These No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies are the perfect handheld treat—creamy, dreamy, and full of nostalgic flavor! With layers of buttery graham cracker crust, fresh bananas, and a silky banana-vanilla cream filling, they’re topped with homemade whipped cream and a touch of flair. Perfect for parties, picnics, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing dessert without turning on the oven.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No baking required—ideal for hot days
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Individual portions make it party-ready
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Sweet, creamy filling with fresh banana flavor
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Easy to customize with toppings
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Kid-friendly and great for make-ahead dessert planning
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Crust:
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Graham cracker crumbs (1½ cups):
Forms the base with a buttery, sweet crunch. -
Granulated sugar (3 tbsp):
Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust. -
Unsalted butter, melted (6 tbsp):
Binds the crust and adds richness. -
Pinch of salt:
Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Filling:
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Instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz):
The creamy, easy base for the banana cream. -
Whole milk (1½ cups):
Adds richness and helps the pudding set. -
Vanilla extract (1 tsp):
Boosts flavor with warm, aromatic depth. -
Ripe bananas (2, sliced):
Bring classic banana cream flavor and texture.
For the Whipped Cream:
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Heavy cream (1 cup):
Whipped into a light, fluffy topping. -
Powdered sugar (2 tbsp):
Sweetens the whipped cream just enough.
Optional Garnishes:
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Banana slices, whipped cream:
For presentation and added flavor. -
Shaved chocolate, cinnamon, crushed nuts:
Adds texture, visual appeal, and a gourmet touch.
Tips and Tricks
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Use fully ripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
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Silicone molds or cupcake liners make removal easier.
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Don’t skip the chill time—it helps the pies firm up properly.
Variations and Customizations
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Use chocolate or vanilla wafer crusts for a twist.
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Add a thin layer of peanut butter under the banana slices.
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Use banana pudding mix instead of vanilla for extra banana flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with iced coffee, sweet tea, or sparkling lemonade.
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Add a fruit salad or light yogurt parfait on the side for brunch.
Storage Instructions
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Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
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Not recommended for freezing due to the banana texture.
Popular Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them the night before and chill overnight.
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Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely. Substitute with 1 cup of Cool Whip if you prefer.
Do I need to strain the pudding?
No straining necessary, just whisk well until smooth.
No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 mini pies 1x
Description
Bite-sized bliss! Graham crust, fresh bananas & silky banana-vanilla cream, crowned with whipped topping—easy, nostalgic, and so cute!
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Ingredients
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1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
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3 tablespoons granulated sugar
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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Pinch of salt
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1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
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1½ cups whole milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 ripe bananas, sliced
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 tablespoons powdered sugar
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Additional banana slices
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Whipped cream
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Shaved chocolate, crushed nuts, or cinnamon
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
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In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt.
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Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
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Press about one tablespoon of the mixture into each mini muffin tin or tart pan.
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Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Banana Filling
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In a bowl, whisk instant pudding mix with milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
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Stir in vanilla extract and set aside.
3. Make Whipped Cream
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In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold whipped cream into the pudding mixture to create a light banana cream.
4. Assemble the Mini Pies
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Place banana slices at the bottom of each crust.
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Spoon the banana cream filling over the banana layer and smooth the tops.
5. Chill the Pies
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Garnish and Serve
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Before serving, top with whipped cream, banana slices, or other garnishes like chocolate or nuts.
Notes
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This no-bake dessert is ideal for summer, entertaining, or anytime you need a make-ahead treat.
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For best results, serve chilled and enjoy within a couple of days for peak freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
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