Muffin Tin Banana Cream Pies

Mini banana cream pies made in a muffin tin are the treat you turn to when you want something that feels special but is quick enough for weeknights or a last minute get together. They are creamy and nostalgic with a thick Oreo crust and a single sweet banana slice in every bite. You can make a whole batch in just a few minutes and the individual servings make them perfect for potlucks or birthday parties.

Every time I bring these mini pies to family parties someone asks for the recipe before even taking their first bite. I first whipped them up when my oven broke and everyone loved them so much that they are now requested more often than my classic baked pie.

Ingredients

• Banana cream pie pudding mix: This gives the creamy filling its classic flavor and silky texture Use a quality name brand for best flavor
• Milk: Use whole milk for the richest texture but low fat milk will still set up well Chill the milk before mixing for quicker thickening
• Golden Oreos: These cookies create a crisp buttery base and taste even better than regular pie crust Use fresh cookies so they do not get soggy
• Banana: Choose a sweet fully yellow banana for best flavor Slightly underripe bananas are too firm and not as sweet
• Whipped cream: Freshly whipped works best but canned is perfectly fine for convenience Make sure it is very cold
• Mini Nilla wafers: These tiny cookies add a cute crunchy finish Pick ones that are not broken so your pies look their best

Instructions

Prep the Tin:

Place one thick cupcake liner in each well of a muffin tin. This prevents leaks and helps the pies keep their shape when removed

Layer the Base:

Add one Golden Oreo to the bottom of each liner. Make sure the cookie sits flat

Add Banana Slices:

Slice the banana into quarter inch rounds. Lay one slice directly on top of each Oreo for a pop of banana flavor in every pie

Mix the Pudding:

Prepare the banana cream pie pudding according to the package directions. For thicker filling use just under two cups milk. Mix until smooth and thickened

Fill the Cups:

Scoop the pudding evenly into each lined cup right over the banana slice and Oreo. Fill to the very top to get that classic pie look

Chill to Set:

Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours. This step is key for the filling to set fully so your little pies are easy to serve

Add Toppings and Serve:

Right before serving pipe or spoon on a swirl of whipped cream and top each pie with a Mini Nilla wafer. Serve cold and enjoy

My favorite part is sneaking an extra banana slice into one pie as a secret bonus. I can still picture my kids arguing over who had the most banana in their pie at our last holiday dinner.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about three days. Wait to add the whipped cream and Nilla wafer until just before serving so they stay crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap Golden Oreos for vanilla sandwich cookies or even chocolate ones for a twist. Instant vanilla pudding works if banana cream is not available. Top with sliced strawberries for a berry twist

Serving Suggestions

Pile these on a pretty platter and offer extra whipped cream on the side. They make wonderful make ahead desserts for showers brunches or classroom parties. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce is a fun finish

Cultural roots

Banana cream pie is an American classic that became popular in the mid twentieth century as boxed pudding mixes made pie making easy for home cooks. Turning it into individual pies is a nod to bake sales and school functions where grab and go desserts are always a hit

Seasonal Adaptations

For spring use ripe strawberries with the banana or swap in fresh blueberries for a summer pie. Fall is a great time to add a dusting of cinnamon or crushed gingersnaps instead of Oreos. In winter try a little grated chocolate or nutmeg on top with the whipped cream

Three helpful notes for success

Use firm but not green bananas. Let the pudding set fully before adding toppings. Always keep the pies chilled for the best texture

Success Stories

Even the pickiest eaters fall for these cute pies after one bite. I love hearing from friends who tried this for end of year school parties and came home with an empty tray

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can freeze the assembled pies without the whipped cream topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge and eat within two days for best taste

These mini banana cream pies are an easy special treat any time. Enjoy them cold for simple party-perfect sweetness everyone will love.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use homemade pudding instead of box mix?

Yes, homemade banana pudding works well and can enhance the flavor. Prepare as you normally would and follow the same assembly steps.

→ How do I keep bananas from browning?

To minimize browning, slice bananas just before assembly. Optionally, brush with a little lemon juice for extra protection.

→ Can I substitute the Golden Oreos for another cookie?

Absolutely! Vanilla wafers or graham crackers can be used as the base to customize your dessert.

→ How long should these chill before serving?

Allow at least 2 hours in the fridge for best texture. They can be made ahead, but add toppings just before serving.

→ Can I make these dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and a dairy-free whipped topping to adapt for dietary needs, ensuring the pudding mix is compatible.