If you love the irresistible combination of bananas, caramel, and cream, you are going to absolutely adore this Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe. It takes all the charm of the classic banoffee pie and transforms it into a delightfully easy, no-bake individual dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Layered with crunchy graham cracker crust, luscious dulce de leche, fresh banana slices, and fluffy whipped cream, each spoonful feels like a mini celebration of textures and flavors that will have you craving more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, with every ingredient playing a crucial role in building those perfect layers of flavor and texture. From the buttery crunch of the graham cracker crust to the smooth richness of the dulce de leche, it’s a simple lineup that comes together beautifully in no time.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crisp, buttery base that adds essential texture to the parfaits.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the graham cracker crumbs, creating a solid and flavorful crust.
- 1 cup dulce de leche or canned caramel: Offers the signature sweet and creamy caramel flavor that elevates the dessert.
- 2 large bananas (sliced): Fresh, ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and a refreshing fruit element.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks, adding lightness and luscious creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream subtly without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the whipped cream with a warm and inviting aroma.
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional, for garnish): Adds an elegant finishing touch that pairs wonderfully with caramel and banana.
How to Make Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust Layer
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a small bowl until every crumb is coated with that rich buttery goodness. Then, press a few spoonfuls firmly into the bottom of each serving glass. This step forms the crunchy foundation that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers to come.
Step 2: Whip the Cream to Perfection
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it forms soft peaks. This whipped cream isn’t just a fluffy topping; it brings a velvety texture and subtle sweetness that ties all the components together harmoniously.
Step 3: Layer the Parfaits
Begin layering by spooning a generous amount of dulce de leche over the crust. Next, add a layer of fresh banana slices to balance the sweetness with their natural fruitiness. Follow that with a dollop of your freshly whipped cream. If your glasses are tall, go ahead and repeat the layers for an impressive presentation packed with flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Top and Chill
Finish each parfait with an extra swirl of whipped cream. For an elegant final touch, drizzle a little more caramel on top and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder. Pop the parfaits into the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld perfectly before serving.
How to Serve Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes transform these parfaits from simple desserts into showstoppers. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings adds a beautiful texture contrast and a hint of bittersweet flavor, while dusting with cocoa powder gives a sophisticated look. Fresh mint leaves offer a pop of color and refreshing aroma that pairs surprisingly well with the caramel and banana.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own, but if you want to create a full treat experience, pair it with a strong cup of coffee or a light, fragrant tea. A small bowl of fresh berries on the side adds brightness and balances the richness, creating a well-rounded conclusion to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe in clear mason jars or short stemmed glasses to showcase the layers beautifully. You can also add a layer of crushed nuts or coconut flakes for an extra texture boost. Try mini dessert spoons tied with ribbons for special occasions—these little touches elevate the experience and make it feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them covered tightly in the fridge for up to 2 days. The crust may soften slightly, but the flavors will stay just as delicious. Stir gently before serving to refresh the parfait.
Freezing
This parfait is best enjoyed fresh and chilled rather than frozen. Freezing can alter the texture of the whipped cream and bananas, making it less enjoyable. However, if you must freeze, do so for no longer than one week and thaw slowly in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, serve directly from the refrigerator to enjoy the perfect blend of cool creaminess and luscious caramel flavors.
FAQs
Can I use regular caramel sauce instead of dulce de leche?
Absolutely! While dulce de leche has a unique richness, regular caramel sauce works well too and still provides that lovely sweet, buttery flavor central to the Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe.
How do I prevent bananas from browning in the parfait?
To keep your banana slices fresh and appealing, toss them lightly with a little lemon juice before layering. This small trick slows oxidation and keeps the bananas looking bright and inviting.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and look for dairy-free caramel options to make a vegan-friendly version. The graham cracker crust may also need to be swapped for a vegan variety. It’s a delicious alternative worth exploring!
What is the best type of banana to use?
Choose ripe yet firm bananas. Overripe bananas will be too mushy and may alter the texture of your parfait, while under-ripe ones might lack the sweetness that makes this dessert so delightful.
Can I assemble the parfaits in advance for a party?
Definitely! These parfaits can be assembled a few hours ahead of time and chilled until serving. Just add garnishes like whipped cream and chocolate shavings right before guests arrive to keep them looking fresh.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend the Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe enough if you’re looking for a no-fuss, show-stopping dessert. It is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Give these parfaits a try and discover how such simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and utterly delicious.
Print
Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus 30 minutes chilling
- Yield: 4 parfaits 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these easy-to-make Banoffee Pie Parfaits, which skillfully combine the classic flavors of graham cracker crust, luscious dulce de leche caramel, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped cream into individual no-bake desserts perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Filling and Topping
- 1 cup dulce de leche or canned caramel
- 2 large bananas, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press a few spoonfuls of this mixture firmly into the bottom of each serving glass to create a sturdy crust layer.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble the parfait layers: Spoon a layer of dulce de leche over the crust in each glass, followed by a layer of banana slices. Next, add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. If your glasses are tall, repeat these layers to fill the glass.
- Finishing touches: Top each parfait with an extra spoonful of whipped cream, drizzle with additional caramel if desired, and garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder for added flavor and presentation.
- Chill before serving: Place the assembled parfaits in the refrigerator and chill them for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set nicely before serving.
Notes
- To prevent bananas from browning, toss them lightly with a little lemon juice before layering.
- You can use store-bought dulce de leche for convenience, or make your own by simmering a can of sweetened condensed milk until it thickens and caramelizes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: British
