This Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of banana with a creamy, dairy-free filling. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is impressively delicious and visually appealing. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this dessert will wow your guests and leave them wanting more. With its gluten-free and vegan ingredients, everyone can enjoy this guilt-free indulgence!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this pie in no time!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy all the flavors of a classic banana cream pie without any dairy or gluten.
- Impressive Presentation: The layers and textures make it a show-stopping dessert for gatherings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is, or add toppings like coconut whipped cream or almond butter caramel sauce.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome nuts, fruits, and natural sweeteners, it’s a guilt-free dessert option.
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started on your Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie, gather your tools and prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- High-speed blender
- 9-inch pie plate
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer (for whipped cream)
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Essential for creating the crust by grinding nuts and oats into a fine meal.
- High-speed blender: Ensures that the filling reaches a creamy consistency without lumps.
- Electric mixer: Ideal for whipping coconut cream into fluffy peaks for topping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw walnuts
- 1 cup large flake rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup soft and juicy pitted Medjool dates (about 12)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/3 cup virgin coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/4 cups raw cashews, soaked and drained
- 1 large, ripe banana
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- 3 tablespoons almond or other non-dairy milk
- 1 can (400 mL) full fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup chilled coconut cream
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons almond butter or peanut butter
How to Make Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Plate
First things first, prepare your pie plate. Grease it with coconut oil. Take two pieces of parchment paper, each about four inches wide. Arrange them in an ‘X’ in the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate. The coconut oil will help them adhere to the pan. This step is crucial for lifting your pie out later!
Step 2: Make the Crust
To create the crust:
Place the walnuts and rolled oats in a food processor fitted with the ‘S’ blade.
Process into a coarse meal.
Add shredded coconut, dates, and sea salt.
Process until a dough forms that sticks together when pressed between fingers.
Crumble this dough into the prepared pie plate:
Working from the middle, press down and out over the bottom and up the sides.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
For the filling:
In a high-speed blender, combine melted coconut oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, soaked cashews, ripe banana, sea salt, vanilla extract, and almond milk.
Blend until super smooth and creamy:
Start at low speed then gradually increase to high. It should resemble pudding consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling over the crust:
Smooth it out with a spoon.
Cover with foil or reusable wrap:
Transfer to an even surface in the freezer. Freeze for about five to six hours or overnight.
Step 5: Serve Your Pie
Remove from freezer ten minutes before slicing:
Use parchment paper as handles to lift it out onto a cutting board.
Slice using a sharp knife:
Garnish with toppings like coconut whipped cream or caramel sauce before serving! Enjoy your delectable Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie!
How to Serve Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie
This raw vegan banana cream pie is a delightful dessert that can elevate any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your dish even more special.
A la Mode
- Add a scoop of coconut or almond ice cream on top to enhance the creamy texture and bring a refreshing chill to each bite.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Decorate with slices of fresh bananas or berries for a burst of color and additional natural sweetness.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate or cacao sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch that complements the banana flavor.
Nuts and Seeds
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds such as walnuts or chia seeds for added crunch and nutrition, making each slice even more satisfying.
Coconut Whipped Cream
- Serve with a dollop of homemade coconut whipped cream for an airy, rich topping that pairs beautifully with the pie.
Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle almond butter caramel sauce over the pie slices for a luxurious finish that enhances the flavor profile.
How to Perfect Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie
To ensure your raw vegan banana cream pie turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and creamy texture, making your filling extra flavorful.
- Soak cashews properly: Soaking cashews softens them for a smoother blend, resulting in a creamy filling without any grit.
- Chill before serving: Allow the pie to set in the freezer for several hours to achieve the best texture and ease in slicing.
- Opt for full-fat coconut milk: Using full-fat coconut milk results in a richer filling and cream since it has more fat content, making it taste decadent.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to incorporate different extracts like almond or hazelnut for unique variations on the classic flavor.
- Adjust sweetness as needed: Depending on your preference, you can add more maple syrup or sweetener to customize the level of sweetness.
Best Side Dishes for Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie
Pairing side dishes with your raw vegan banana cream pie can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie.
- Nutty Granola – Serve alongside a bowl of homemade granola for added crunch and healthy fats that complement the dessert.
- Green Salad – A simple green salad with citrus dressing provides a zesty palate cleanser between bites.
- Vegan Cheese Platter – Include some plant-based cheeses to add savory elements that balance out the sweetness of the pie.
- Chia Pudding – Offer small servings of chia pudding as an alternative dessert that’s also healthy and satisfying.
- Coconut Yogurt – Pair with plain or flavored coconut yogurt for a creamy side that enhances your banana cream experience.
- Dark Chocolate Bark – For those who love chocolate, serve pieces of dark chocolate bark on the side for extra indulgence.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs adds protein and makes for an excellent accompaniment that contrasts nicely with dessert flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect raw vegan banana cream pie can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Ignoring soaking cashews – Not soaking your cashews can lead to a gritty filling. Always soak them in hot water for at least 1 hour for a smooth texture.
- Using too many dates – Overloading on dates may make your crust overly sweet and sticky. Stick to the recipe’s recommended amount for balance.
- Not measuring ingredients – Approximate measurements can ruin your pie’s consistency. Always measure ingredients accurately for the best outcome.
- Skipping the coconut cream step – Neglecting to chill your coconut milk will prevent you from achieving that delightful whipped cream topping. Always refrigerate overnight.
- Forgetting to line the pan – If you skip lining the pie plate with parchment paper, removing the pie can become a challenge. Take the time to do this step properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on low power for 20-30 seconds, just until slightly warm.
- Stovetop – Warm gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying raw vegan banana cream pie.
What is a Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie?
A raw vegan banana cream pie is a dairy-free dessert made with wholesome ingredients like nuts, bananas, and coconut cream, offering a delicious alternative to traditional pies.
Can I substitute any ingredients in Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie?
Yes! You can swap walnuts for pecans or use maple syrup alternatives like agave nectar while maintaining similar textures and flavors.
How do I serve Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie?
Slice and serve chilled, topped with coconut whipped cream or almond butter caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Is Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie healthy?
This dessert is made from nutritious ingredients like nuts and fruits, making it a healthier option than many traditional pies when enjoyed in moderation.
Can I make Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can prepare it ahead of time for special occasions or meal prep.
Final Thoughts
The raw vegan banana cream pie is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can customize it by adding different toppings like fresh berries or nuts. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a guilt-free dessert that everyone will love!
Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie
Indulge in the delightful taste of Raw Vegan Banana Cream Pie, a scrumptious dessert that blends creamy banana flavors with a luscious, dairy-free filling. This no-bake treat is not only visually stunning but also guilt-free, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this pie satisfies cravings without compromising on health. Made with wholesome ingredients like cashews and walnuts, it’s gluten-free and vegan-friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of happiness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw walnuts
- 1 cup large flake rolled oats
- 12 pitted Medjool dates
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup soaked raw cashews
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
Instructions
- Prepare a 9-inch pie plate by greasing it with coconut oil and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine walnuts, oats, shredded coconut, dates, and sea salt; process until dough forms.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pie plate.
- Blend melted coconut oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, drained cashews, banana, vanilla extract, and almond milk in a high-speed blender until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth out. Cover and freeze for at least five hours.
- Before serving, let it thaw for ten minutes; garnish as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
