The aroma of caramelized banana foster pie recipe, that bold splash of rum, and the warmth of cinnamon melting into sweet cream. I wanted to capture all of that in a pie. And let me tell you, this recipe delivers.
This pie brings together a buttery homemade crust, silky vanilla pastry cream, and a gooey bananas foster topping that’s just the right amount of indulgent.
If you’re looking for something show-stopping but still approachable, this is the pie for you. I make it for dinner parties, birthdays, and honestly, whenever I feel like spoiling myself a litt.
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
I love this Banana Foster Pie Recipe because it hits that sweet spot between impressive and approachable. It looks like something you’d find at a fancy bakery, but I make it right at home with simple ingredients.
The flavors are bold and comforting—caramelized bananas, creamy vanilla pastry cream, and a buttery crust that holds it all together. It’s the kind of dessert that gets people talking.
What I enjoy most is how easy it is to make ahead, which takes the pressure off when I’m hosting or just craving something indulgent.
Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just want a slice of something rich and satisfying, this pie delivers every time.
How To Make Banana Foster Pie Recipe
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Refrigeration Time: 9 hours
Total Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: 8 servings
🧰 Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Rolling pin (if making crust from scratch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap
- Refrigerator
🧾 Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold
- 2 tablespoons vodka (optional, see note)
- 2–4 tablespoons cold water
For the Vanilla Pastry Cream:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Bananas Foster Topping:
- 3–4 medium bananas, sliced
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons dark rum
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add vodka (if using) and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Trim and crimp the edges, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for 15 minutes, remove weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the crust cool completely.
2. Make the Vanilla Pastry Cream
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, then add to the dry ingredients, mixing well.
- Gradually whisk in half-and-half until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
- Pour the pastry cream into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface, and refrigerate until chilled.
3. Prepare the Bananas Foster Topping
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Stir in heavy cream, rum, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Add sliced bananas and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Pie
- Spread the chilled pastry cream evenly into the cooled pie crust.
- Arrange the bananas foster topping over the pastry cream.
- Cover and refrigerate the pie for at least 6 hours or overnight to set.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve the Banana Foster Pie Recipe chilled, garnished with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
💡 Tips and Variations
- Crust Options: For a different texture, consider using a graham cracker crust or a chocolate cookie crust.
- Alcohol-Free Version: Omit the rum in the topping for a non-alcoholic version, or substitute with rum extract for flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Banana Placement: For a layered look, place fresh banana slices between the pastry cream and the topping.
🥗 Health Benefits
While Banana Foster Pie is an indulgent dessert, it does offer some nutritional benefits:
- Bananas: Rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, which support heart health and digestion.
- Dairy: Provides calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health.
- Eggs: A good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline.
However, due to its sugar and fat content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
📌 Note
Using vodka in the pie crust helps inhibit gluten formation, resulting in a tender, flaky crust. The alcohol evaporates during baking, leaving no residual taste.
📝 Conclusion
This Banana Foster Pie Recipe always feels like magic to me. It’s creamy, rich, and full of warm banana-caramel flavor that hits every sweet spot. Every time I serve it, I watch eyes light up after the first bite and that’s exactly why I keep coming back to it.
I love how this recipe turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable. It’s not just a dessert. It’s a moment. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something indulgent, I promise it’s worth every minute.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear what you think or how you made it your own.