This banana pie is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavor of caramel with the sweetness of bananas, all encased in a tender, buttery cake. It’s perfect for a cozy family gathering or a special treat for yourself. The caramel adds a lovely depth of flavor, while the bananas provide a natural sweetness that complements the soft, moist cake.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Caramel:
- 1.5 cups sugar
- ½ cup hot water
For the Banana Cake:
- 3-4 bananas, sliced
- 2.5 cups sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups flour
- 2 cups milk
- 6 eggs
- Pinch of salt
- 1.5 tbsp baking powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a pan, melt 1.5 cups of sugar over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
- Carefully add ½ cup of hot water to the melted sugar, stirring constantly until smooth. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Pour the caramel into a baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 2.5 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the 6 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups of flour, a pinch of salt, and 1.5 tbsp of baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 2 cups of milk. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Arrange the sliced bananas over the caramel in the baking dish.
- Pour the cake batter evenly over the banana slices, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Invert the pie onto a serving plate so that the caramel and banana layer is on top.
- Enjoy the pie warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this banana pie 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 cozy dessert experience.
Cooking Tips:
- Be cautious when adding hot water to the melted sugar for the caramel; it will bubble vigorously.
- Make sure the butter is softened to ensure a smooth and well-mixed batter.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before inverting it to prevent the caramel from running.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, potassium, and vitamins.
- Eggs: Add protein and contribute to the cake’s structure.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the cake.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe contains no meat or fish products.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Deliciously Sweet: The combination of caramel and bananas creates a rich and satisfying flavor.
- Moist and Tender: The cake is soft and fluffy, making each bite a delight.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration, this pie is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar for the caramel?
- Yes, brown sugar can be used, but it will create a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
- What can I substitute for bananas if I’m not a fan?
- You can use sliced apples, pears, or even pineapple for a different flavor.
- Can I make this pie gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Can I freeze this banana pie?
- Yes, you can freeze the pie after it has completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- What type of baking dish is best for this pie?
- A round or rectangular baking dish with high sides is ideal to hold the caramel and batter.
- Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
- Yes, you can reduce the sugar in the batter by up to 1/2 cup without significantly affecting the texture.
- How can I prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan when inverting?
- Make sure to pour the caramel evenly and allow it to cool slightly before adding the bananas and batter.
- Is it necessary to invert the pie, or can I serve it directly from the baking dish?
- Inverting the pie allows the caramel and bananas to be on top, but you can serve it directly from the dish if you prefer.
- Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
- Yes, adding nuts or chocolate chips can add extra texture and flavor to the pie.