If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s sweet, creamy, and impossibly easy to put together, you need to try these Banoffee Pie Parfaits. This no-bake treat captures everything wonderful about the classic British banoffee pie—ripe bananas, rich caramel, clouds of whipped cream, and buttery graham cracker crumbs—all beautifully layered in single-serve glasses. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and every bite tastes like a little piece of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Banoffee Pie Parfaits are proof that with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create something utterly special. Each element brings its own magic—crunch, richness, freshness, or sweetness—so don’t skip a single one if you want the full, crave-worthy experience.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These give your parfait layers that classic pie crust crunch and a subtle, toasty sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Butter binds your crust together and adds undeniable richness.
- Brown sugar: Just a touch takes the graham mixture from good to irresistibly caramelized and cozy.
- Dulce de leche: This sweet, thick caramel is what makes Banoffee Pie Parfaits absolutely swoon-worthy.
- Ripe bananas (sliced): Go for ripe but firm bananas to get that perfect mellow sweetness without any mushiness.
- Heavy whipping cream: Freshly whipped cream brings billowy lightness and balances all the sweet notes.
- Powdered sugar: Just enough to gently sweeten the whipped cream without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla ties all the flavors together with its warm aroma.
- Dark chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish): Adds a sophisticated finishing touch and a little hint of bitterness to contrast the sweetness.
How to Make Banoffee Pie Parfaits
Step 1: Make the Graham Layer
Kick things off by blending the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Mix until the texture is like damp sand—this is going to be your parfait’s irresistibly crunchy foundation. Set this mixture aside while you work on the remaining layers.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, grab your mixer and whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you get soft, fluffy peaks. Nothing beats the flavor and texture of real whipped cream here, so don’t rush this step—you’ll taste the payoff in every spoonful.
Step 3: Prepare the Bananas
Peel and slice your bananas just before assembly to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Ripe bananas are best, but they should still hold their shape, so avoid ones that are too soft.
Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits
Now for the fun part: assembly! Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each parfait glass or jar. Top with a generous spoonful of dulce de leche, spreading it to cover the crumbs. Layer in sliced bananas, then add a pillowy scoop of whipped cream. Repeat those layers once more, finishing with a flourish of whipped cream.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle the tops with dark chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder to make them look as dreamy as they taste. Chill your Banoffee Pie Parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving—this helps all the flavors mingle and gives each layer its ideal texture.
How to Serve Banoffee Pie Parfaits
Garnishes
Garnishing your Banoffee Pie Parfaits is where you can have some real fun. A little extra whipped cream, a generous sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings, or even a dusting of cocoa powder gives each parfait a “wow” factor when you bring them to the table. You can also add a few thin banana slices or a drizzle of dulce de leche on top to echo the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
Since Banoffee Pie Parfaits are on the sweeter, creamier side, they pair beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a serving of lightly salted nuts. If you want to round out dessert hour, serve with a crisp, salty snack or a small fruit plate to strike that perfect balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes these parfaits extra special! Layer them in elegant wine glasses or small mason jars for a rustic look, or try mini shot glasses for a dazzling party treat. If you’re feeling playful, assemble the layers in a large trifle dish for a stunning centerpiece, then scoop out individual portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Banoffee Pie Parfaits left over (which is rare, trust me!), cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen as they mingle, but keep in mind that the bananas may soften a bit and the graham crumbs can pick up moisture. For the best texture, enjoy within the first day.
Freezing
While you can technically freeze assembled Banoffee Pie Parfaits, the texture of whipped cream and fresh bananas doesn’t hold up well after thawing. If you do want to prepare in advance, freeze only the graham cracker and dulce de leche layers. Add fresh bananas and whipped cream just before serving for best results.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat these parfaits—Banoffee Pie Parfaits are meant to be served chilled, straight from the fridge. If you want to revive any leftover whipped cream layer, give it a gentle stir or add a small fresh dollop before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Banoffee Pie Parfaits ahead of time?
Absolutely! These parfaits are perfect for making a few hours in advance. Just assemble, cover, and chill. For the freshest look and texture, garnish with whipped cream and chocolate at the last minute.
What if I can’t find dulce de leche?
If dulce de leche isn’t available, you can substitute with thick caramel sauce, or make your own by simmering a sealed can of sweetened condensed milk—but always do so with caution and follow safe preparation methods.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
You can use store-bought whipped topping if you’re short on time, but freshly whipped cream really brings a richness and flavor that elevates these Banoffee Pie Parfaits to something memorable.
Are there nut-free options for the crust?
Graham cracker crumbs are usually nut-free, but always check the packaging to be sure. You can also use digestive biscuits or another nut-free cookie of your choice as an alternative.
How do I prevent bananas from browning?
Slice your bananas right before assembling the parfaits and immediately cover them with dulce de leche or whipped cream layers to limit exposure to air. The slight acidity and low temperature from chilling will also help keep their color vibrant.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to make these Banoffee Pie Parfaits as I am to share them with you! They’re quick to make, gorgeous to serve, and guaranteed to earn rave reviews from everyone at the table. Give them a try and treat yourself to a little slice (or spoonful!) of banoffee heaven.
Print
Banoffee Pie Parfaits Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 parfaits
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Banoffee Pie Parfaits, featuring layers of buttery graham cracker crumbs, rich dulce de leche, fresh bananas, and fluffy whipped cream, all topped with chocolate shavings. A no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Parfait Layers:
- 1 (13.4-ounce) can dulce de leche
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Dark chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Stir until the texture resembles wet sand. Set aside.
- Whipped Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Assembly: Layer graham cracker mixture, dulce de leche, banana slices, and whipped cream in glasses or jars. Repeat layers and finish with whipped cream and chocolate garnish. Chill before serving.
Notes
- Consider using freshly whipped cream for better flavor.
- For added crunch, mix chopped toffee bits with the graham cracker layer.
- Prepare the parfaits up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate until serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 parfait
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
