When the sun begins to set and the days cool down, there's a special kind of comfort that draws me into the kitchen. This is the moment when I crave something sweet, something that feels like a warm hug with every bite. Enter The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie—a layered dream dessert that has become my go-to for gatherings and celebrations. Imagine a crunchy crust made from Biscoff and graham crackers, cradling a rich cheesecake layer, topped with fresh bananas and velvety vanilla custard, all drizzled with homemade caramel sauce. Each slice is a delightful journey of textures and flavors, perfectly suited for those who tire of the mundane and yearn for a show-stopping homemade treat. As I dish out this scrumptious pie, I can’t help but share the joy it brings—a true crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. Let’s dive into this recipe and bring a little magic to your dessert table!
Why You’ll Love This The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Irresistible layers: This pie features a deliciously rich cheesecake layer topped with smooth custard and fresh bananas, offering a delightful multi-layered experience.
Perfect for gatherings: It's sure to impress family and friends, making it the star of any celebration.
Quick prep options: Prefer to save time? Try the semi-homemade route with ready-made crust and cheesecake filling for a speedy version.
Flavorful combination: The fusion of sweet bananas, creamy cheese, and crunchy crust creates a symphony of taste and textures in every bite.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare components in advance, so you can focus on enjoying the moment when it's time to serve this stunning dessert.
The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• Crushed Graham Crackers – 2 cups for a sweet, crunchy base; try combining with Biscoff for added flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – 3 tablespoons to sweeten the crust; adjust to your liking!
• Unsalted Butter – 4 tablespoons, melted to bind the crust ingredients together effectively.
For the Cheesecake Layer
• Cream Cheese – 2 (8 oz) packages, at room temperature, for a rich and smooth cheesecake layer; full-fat is ideal for better texture.
• Eggs – 2 large, to act as a binder in the filling; room temperature helps for even mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 cup to sweeten the cream cheese layer deliciously.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon for a refreshing brightness that balances the richness.
For the Custard
• Whole Milk – 3 cups serves as the custard's silky base.
• Cornstarch – 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon, critical for thickening the custard; more can be used if needed.
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon balances the sweetness exceptionally.
• Eggs & Egg Yolk – 2 large eggs and 1 large yolk to enrich and thicken the custard further.
• Butter – 3 tablespoons, cut into pieces, adding creaminess to the custard.
• Additional Vanilla Extract – 1 tablespoon brings depth to the custard flavor.
For the Topping
• Heavy Whipping Cream – 1 1/2 cups used for the whipped topping, making it light and fluffy.
• Powdered Sugar – 2 tablespoons to sweeten the whipped cream perfectly.
For the Caramel Sauce
• Brown Sugar – 3/4 cup provides the rich sweetness for the caramel.
• Water – 1/4 cup to help dissolve the brown sugar.
• Lemon Juice – 1 teaspoon, reinforces flavor and prevents the caramel from crystallizing.
• Whipping Cream – 1/3 cup for a creamy finish to the sauce.
• Butter – 2 tablespoons to make the caramel sauce silky.
• Vanilla Extract – 1/2 teaspoon adds a lovely aroma and taste.
• Pinch of Salt – to enhance sweetness and depth of flavor.
Get ready to embark on a delightful journey with The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie Recipe!
How to Make The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring a perfect start for your crust.
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Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix 2 cups of crushed graham crackers (or a mix of Biscoff) with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Press this mixture firmly into a 10x2 inch pie plate. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
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Blend the Cheesecake Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 packages (8 oz each) of room temperature cream cheese, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake mixture into the cooled crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until set and slightly jiggly in the center. Allow to cool completely in the fridge.
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Cook the Custard: In a saucepan, whisk together 3 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened. Temper 2 large eggs and 1 egg yolk by mixing them with a small amount of the hot milk mixture, then stir back into the saucepan. Cook until gently boiling, then remove from heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
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Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream until peaks form. Fold in 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and refrigerate until needed.
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Make the Caramel Sauce: Combine 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in 1/3 cup of whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Allow to cool.
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Assemble the Pie: Layer sliced bananas (6-7 medium-sized) vertically on top of the cheesecake layer. Pour the cooled custard over the bananas and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to set.
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Serve with Toppings: Before serving, top with whipped cream and drizzle with the cooled caramel sauce for a stunning presentation.
Optional: Garnish with additional banana slices for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
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Quality Ingredients: Always use full-fat cream cheese and fresh bananas for a rich flavor and optimal texture; low-fat options won't yield the same result.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cheesecake layer to cool completely in the fridge before adding the custard; this helps keep the layers distinct and prevents melting.
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Thickening Custard: Stir constantly while cooking the custard and avoid rushing the process; it needs time to thicken properly for the best results in your pie.
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Banana Freshness: To prevent browning, slice bananas just before assembly and consider brushing them lightly with lemon juice.
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Chill Time: Don't skip the recommended 6-hour chilling time after assembling; it allows all the layers to meld beautifully together in this Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie recipe.
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Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, top with whipped cream and a drizzle of homemade caramel just before serving.
What to Serve with The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie?
Complement your pie's dreamy layers with a variety of delightful additions that enhance every bite.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries offer a tart contrast, brightening each slice and adding a burst of color to your plate.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream not only looks enticing but adds a light and airy texture that balances the pie's richness.
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Chocolate Ice Cream: Indulge in a scoop of chocolate ice cream on the side for a luxurious combination of flavors; the creaminess pairs beautifully with the pie.
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Coconut Flake Topping: Toasted coconut flakes add crunch and a tropical twist. Simply sprinkle on top for an appealing garnish that surprises your taste buds.
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Caramel Drizzle: Serve with extra homemade caramel sauce for those who like a burst of sweetness with each bite. It's a dreamy pairing that enhances the overall experience.
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Mint Sprigs: A few fresh mint leaves can elevate your presentation while imparting a refreshing note that complements the creamy pie.
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Hot Coffee: For a warm drink option, serve alongside a rich cup of coffee; its boldness enhances and contrasts the pie’s sweetness.
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Mini Fruit Tarts: Pairing with small fruit tarts can create a beautiful dessert spread, enticing everyone to try a little bit of everything.
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Sparkling Water: For a refreshing beverage, sparkling water with a slice of lemon offers a crisp palate cleanser between bites.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence, perfect for chocolate lovers craving a sweet finish.
Make Ahead Options
The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie is a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and cheesecake layer up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a firm base by refrigerating the cheesecake completely after baking. Additionally, the custard can be made up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container and cover its surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Slice the bananas right before assembly to keep them fresh, or brush them with lemon juice to prevent browning. When you're ready to serve, simply layer the bananas, pour the custard over, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours for perfect set layers. Enjoy stress-free entertaining with this beautiful dessert ready with minimal final effort!
How to Store and Freeze The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie
Fridge: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Components Storage: You can prepare the crust and the cheesecake layer in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days; assemble before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Reheating: While this recipe is best served cold, you can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, but be careful not to overheat. Enjoy your delightful The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie!
The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and adapt this recipe to suit your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use coconut milk for the custard for a delicious dairy-free version.
- Chocolate Delight: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the banana layer instead of caramel for a rich and indulgent twist.
- Nutty Crust: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the crust mixture for an extra crunch and flavor boost, creating a delightful texture in every bite.
- Banana Boost: Mash one of the bananas into the custard mixture for a more pronounced banana flavor throughout the pie.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard for a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the overall dessert profile.
- Berry Burst: Layer in fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries alongside the bananas for added tartness and color, making each slice an eye-catching treat.
- Instant Twist: Use a box of instant vanilla pudding in place of the homemade custard for a super quick preparation that still tastes delightful.
- Salted Caramel: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a sophisticated salted caramel experience that perfectly balances the sweetness.
The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for the pie?
I recommend using barely ripe bananas for the filling, as they offer the perfect sweetness and texture while minimizing browning. Overripe bananas can add too much softness and sweetness, making the pie less appealing.
How should I store the pie after making it?
Absolutely! Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 2 days. This helps keep it fresh and prevents it from drying out.
Can I freeze The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie?
Yes, you can freeze this pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 1 month. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the pie overnight in the fridge for the best results.
What if my custard doesn’t thicken properly?
If your custard isn't thickening, make sure you're stirring constantly during cooking and that you're on medium heat. If it doesn’t thicken after about 10 minutes, you might need to whisk in an additional tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water. Once added, cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the crust and cheesecake layer a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the pie with the custard and bananas just before serving for the freshest and most beautiful layers.
Is this pie suitable for those with allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, I recommend considering a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and using a vegan butter substitute for the crust. Always double-check labels to ensure all components meet your dietary needs.
Irresistibly Indulgent: The Dodo Banana Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix 2 cups of crushed graham crackers with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Press into a 10x2 inch pie plate and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Combine 2 packages of cream cheese, 2 eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture into the cooled crust. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until set. Allow to cool completely in the fridge.
- In a saucepan, whisk together 3 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened. Temper the eggs by mixing with a small amount of hot milk, then stir back and cook until gently boiling. Stir in butter and vanilla extract before removing from heat.
- Whip 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream until peaks form, then fold in 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and refrigerate.
- For caramel sauce, combine 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in 1/3 cup of whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Allow to cool.
- Layer sliced bananas on top of the cheesecake layer, pour the cooled custard over, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce.
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