BLUEBERRY BANANA CREAM PIE

Blueberry Banana Cream Pie is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the tartness of fresh blueberries, all nestled in a creamy, custard-like filling. This pie offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and luscious banana cream layer, and a topping of juicy blueberries that adds a burst of color and flavor. It’s a wonderful dessert for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a sweet treat after dinner. This pie is easy to make, yet looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 large bananas, sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/4 cup blueberry preserves, warmed
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool completely.
2. Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Temper the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then, pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
4. Cook the Filling: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens further, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Assemble the Pie: Arrange the banana slices in a single layer over the cooled graham cracker crust. Pour the warm custard filling over the bananas, spreading it evenly.
6. Chill the Pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
7. Add the Blueberry Topping: Once the pie is set, top it with fresh blueberries. Brush the warmed blueberry preserves over the blueberries to give them a glossy finish.
8. Serve: Slice and serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Blueberry Banana Cream Pie is a delightful blend of creamy and fruity flavors, with a rich custard filling that perfectly complements the fresh bananas and blueberries. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, making it an ideal choice for any dessert table!