Hey y'all! If you're craving a delightful, creamy dessert that's just as perfect for a summer picnic as it is for a cozy night in, these Banana Cream Pie Jars are going to become your new favorite treat. They combine all the classic flavors of banana cream pie—crunchy graham cracker crust, rich vanilla pudding, sweet banana slices, and fluffy whipped cream—served in adorable, portable jars. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just because, these jars are always a hit. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Banana Cream Pie Jars Recipe
- No baking required, so it’s quick, easy, and perfect for hot days.
- Individually portioned jars mean stress-free serving and zero messy slices.
- Creamy layers and fresh bananas deliver that nostalgic pie flavor in every bite.
- Perfect make-ahead dessert—just chill and grab when ready to serve.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.
Ingredients for Banana Cream Pie Jars
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
- Optional: extra graham cracker crumbs, banana slices, or whipped cream for topping
How to Make Banana Cream Pie Jars
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Base
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each of 6 (8-ounce) jars. Press gently to form an even crust layer.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Pudding Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix for about 2 minutes until thickened. Let set for 5 minutes in the fridge.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
- In a separate chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium-high until stiff peaks form (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 4: Assemble the Banana Cream Pie Jars
- Add a layer of banana slices over the graham cracker crust in each jar.
- Spoon a generous layer of vanilla pudding over the bananas.
- Add another layer of banana slices and top with whipped cream.
- Finish with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs and a banana slice or two if desired.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover jars with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours) before serving for best flavor and texture.
Notes for Perfect Banana Cream Pie Jars
- For even more flavor, try using homemade graham crackers in your crust.
- To prevent banana browning, lightly coat slices with lemon juice before layering.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, use less sugar in the whipped cream or pudding layer.
Banana Cream Pie Jar Variations
- Chocolate Banana Cream Pie Jars: Add a layer of chocolate pudding or sprinkle mini chocolate chips between layers.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the graham cracker crust for a toasty flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
Required Equipment for Banana Cream Pie Jars
- 6 (8-ounce) mason jars or small glass containers
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula and spoon
Banana Cream Pie Jars Storage Instructions
Store assembled Banana Cream Pie Jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, add the top banana layer and whipped cream just before serving to keep bananas fresh and prevent sogginess. These jars are not freezer-friendly, as bananas and whipped cream do not thaw well.
Serving Recommendations & Pairings for Banana Cream Pie Jars
Serve these jars chilled straight from the fridge. Pair with a cup of hot coffee, iced tea, or a classic vanilla milkshake for the ultimate retro dessert experience. They also make a fun addition to dessert bars at parties or cookouts!
Pro Tips for Banana Cream Pie Jars Success
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for the fluffiest texture (learn more here).
- Layer bananas just before serving for the freshest look and taste.
- For portable treats, use jars with secure lids to prevent spills during transport.
Banana Cream Pie Jars FAQ
- Can I make Banana Cream Pie Jars ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble the jars up to 24 hours in advance. Add the final banana and whipped cream layers just before serving for best results.
- Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade?
- Absolutely! Store-bought whipped topping works fine and saves a bit of prep time.
- How do I keep bananas from turning brown?
- Lightly tossing banana slices with lemon juice before layering helps prevent browning.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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1In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
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2Divide the crumb mixture evenly among 6 small jars, pressing lightly to form the crust layer.
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3In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
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4Slice the bananas and layer a few slices over the graham cracker crust in each jar.
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5Spoon the pudding over the banana slices, dividing evenly among the jars.
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6In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Top each jar with whipped cream and garnish with extra banana slices if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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