Description
Banoffee Pie
Ingredients:
Crust:
2 cups graham crackers, crushed
1/2 cup melted butter
Filling:
1 can sweetened condensed milk (for caramel)
4 ripe bananas, sliced
Topping:
2 cups whipped cream
1/4 cup caramel sauce
1/4 cup crushed biscuits or graham crackers
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust: Mix graham crackers and melted butter. Press into a pie dish. Chill for 15 minutes.
2. Make Caramel: Heat the condensed milk in a pot until thickened and golden, stirring constantly. Let it cool.
3. Assemble: Spread the caramel over the crust. Add a layer of banana slices.
4. Add Topping: Spread whipped cream over the bananas, drizzle caramel sauce, and sprinkle crushed biscuits.
5. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Slice and enjoy.
#BanoffeePie
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect pie. First, ensure your condensed milk is in a sealed can. To make the caramel, submerge the unopened can completely in a large pot of water. Simmer for 3 hours, ensuring the can is always covered with water to prevent it from exploding. Let the can cool completely before opening. For the crust, combine the fine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press it into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Pre-bake this crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely before filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled slices on their own for a classic treat. For a more elegant presentation, garnish each plate with a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce on the side complements the sweet flavors beautifully. This pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or black tea to balance its richness.
How-to Summary
Create a buttery graham cracker crust and pre-bake it. Transform a can of condensed milk into thick caramel by boiling it (in the can) for 3 hours. Spread the cooled caramel over the crust, add a layer of sliced bananas, then top with whipped cream. Finish with a caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of crushed biscuits. Chill thoroughly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the caramel faster? Yes, you can pour the condensed milk into a heatproof bowl and cook it in a pressure cooker for 30-45 minutes, or use a store-bought thick caramel or dulce de leche.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning? Toss the banana slices in a small amount of lemon or pineapple juice before assembling. This creates a barrier against oxidation.
Can I make this pie ahead of time? You can prepare the crust and caramel a day ahead. However, assemble the pie no more than 6-8 hours before serving to prevent the bananas from becoming mushy and the crust from getting soggy.
What can I use instead of graham crackers? Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed pretzels (for a sweet-salty twist) make excellent crust alternatives.
How long does Banoffee pie last? It’s best consumed within 1-2 days when stored covered in the refrigerator. The quality declines as the bananas soften and the crust loses its crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not boiling the can of condensed milk fully submerged: This is a safety must to prevent the can from bursting.
- Using under-ripe bananas: They lack the necessary sweetness and flavor. Always use ripe, spotty bananas.
- Adding the whipped cream while the caramel is still warm: This will cause the cream to melt and deflate. Ensure all components are completely cool.
- Not chilling the pie long enough: A minimum of 3 hours is required for the pie to set properly for clean slices.
- Overworking the crust: Press it firmly, but do not compact it into a dense, hard layer.
Conclusion
Banoffee Pie is a stunning dessert that masterfully combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With its trio of textures—crunchy crust, unctuous caramel, soft bananas, and light cream—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently create this classic British treat that perfectly balances sweetness and richness. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!