- Granulated Sugar (1 cup for bananas, 1/2 cup for cream)
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons)
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon)
- Eggs (4)
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)
- Butter (5 tablespoons)
- Graham Cracker Crumbs (2 cups)
- Ghee or Vegetable Oil (3-4 tablespoons for greasing)
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Steps
## How to Make a Bakers Dozen of Banana Cream Pies: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're looking to impress your friends and family with a delicious treat or planning to bake as a fun weekend activity, making a bakers dozen (13) banana cream pies is the perfect choice. This classic dessert combines the creamy sweetness of bananas and vanilla with the flaky layers of pie crusts. Follow these detailed steps for an outstanding result that's sure to be a hit.
### Ingredients
- **For the Crust:**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
- **For the Filling:**
- 6 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 7 egg yolks
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- **For the Crème Fraîche Whipped Cream Topping:**
- 1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
### Equipment Needed
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
- Pie crust cutter (optional)
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
### Steps to Make the Banana Cream Pies
#### Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. **Add Butter:** Cut in the butter using a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Add Water:** Gradually add ice water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. You may not need all the water; use it sparingly to avoid a too-wet dough.
4. **Shape and Chill:** Divide the dough in half, form each into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. **Cook Bananas:** In a large pan, heat sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
2. **Add Egg Yolks:** Whisk in egg yolks one at a time until smooth.
3. **Incorporate Cream Cheese:** Stir in the softened cream cheese until well combined.
4. **Fold in Heavy Cream:** Gently fold in the heavy whipping cream to create a smooth, creamy mixture.
#### Step 3: Assemble and Bake
1. **Roll Out Crusts:** On a floured surface, roll out each disc of dough into circles large enough to fit your pie pans (about 9 inches).
2. **Fill Pans:** Place one crust in the bottom of each pie pan. Spoon banana mixture over the crust, leaving a little space around the edges.
3. **Top with Crusts:** Cover each filling with another crust, pressing the edges together and crimping to seal.
4. **Cut Holes:** Use a fork or knife to cut small holes on top of each pie for venting.
#### Step 4: Baking
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Bake Pies:** Place pies on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
3. **Cool Completely:** Let the pies cool completely before serving.
#### Step 5: Make the Crème Fraîche Topping
1. **Whip Whipped Cream:** In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, whip crème fraiche with powdered sugar and salt until stiff peaks form.
2. **Apply Top Layer:** Dollop whipped cream on top of each cooled pie before serving.
### Tips for Perfect Results
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to get the best texture in your crusts and fillings.
- Use fresh, ripe bananas; they should be soft enough to easily slice but not so overripe that they are mushy.
- Don't overbake the pies as this can lead to a dry or tough texture.
### Conclusion
With these detailed steps and tips, you're well on your way to baking a bakers dozen of delicious banana cream pies. Impress your guests with this classic dessert and enjoy the satisfaction of creating such an elegant treat from scratch. Happy baking!
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By following these SEO-friendly instructions, you can ensure that making your banana cream pies not only turns out perfectly but also impresses others with both taste and presentation.