Old-Fashioned Banana Cream Pie

Directions

1️⃣ Prepare the Pie Shell

1. Bake your 9-inch pie crust according to package or homemade instructions. Let it cool completely before filling.

2️⃣ Make the Custard Filling

1. In a large saucepan, scald the milk (heat until just below boiling point, with small bubbles forming around the edges).
2. In another saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Gradually pour the scalded milk into the flour mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
5. Cover and cook for 2 minutes longer, stirring occasionally to ensure smoothness.

3️⃣ Temper the Egg Yolks

1. In a small bowl, beat the 3 egg yolks lightly.
2. Slowly add a small amount of the hot custard mixture into the yolks, whisking quickly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
3. Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the custard.
4. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly until thick and smooth.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Let the custard cool slightly until lukewarm.

4️⃣ Assemble the Pie

1. Slice the bananas and layer them evenly over the cooled pie crust.
2. Pour the warm custard mixture over the bananas, spreading it out evenly to cover.
3. Smooth the top with a spatula. You can serve as-is or top with meringue or whipped cream for extra richness.

5️⃣ Cool and Serve