How do I keep the bananas from turning brown when I’m making a banana pie?

"When making a banana pie, how can I keep the bananas from turning brown without altering the taste? How far in advance can I make the pie?"

There are a few things you can do to maintain the nice yellow color of the bananas.

*Start with firm, just-ripe bananas. If the bananas are too ripe, they are likely to brown much faster

* Treat the bananas with citrus juice: Lemon, orange or pineapple juice will prevent browning. To avoid changing the flavor of the pie, you want to use as little as possible. Brush it lightly on the slices, or place the juice in a spray bottle and spritz them.

*Be sure to cover the banana completely with the cream layer. Banana exposed to air will brown very quickly.

*Slice bananas just before using. The longer they sit, the more likely they are to brown.

The banana cream pie should keep well for two or even three days, but is really best made the day you serve it.

See our collection of Banana Pie Recipes.

Recipe: Peanut Butter-Banana Icebox Pie