Meet the Banana Cream Delight, a luscious dessert that combines creamy, dreamy layers with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the subtle crunch of graham crackers. It's the perfect treat for when you want something special yet straightforward to whip up. Whether it's a weekend indulgence or a sweet finish to a family dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Bananas: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Use ripe ones for the best flavor.
Heavy cream and milk: These create the rich, silky base for the custard. The heavy cream adds thickness, while the milk keeps it light enough to pour.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just right without overpowering the banana flavor.
Cornstarch: This is your thickening agent, ensuring the custard sets nicely.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance and balance the sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the custard, making it feel like a hug in a bowl.
Graham crackers: Crushed into crumbs, they form the crunchy base that complements the creamy layers.
Unsalted butter: When melted and mixed with graham cracker crumbs, it creates a flavorful, slightly salty contrast to the sweet custard.
Whipped cream: The crowning glory, it's the airy finish that ties everything together.
Lemon juice: Tossed with the bananas to prevent browning and add a hint of citrusy freshness.
This dessert is delightful on its own but can be elevated with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture. Serve it in individual glass cups for a fancy presentation at dinner parties, allowing guests to see the beautiful layers.
Start by setting up your workspace — it's always helpful to have everything at arm's reach. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures the cornstarch dissolves evenly, preventing any lumps in your custard.
Next, add the milk and heavy cream to the dry mix. Over medium heat, stir continuously. You'll notice the mixture begin to thicken; this is your cue that the custard is coming together. Once it's thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
While the custard cools, slice the bananas and toss them gently with lemon juice. This little trick keeps them looking fresh and adds a subtle zest.
Now, prepare your serving dish. Mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press it into the base of your dish to form a firm layer. It's like the foundation of a house — you want it sturdy.
Layer the banana slices over the graham base, then pour the cooled custard over the bananas. Repeat this layering process, finishing with a generous layer of whipped cream on top.
Pop the dish into the fridge to chill for at least two hours. This is important; it allows the flavors to meld and the custard to firm up nicely.
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