Ready for a healthy banana dessert that’s quick and delicious? These Vegan Banana Cream Pie Jars offer all the creamy comfort of a classic pie without the fuss. You’ll love how easy it is to assemble this satisfying treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for natural sweetness and creamy texture.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Almond or cashew milk works best.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the filling; arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor.
- Vegan Graham Crackers: Crushed for the crust. Use gluten-free graham crackers if desired.
Ingredients:
For the Vegan Banana Cream Filling:
- 2 ripe medium bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ cups non-dairy milk (almond or cashew)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 cup vegan graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted vegan butter or coconut oil
For Assembly:
- 1-2 ripe bananas, sliced
- Vegan whipped topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Small saucepan, mixing bowls, 4 small jars (8-10 oz each)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted vegan butter or coconut oil in a small bowl. Press about 2 tablespoons of this mixture firmly into the bottom of each of your four jars. Set these aside.
2. Cook the Vegan Banana Cream Filling
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the mashed bananas, non-dairy milk, maple syrup, cornstarch, and salt. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a creamy pudding, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Assemble the Banana Cream Pie Jars
Spoon about half of the warm banana cream filling evenly into the prepared jars, layering it over the graham cracker crust. Arrange a layer of fresh banana slices on top of the filling in each jar. Spoon the remaining banana cream filling over the banana slices.
4. Chill the Jars
Cover the jars and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is completely set and chilled. This allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, top your Vegan Banana Cream Pie Jars with a dollop of vegan whipped topping, if you like. These make a delightful healthy banana dessert ready to enjoy.
Variation Ideas:
- Chocolate Layer: Add a layer of melted vegan chocolate or chocolate chips between the crust and filling.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the graham cracker crust for added texture.
- Spiced Filling: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the banana cream filling.
- Fruit Topping: Garnish with other fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Vegan Banana Cream Pie Jars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown slightly over time, but the dessert will still be delicious. It’s best enjoyed fresh within a day or two.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these jars up to 2 days in advance. Just note that the fresh banana slices might slightly brown, though they will still taste great.
What kind of non-dairy milk works best?
Almond milk or cashew milk are recommended for their neutral flavor and creamy texture. Soy milk also works well.
Can you use a different type of sweetener?
You can use granulated sugar or coconut sugar as a substitute for maple syrup, adjusting to your taste.
How do you prevent the bananas from browning?
A squeeze of lemon juice over the sliced bananas can help prevent browning, but it might alter the flavor slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
Can you omit the graham cracker crust?
Absolutely! For an even healthier banana dessert, you can omit the crust entirely and just enjoy the creamy banana filling.
