Banana Cream Dessert

Ingredients

**For the Crust:**
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

**For the Filling:**
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 5 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced

**For the Topping:**
– 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Additional banana slices for garnish
– Crushed graham crackers for garnish

Instructions

1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
– Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or pie dish.
– Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.

2. **Prepare the Filling:**
– In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth.
– Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
– Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble.
– Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
– Let the custard cool slightly.

3. **Assemble the Dessert:**
– Arrange a layer of banana slices on the cooled graham cracker crust.
– Pour the cooled custard over the bananas, spreading it evenly.
– Add another layer of banana slices on top of the custard.

4. **Prepare the Topping:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
– Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the dessert.

5. **Garnish:**
– Garnish with additional banana slices and crushed graham crackers.

6. **Chill:**
– Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or until set.

7. **Serve:**
– Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious banana cream dessert!

This creamy and delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!