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No-Bake Banana Cream Pie

There is something wonderfully comforting about a classic banana cream pie, especially when you can make it without turning on the oven. This No-Bake Banana Cream Pie combines a crisp, buttery crust with layers of fresh banana slices and silky vanilla cream. It is cool, creamy, and naturally sweet, making it an ideal dessert for warm days, family gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want an impressive homemade treat without complicated baking.

The best part is that most of the work happens in the refrigerator. Once assembled, the pie simply needs enough time to chill and set, allowing the flavors to come together and the filling to become perfectly sliceable.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
A small pinch of salt

For the Banana Cream Filling

3 ripe but firm bananas
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold whole milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar

For the Topping

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 banana, sliced just before serving
Optional: extra graham cracker crumbs or white chocolate shavings

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and a small pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

The mixture should resemble damp sand and hold together when pressed between your fingers.

Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch pie dish. Using the bottom of a measuring cup or the back of a spoon, firmly press the crumbs across the bottom and up the sides of the dish.

Take your time with this step. A firmly packed crust will hold together much better when the pie is sliced.

Place the crust in the refrigerator for at least 20–30 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cream Mixture

Pour the cold milk into a large mixing bowl. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk for about 2 minutes, or according to the pudding package directions, until the mixture thickens.

Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Set the pudding aside for a few minutes while you prepare the whipped cream.