This caramel banana pie is a deliciously decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramelized bananas with a moist and fluffy cake-like batter. Perfect for a sweet treat after dinner or for special occasions, this pie is a wonderful way to indulge in a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The caramelized bananas add a luscious sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soft, tender crumb of the batter, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible.
Bananas, with their natural sweetness and creamy texture, are elevated to new heights when caramelized. The process of caramelization brings out the deep, complex sugars in the bananas, resulting in a rich, toffee-like flavor that is both luxurious and satisfying. When this rich banana mixture is enveloped in a light, fluffy batter, the result is a pie that is both elegant and homely – a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 80 g sugar
- 100 ml water
- 4 bananas
- 3 eggs
- 120 g sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 150 g flour
- 8 g baking powder
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Caramel
- In a saucepan, combine 80 g of sugar and 100 ml of water.
- Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns into a golden caramel. Be careful not to burn the caramel.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bananas
- Peel and slice 2 bananas.
- Arrange the banana slices on the bottom of a greased pie dish.
Step 3: Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, beat 3 eggs with 120 g of sugar and 1/2 tsp of salt until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Gradually add 150 g of flour and 8 g of baking powder to the egg mixture, mixing until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Pour half of the batter over the banana slices in the pie dish.
- Peel and slice the remaining 2 bananas and arrange them over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter over the banana slices, ensuring an even layer.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the pie to cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Possible Questions
1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar for the caramel?
- Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar to give the caramel a richer flavor.
2. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
- Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a great addition to the batter or as a topping.
3. Can I use gluten-free flour?
- Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
4. What other fruits can I use instead of bananas?
- Apples or pears can be used as an alternative, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be different.
5. Can I make this pie in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 8 servings)
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 43g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 4g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements.
Conclusion
This pie is versatile enough to be served at a variety of occasions. It’s an excellent choice for a casual family dinner, where it can be the perfect sweet ending to a meal. It also shines at special events and gatherings, impressing guests with its beautiful presentation and delectable taste. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone will be reaching for seconds.
One of the best aspects of this caramel banana pie is its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are uncomplicated, making it an accessible recipe for bakers of all skill levels. The process of making this pie is enjoyable and stress-free, allowing you to take pleasure in creating something special from scratch. As you prepare and bake the pie, you’ll experience the satisfaction of transforming humble ingredients into a dessert masterpiece.