Name: No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: PT-484903H53M
Ingredients: For the crust:; 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 6 tbsp melted butter; Pinch of salt; For the filling:; 2 cups whole milk; 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; For assembly:; 2 medium bananas, sliced; Cinnamon for dusting (optional)

No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies: Irresistibly Creamy & Dreamy Dessert Delights 🍌🥧💛

1. Introduction

Looking for a fuss-free dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort? These No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies are your answer! Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you crave a cool, creamy treat without turning on the oven. With a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and fluffy whipped cream, these individual desserts are guaranteed to impress. If you love easy dessert recipes, this will quickly become a favorite in your collection.

Finished No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies with banana slices and cinnamon garnish.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no bake banana cream pie recipe checks all the boxes: quick preparation (ready in under 30 minutes), beginner-friendly techniques, and crowd-pleasing results. The mini portions make serving effortless, and the combination of textures – crunchy crust, velvety pudding, and airy whipped cream – creates dessert perfection. Plus, it’s easily customizable with different toppings or crust variations. For more baking inspiration, check out our collection of easy recipes that anyone can master.

3. Ingredients

For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp melted butter (unsalted works best)
• Pinch of salt (enhances all the flavors)

For the filling:
• 2 cups whole milk (for richest texture)
• 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste for extra flavor)

For assembly:
• 2 medium ripe bananas, sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)
• Cinnamon for dusting (optional but recommended)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

4. Equipment Needed

• 12-cup standard muffin tin (or mini tart pans)
• Mixing bowls (various sizes)
• Whisk (for smooth pudding)
• Electric mixer (hand or stand)
• Measuring cups/spoons (for accuracy)
• Spatula (rubber works best)
• Piping bag with star tip (optional but pretty)
• Small offset spatula (for smoothing)

If you’re new to my kitchen, you’ll find that these are basic tools most home bakers already have on hand.

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Pour in melted butter gradually while mixing with a fork until the crumbs are evenly moistened and hold together when pressed. The mixture should resemble wet sand – if it’s too dry, add another tablespoon of melted butter. This crust technique works for many no-bake desserts beyond just these pies.

Crushed graham crackers and melted butter mixed for No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies crust.

Step 2: Form the Mini Crusts

Divide the mixture evenly among 12 muffin cups (about 2 tablespoons per cup). Press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides using the back of a spoon or small glass. The more compacted the crust, the better it will hold together. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to set while you prepare the filling. This chilling step is crucial for that perfect texture contrast.

Muffin tin with graham cracker crust for No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Pudding

In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk and pudding mix over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly with a wire whisk to prevent lumps, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. For extra creaminess, you can stir in a tablespoon of softened cream cheese.

Vanilla pudding mixture cooking on the stove for No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies.

Step 4: Assemble and Decorate

Place 2-3 banana slices in each chilled crust (if making ahead, brush slices with lemon juice to prevent browning). Spoon pudding over bananas, filling each cup nearly to the top. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form (chill your bowl and beaters first for best results). Pipe or dollop whipped cream over each pie using a star tip for bakery-style presentation. Garnish with additional banana slices and a dusting of cinnamon if desired. For professional results like those in this Facebook post, take your time with the decorating. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Whipped cream being piped onto No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies with banana slices.

6. Expert Tips

• For extra banana flavor, add ½ teaspoon of banana extract to the pudding or mash 1/4 banana into the pudding mixture
• Toast your graham cracker crumbs for 5 minutes at 350°F for deeper, nuttier flavor
• Prevent browning by brushing banana slices with lemon juice or pineapple juice
• Make ahead tip: Prepare components separately and assemble 1 hour before serving
• For special occasions, drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate ganache
• If you love these, you might enjoy our other brunch-friendly desserts that are equally impressive

7. Variations

Crust alternatives: Try vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or Oreos for different flavor profiles
Flavor twists: Add chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, peanut butter swirls, or toasted coconut
Dietary adjustments: Use gluten-free cookies and dairy-free milk alternatives for special diets
Seasonal variations: Top with fresh berries in summer or spiced whipped cream in fall
Adult version: Add a tablespoon of banana liqueur or rum to the pudding

These variations make this recipe versatile enough for any dinner party or special occasion.

8. Storage Instructions

Store assembled no bake banana cream pies in the refrigerator covered loosely with plastic wrap for up to 2 days (best when fresh). The crust may soften over time. For longer storage (up to 3 days), keep components separate: crusts in an airtight container at room temperature, pudding covered with plastic wrap touching the surface in the fridge, whipped cream in a piping bag in the fridge, and sliced bananas tossed with citrus juice in a separate container. Assemble when ready to serve for optimal texture. These don’t freeze well due to the banana and cream components.

9. Conclusion

These No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies deliver all the nostalgic flavor of the classic dessert in adorable individual portions that are perfect for parties or portion control. With their creamy texture, fresh banana flavor, and crisp crust, they’re guaranteed to become your new go-to easy dessert. Whether you’re serving them after a light summer salad dinner or as the star of your dessert table, this no bake banana cream pie recipe proves that sometimes the simplest desserts make the biggest impact. The mini size makes them perfect for potlucks, baby showers, or just treating yourself. Happy no-bake baking!

If you’re interested in more recipes or collaboration opportunities, don’t hesitate to reach out. And for those who love comforting classics, our soup recipes pair wonderfully with these light desserts for a complete meal experience.