Ingredients
3/4 cup sugar1/4 cup cornstarch1/4 teaspoon salt2-1/2 cups milk3 egg yolks, lightly beaten2 tablespoons butter1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract3 medium firm bananas1 pastry shell (9 inches), bakedMERINGUE:3 egg whites1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar6 tablespoons sugar
Preparation
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch and salt. Stir in milk until smooth. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until thickened and bubbly. Reduce heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat.
Stir a small amount of hot filling into egg yolks; return all to the pan. Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Gently stir in butter and vanilla until butter is melted; set aside. Slice bananas into the pastry shell. Pour hot filling over bananas.
In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, on high until stiff glossy peaks form and sugar is dissolved. Spread meringue evenly over filling, sealing edges to crust.
Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
