If you’re craving the ultimate fusion of two beloved classics, Banana Pudding Brownies are about to become your new favorite obsession. Imagine the rich, fudgy decadence of classic brownies meeting the creamy, dreamy nostalgia of banana pudding—all in one irresistible dessert bar. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of velvety chocolate, luscious banana-cream filling, and a satisfying vanilla wafer crunch. Whether you’re baking for a party or just want a sweet pick-me-up, Banana Pudding Brownies are guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Banana Pudding Brownies is in how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Each component plays a role, from the deep cocoa in the brownie base to the creamy banana layer and the irresistible vanilla wafer finish.
- Melted Unsalted Butter: Ensures your brownie layer stays moist and impossibly rich.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the brownies and balances the cocoa’s intensity.
- Large Eggs: Bind everything together and give the brownies structure and chew.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and brings out the best in both chocolate and banana flavors.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Provides deep chocolate flavor without overpowering the banana pudding.
- All-Purpose Flour: Creates the perfect brownie texture—neither too cakey nor too dense.
- Salt: Just a touch to round out the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
- Baking Powder: Gives a subtle lift to the brownie layer, keeping it light but still fudgy.
- Instant Banana Pudding Mix: The secret shortcut to that classic, creamy banana flavor.
- Cold Milk: Helps the pudding set perfectly and stay silky-smooth.
- Cream Cheese (softened): Adds richness and tang to the banana pudding layer.
- Whipped Topping or Whipped Cream: Keeps the pudding layer fluffy and airy.
- Crushed Vanilla Wafers: Add that iconic banana pudding crunch on top (and a little nostalgia, too).
- Optional Toppings: Extra crushed wafers, banana slices, or a drizzle of chocolate make every serving feel special.
How to Make Banana Pudding Brownies
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This ensures your Banana Pudding Brownies will lift out easily and slice into neat, beautiful squares.
Step 2: Whip Up the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Next, add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir gently—just until you don’t see streaks of flour. Overmixing can make brownies tough, so keep it tender!
Step 3: Bake the Brownie Base
Pour your luscious brownie batter into the prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly to the corners. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this step is crucial for easy layering later on.
Step 4: Mix the Banana Pudding Layer
While your brownies cool, let’s create the star of the show. In one bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until it thickens up. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Fold the banana pudding into the cream cheese, then gently fold in the whipped topping until it’s light, fluffy, and irresistible.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Once the brownie base is completely cool, spread the banana pudding mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafers generously over the pudding layer. Cover and refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours—this helps everything set and makes slicing a breeze.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving your Banana Pudding Brownies, add any extra touches: more crushed wafers, a few banana slices, or even a drizzle of chocolate. Slice into squares and enjoy the magic!
How to Serve Banana Pudding Brownies
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra crushed vanilla wafers is always a classic touch. For a pop of color and fresh flavor, add sliced bananas or a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of each brownie. If you’re feeling extra festive, a drizzle of chocolate or a light dusting of cocoa powder takes the presentation over the top.
Side Dishes
Banana Pudding Brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a tall glass of cold milk. If you want to keep things light, try serving them with fresh berries or a fruit salad to balance the richness. For a party, offer alongside coffee or a sweet dessert wine for a truly indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Banana Pudding Brownies into bite-sized cubes and arrange them on a dessert platter for a crowd-pleasing finger food. You can also layer brownie cubes, pudding, and whipped cream in mini parfait glasses for an elegant twist. Or, go for a sundae bar: set out brownies, toppings, and ice cream so guests can customize their own decadent desserts!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana Pudding Brownies keep best in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pudding layer stays cool and creamy, while the brownies retain their fudgy texture. For maximum freshness, enjoy within three days—though they rarely last that long!
Freezing
You can freeze Banana Pudding Brownies if you want to make them ahead for a special occasion. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving; just note that fresh bananas used as garnish may not freeze well, so add those after thawing.
Reheating
These brownies are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you like a slightly warm brownie base, you can microwave a square (without pudding) for 10–15 seconds before adding the chilled banana pudding layer and toppings. This way, you get the best of both worlds: gooey chocolate and cool, creamy pudding!
FAQs
Can I use homemade banana pudding instead of instant?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade banana pudding recipe, feel free to use it instead of the instant mix. Just make sure it has a thick consistency so it holds up as a layer on the brownies.
Do Banana Pudding Brownies need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the creamy pudding and whipped topping, it’s best to store these brownies in the refrigerator. This keeps the layers fresh and prevents the pudding from becoming too soft.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time for the brownie base, so watch closely and test with a toothpick for doneness.
Can I make Banana Pudding Brownies gluten-free?
You sure can! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend and ensure your pudding mix and vanilla wafers are certified gluten-free. The results will be just as delicious and crowd-pleasing.
How can I prevent the brownie layer from getting soggy?
Let the brownies cool completely before adding the pudding layer. Chilling in the fridge also helps set the layers and keeps the base from absorbing too much moisture, so you’ll get perfect slices every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing a pan of Banana Pudding Brownies with family or friends. Each slice is a little celebration of flavor and nostalgia, guaranteed to spark joy at any table. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly these brownies disappear!
