Banoffee Pie Lasagna

 

Banoffee Pie Lasagna
Introduction

Banoffee Pie Lasagna is a decadent and layered dessert inspired by the classic British Banoffee Pie. This no-bake dessert features alternating layers of creamy mascarpone filling, sliced bananas, caramel sauce, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, this dessert is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet tooth. Let's dive into how to create this indulgent treat from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:

-2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12-14 full sheets)
-1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
-1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Mascarpone Filling:

-16 oz (450g) mascarpone cheese, softened
-1 cup heavy cream, chilled
-1/2 cup powdered sugar
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

-1 cup granulated sugar
-6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
-1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
-1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

For Assembly:

-4 ripe bananas, thinly sliced
-Whipped cream, for topping
-Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1-Prepare Pan: Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2-Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3-Press Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish using the back of a spoon or a spatula. Ensure the crust is tightly packed. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

1-Whip Mascarpone: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

2-Add Cream and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cheese until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

1-Caramelize Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a high heat resistant rubber spatula or wooden spoon.

2-Add Butter: Once sugar is melted and turns amber in color, add butter pieces one at a time, stirring vigorously until butter is fully melted and incorporated into the caramel.

3-Add Cream and Salt: Gradually pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir until the caramel is smooth and creamy. Add sea salt if desired for a hint of saltiness.

4-Cool: Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before using. It will thicken as it cools.

Step 4: Assemble the Banoffee Pie Lasagna

1-Layering: Remove the prepared graham cracker crust from the refrigerator. Spread half of the mascarpone filling over the crust in an even layer.

2-Add Bananas and Caramel: Arrange half of the sliced bananas evenly over the mascarpone layer. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the bananas.

3-Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining mascarpone filling, sliced bananas, and caramel sauce.

4-Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Step 5: Serve

1-Top with Whipped Cream: Before serving, spread a layer of whipped cream over the top of the chilled Banoffee Pie Lasagna.

2-Garnish: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for an elegant finish.

3-Slice and Enjoy: Use the parchment paper or aluminum foil overhang to lift the Banoffee Pie Lasagna out of the baking dish. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Tips for Success

-Ripe Bananas: Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and flavor in the dessert.
-Chill Time: Ensure the dessert chills for the recommended time to set properly and enhance the flavors.
-Make Ahead: This dessert can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
-Variations: Experiment with different toppings such as chopped nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added decadence.

Conclusion

Banoffee Pie Lasagna is a luxurious and delightful dessert that combines creamy mascarpone filling, fresh bananas, rich caramel sauce, and a buttery graham cracker crust. This no-bake treat is perfect for any occasion, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional lasagna that will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy creating and sharing this indulgent dessert with your loved ones, and savor each layer of flavor and texture in every bite!

This detailed recipe provides step-by-step instructions and tips for creating a delicious Banoffee Pie Lasagna, making it ideal for your blogger website.