refreshing tartness that complements the richness of the pie.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist on presentation, serve individual portions in clear glasses layering crust crumbs, caramel, bananas, and whipped cream. Not only does this showcase the beautiful layers, but it also makes serving and cleanup super easy for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the cream’s texture and the bananas’ freshness. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent moisture from making the crust soggy.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t ideal for this pie because the texture of the bananas and cream might change, you can freeze the crust separately for up to 1 month. Then, bake and assemble fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the full flavor and texture combination.

Reheating

This pie is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If your crust feels less crisp after refrigeration, a quick 5-minute toast in the oven before assembling can refresh that satisfying crunch.

FAQs

Can I substitute the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative?

Absolutely! Coconut cream whipped to soft peaks works wonderfully as a dairy-free substitute in this Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe. It maintains the creamy texture and adds a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas and caramel.

Is date caramel healthier than regular caramel?

Yes! Date caramel is made from blended dates and often a touch of water or coconut milk, making it naturally sweet and packed with fiber and nutrients, unlike traditional caramel, which relies on sugar and cream.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Choose ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas tend to be mushy and overly sweet, which can affect the texture and balance of sweetness in the pie.

Can I make the pie gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply swap traditional graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free versions or ground nuts mixed with a little gluten-free flour to keep the crust delicious and safe for gluten-sensitive folks.

How long does it take to make this pie?

Including chilling time, expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes total. Most of that time is hands-off chilling, so it’s perfect for preparing in advance or when you want a dessert that impresses without nonstop effort.

Final Thoughts

This Healthier Banoffee Pie Recipe brings all the indulgence of the classic dessert with a fresh, wholesome twist that you’ll feel great about sharing and enjoying. With its creamy, fruity, and naturally sweet components, this pie is a winner for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how delicious healthier can be!