No-Bake Banoffee Pie Recipe (Easy Banana Caramel Dessert)

No-Bake Banoffee Pie
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I’m just going to say it: no-bake banoffee pie is my secret weapon.
When I need a dessert that looks impressive, tastes ridiculous, and doesn’t ask me to turn on the oven (or test my patience), this is the one I reach for.

The first time I made it, I expected polite compliments. Instead, people went quiet. Forks paused mid-air. Someone asked if I bought it. That’s when I knew this recipe earned permanent status.

If you love banana, caramel, whipped cream, and buttery crust—and if you enjoy desserts that feel fancy without actually being hard—pull up a chair. This one’s for you.


Why No-Bake Banoffee Pie Works Every Single Time

Traditional banoffee pie already feels approachable. The no-bake version? Even better. No water baths. No caramel panic. No oven math.

Here’s why it never fails me:

  • Texture contrast keeps every bite interesting
  • Cold setting time replaces baking stress
  • Simple ingredients do all the heavy lifting
  • Assembly beats technique (my favorite kind of cooking)

Ever noticed how the best desserts usually come down to layering? This one absolutely gets that memo.


My Personal Banoffee Backstory (Quick, I Promise)

I didn’t grow up eating banoffee pie. I discovered it later, during a phase where I said yes to every dessert recipe that involved caramel. Zero regrets.

At first, I made the baked versions. They were good… but honestly? Too much work for something that disappears in ten minutes. Once I cracked the no-bake method, I never looked back.

Now it’s my go-to for summer parties, holidays, and those random Tuesdays when I want dessert without commitment.


Ingredients That Matter (And Why I Don’t Compromise on Them)

The Crust: Simple but Serious

I use crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits. Butter holds everything together, so don’t skimp.

To crush evenly, I rely on my Cuisinart 8-Cup Food Processor
👉https://amzn.to/4r2psVz
Yes, you can use a zip bag and rolling pin. I just like my sanity.

The Caramel Layer (Dulce de Leche)

You can make caramel from scratch. I’ve done it. I’ve burned it too. These days? I buy La Lechera Dulce de Leche and call it wisdom.
👉 https://amzn.to/3YIAtiL

IMO, consistency matters more than bragging rights.

The Bananas

Use ripe but firm bananas. If they’re too soft, the texture gets weird fast.

The Whipped Cream

Cold cream. Powdered sugar. Vanilla. That’s it. I whip it with my KitchenAid 9-Speed Hand Mixer because my wrist retired early.
👉 https://amzn.to/4jKuiEl


How I Assemble My No-Bake Banoffee Pie (Stress-Free Method)

Step 1: Build the Crust

I mix crushed crackers with melted butter until it feels like damp sand. I press it firmly into a pie dish.

Firm matters here. Loose crust equals sadness later.

I chill it for 15 minutes. No shortcuts.


Step 2: Spread the Caramel

I spoon dulce de leche over the chilled crust and smooth it gently.

Pro tip: Warm the jar slightly in hot water. It spreads like a dream instead of fighting you.


Step 3: Banana Layer

I slice bananas right before layering. I cover the caramel completely.

Ever had bananas turn brown in dessert? Yeah. Timing fixes that.


Step 4: Whipped Cream Crown

I whip the cream to soft peaks and pile it on generously.

This is not the moment for restraint. Be generous.


Step 5: Final Touches

I dust cocoa powder or shave chocolate on top. Sometimes both. Depends on my mood 🙂

Then I chill the whole pie for at least 2 hours.


Tips & Tricks I Learned the Hard Way

  • Chill before slicing or layers slide
  • Slice bananas last minute to avoid browning
  • Don’t over-whip cream or it turns grainy
  • Use a sharp knife, wiped clean between cuts

FYI, this dessert forgives a lot—but not impatience.


Variations I Actually Like (And One I Don’t)

Great Variations

  • Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache under the bananas
  • Use Biscoff cookies for the crust
  • Add espresso powder to the whipped cream

Not My Favorite

Peanut butter swirl. Sounds fun. Overpowers everything. I tried it once. That was enough.


Why This Dessert Wins for Entertaining

  • No oven
  • Make-ahead friendly
  • Travels well
  • Looks bakery-level
  • Universally loved

Ever notice how banana desserts feel nostalgic and indulgent at the same time? This one nails that balance.


Common Questions People Always Ask Me

Can I make it a day ahead?
Yes. It actually slices better the next day.

Does it freeze well?
Not really. The bananas suffer. I skip it.

Can I use Cool Whip?
You can. I won’t judge. I just prefer real cream.


No-Bake Banoffee Pie

Prep Time 25 minutes
Chill Time 8 hours
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: British
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

  • Crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • Filling
  • 1 ¼ cups dulce de leche
  • 3 large bananas sliced
  • Topping
  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional Toppings
  • Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings

Method
 

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined.
  2. Press mixture firmly into a pie dish. Chill for 15 minutes.
  3. Spread dulce de leche evenly over the crust.
  4. Layer banana slices over the caramel.
  5. Whip cream, sugar, and vanilla to soft peaks.
  6. Spread whipped cream over bananas.
  7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm bananas for best texture
  • Chill before slicing for clean layers
  • Warm caramel slightly for easier spreading
  • Store covered in the fridge up to 24 hours

Final Thoughts

This no-bake banoffee pie feels like cheating in the best way. It’s simple, indulgent, and reliable—everything I want in a dessert.

If you make it once, you’ll keep coming back. Ask me how I know.

Now let’s get you the printable version.

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