Best Banoffee Pie Recipe - A Perfect Blend of Banana and Toffee Bliss

Banoffee pie is a classic British dessert that combines the rich, indulgent flavors of bananas, toffee, whipped cream, and a buttery biscuit base. Loved for its simplicity and irresistible taste, this no-bake pie is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this detailed guide will show you how to create the best banoffee pie step by step.

What Is Banoffee Pie?

Banoffee pie gets its name from the combination of banana and toffee. Originating in England in the 1970s, it has since become a global favorite for its balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures. The pie consists of a biscuit or graham cracker crust, a smooth layer of caramel-like toffee, sliced bananas, and a generous topping of whipped cream.

Ingredients for the Best Banoffee Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to create a delicious homemade banoffee pie:

For the Crust:

• 250g (2 cups) digestive biscuits or graham crackers

• 100g (7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted

For the Toffee Layer:

• 400g (1 can) sweetened condensed milk

• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter

• 100g (1/2 cup) brown sugar

For the Topping:

• 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced

• 300ml (1 1/4 cups) heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Grated chocolate or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Banoffee Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Base

1. Crush the digestive biscuits or graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or a sealed bag and rolling pin.

2. Mix the melted butter with the crumbs until the texture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the mixture into the base of a 9-inch round pie dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.

4. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Make the Toffee Layer

1. In a saucepan over low-medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and stir continuously to prevent burning.

3. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens and turns into a golden, caramel-like toffee. Do not overcook.

4. Pour the toffee over the chilled biscuit base, spreading it evenly.

5. Return the pie to the fridge to allow the toffee to set for about 1 hour.

Step 3: Add the Banana and Cream Layers

1. Once the toffee has set, layer the sliced bananas evenly over the toffee.

2. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

3. Spread the whipped cream over the banana layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. For a finishing touch, sprinkle grated chocolate or cocoa powder over the top of the whipped cream.

2. Chill the banoffee pie for at least 30 minutes before serving to let all the flavors meld together.

3. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Banoffee Pie

• Prevent Bananas from Browning: Lightly brush the banana slices with lemon juice to keep them fresh and vibrant.

• Make Ahead: Banoffee pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

• Whip the Cream Gently: Avoid over-whipping the cream, as it can become grainy.

• Experiment with the Base: Substitute digestive biscuits with chocolate cookies or shortbread for a twist.

Variations to Try

1. Chocolate Banoffee Pie: Add a layer of melted chocolate over the toffee for a richer dessert.

2. Nutty Banoffee Pie: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the banana layer for added crunch.

3. Coffee Banoffee Pie: Mix a teaspoon of espresso powder into the toffee for a subtle coffee flavor.

4. No-Banana Version: Replace bananas with strawberries or sliced peaches for a fresh twist.

Final Thoughts

Banoffee pie is a decadent and easy-to-make dessert that never fails to impress. With its buttery crust, gooey toffee, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Follow this recipe, and you’ll have a delicious homemade banoffee pie ready to enjoy in no time. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or as a special treat, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite!