Introduction

Banana Sugar Crumb Pie is a delectable twist on traditional banana desserts, combining the rich flavors of ripe bananas with a crunchy, sugary crumb topping. This pie is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, boasting a golden crust and an inviting aroma.

As the layers of sweet, creamy banana filling meld with the crumb topping, every slice becomes a comforting nostalgic journey. Ideal for gatherings or a quiet evening at home, this pie elevates the classic banana experience into something truly special.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour serves as the base for the pie crust, providing structure and stability. It combines with fat to create a tender and flaky texture.
½ cup unsalted butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the crust. It also helps create a flaky texture when combined with flour, making the crust melt in your mouth.
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the crust while also contributing to browning during baking. It provides a hint of sweetness that balances the natural sugars in the bananas.
1/4 teaspoon salt
A small amount of salt enhances the flavors of the ingredients, helping to balance sweetness and elevate the overall taste of the pie.
2 to 3 ripe bananas
Ripe bananas are the star of this recipe, offering natural sweetness and moisture. Their flavors intensify during baking, creating a creamy filling.
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Sweetened condensed milk thickens the filling and provides a rich, creamy texture. Its sweetness complements the bananas perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract adds depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the sweetness of the bananas and the richness of the filling.
1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers
Crushed graham crackers form the crumb topping, adding crunch and a hint of nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the soft banana filling.
1/2 cup brown sugar
Brown sugar contributes moisture and a deeper, caramel-like flavor to the crumb topping, creating a delightful contrast to the smooth filling.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Ground cinnamon provides warmth and spice, elevating the overall flavor of the pie while complementing the sweetness of the bananas.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that your pie cooks evenly from the start. An oven that is too cool can lead to uneven cooking, affecting the texture and flavor of the finished pie.

Step 2: Prepare the pie crust by combining flour, butter, sugar, and salt.

Mixing these ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs is crucial for creating a flaky pie crust. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour, which creates those desirable layers.

Step 3: Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch pie pan evenly along the bottom and up the sides.

Evenly pressing the crust helps it cook uniformly and prevents it from shrinking during baking. Make sure it's compact so it holds up under the filling.

Step 4: Bake the pie crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.

Par-baking the crust before adding the filling provides a solid foundation and prevents a soggy bottom. You'll want it to be just set with a light golden hue.

Step 5: In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas well, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.

Mashing bananas thoroughly ensures a smooth filling. The sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor.

Step 6: Pour the banana mixture into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.

Even distribution ensures that every slice has the perfect amount of filling. This step is key to achieving a balanced flavor in each serving.

Step 7: In a separate bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping.

Mixing the dry ingredients for the topping separately helps to evenly distribute flavors. The mixture should resemble wet sand before spreading it on the filling.

Step 8: Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the banana filling.

Layering the topping evenly creates a satisfying crunch when the pie is baked. This step is essential for the textural contrast between the creamy filling and the crisp top.

Step 9: Bake the pie for another 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown.

Baking until golden gives the crumb topping a crunchy texture, which provides a delightful contrast to the soft filling. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 10: Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving.

Cooling allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice. Serving it chilled enhances the flavors and texture, making each bite refreshing.

Choosing the Right Bananas

The type of bananas you choose can significantly influence the flavor of your Banana Sugar Crumb Pie. Opt for bananas that are very ripe with lots of brown spots, as they offer the sweetest flavor and a smoother texture. These overripe bananas will caramelize beautifully during baking, enhancing the pie's overall taste.

Creating the Perfect Crumb Topping

The crumb topping elevates this pie, providing a delightful crunch against the smooth filling. For an extra twist, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or oats into the crumb mixture. This will not only add flavor but also create a heartier topping, making each bite more satisfying.

Storing and Serving Ideas

Once cooled, this pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish, serve slices with an extra dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the dessert experience. The colder temperature complements the banana flavors wonderfully and makes for a perfect summer treat.

FAQs

What can I do if the filling is too thick?

If you find the filling too thick, consider adding a splash of milk while mixing. This will help achieve a smoother consistency.

Why is my pie too sweet?

If the pie turns out overly sweet, it may be due to the ripeness of the bananas combined with the sweetened condensed milk. In the future, choose bananas that are ripe but not overly so to balance sweetness.

Can I use a different type of topping?

Yes, you can experiment with different toppings such as a spiced oat crumble or even a nut-based topping for added flavor and texture.

What if my crumb topping burned?

If your crumb topping burns, consider lowering the oven temperature next time and covering the pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your graham crackers are gluten-free.

How might I adjust this recipe for a smaller pie?

For a smaller pie, halve all the ingredients and use a smaller pie dish, such as a 6-inch or 7-inch, ensuring even baking times.

Conclusion

Banana Sugar Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity and flavor in an irresistible way. Perfect for any occasion, it offers not just taste but also a comforting nostalgia.

Your kitchen will be filled with delicious aromas, and each bite will be a celebration of sweet banana goodness. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this unforgettable pie for your loved ones.

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