There’s something truly magical about combining two classic comfort desserts into one decadent creation. For me, that magic happens with Banana Pudding Brownies. This recipe brings together a rich, fudgy brownie base with a silky smooth banana pudding layer, all topped with a crown of crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the best of both worlds in a single, irresistible bite.
You are absolutely going to love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between simple and spectacular. I first made these brownies for a potluck, and they were an instant hit. The combination of creamy, cool pudding and rich, warm brownie is just incredible. Not only are they easy to make using a convenient boxed mix, but they look like you spent hours on them. Trust me, once you try these Banana Pudding Brownies, they’ll become your new favorite dessert to share with friends and family.
Ingredients
This recipe is designed to be as simple as possible without sacrificing flavor, using a boxed brownie mix for convenience and a quick homemade pudding for that classic, creamy taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Fudgy Brownie Layer
- 1 (14.6-ounce) box chocolate brownie mix
- 2 eggs, divided (one for the brownies, one for the pudding)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 5 tablespoons water
For the Banana Pudding Layer
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box banana pudding mix
For the Topping
- 2-3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
How to Make the Best Banana Pudding Brownies
The magic of these Banana Pudding Brownies is in the layering. It’s a surprisingly simple process, but paying attention to each step ensures your dessert is perfectly set and absolutely delicious.
Step 1: Make the Brownie Batter
First, preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the brownie mix box. Next, get out a large bowl and combine the brownie mix with one of the eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until the batter is just combined, being careful not to overmix it. For a perfectly fudgy texture, it’s always best to have a few lumps. After that, pour the batter into a lightly greased 8×8 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 2: Bake and Cool the Brownie Base
Go ahead and bake the brownie base according to the directions on the box. Once they’re finished, let them cool completely on a wire rack. This is a crucial step; if the brownies are still warm, the pudding layer will melt and make everything a gooey mess. Patience is a virtue here, so let them chill out for at least an hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Homemade Banana Pudding
While the brownies are cooling, it’s time to make the pudding. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining egg until it’s smooth and fluffy. Then, gradually add the milk and the pudding mix, beating for about two minutes. The secret to a richer, thicker pudding is to beat it a little longer than you think you need to. After all, you’re incorporating air, which helps it set up beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill the Banana Pudding Brownies
Now for the fun part! Gently slice your bananas into thin rounds. Spread the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the completely cooled brownie base. Then, arrange the banana slices on top of the pudding. It’s important to chill the entire dish for at least four hours, or even overnight, to let the pudding set firmly. This also allows the flavors to meld together, which is exactly what you want for a spectacular dessert.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Just before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafers over the top. This adds a lovely crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pudding and the soft brownie.
My Best Banana Pudding Brownies Tips
I’ve made these Banana Pudding Brownies countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. These simple tips can make all the difference in achieving a perfect result.
The Secret to a Creamy Pudding Layer
This is probably the most important part. To make sure your pudding layer is firm and not runny, don’t rush the mixing process. The cream cheese must be at room temperature before you start. Moreover, after adding the pudding mix, you’ll want to beat the mixture for at least two full minutes. The extra time spent beating helps activate the thickening agents and creates a velvety, stable texture. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Why Overripe Bananas Are Key
Using bananas that are slightly overripe isn’t just a way to use up old fruit; it actually makes a huge difference in the flavor. As bananas ripen, their sugars become more concentrated, which intensifies their natural sweetness. They also become softer, making them easier to slice and blend seamlessly into the layers. In fact, a good, ripe banana adds an incredible depth of flavor that a green banana simply can’t provide.
Chilling is a Non-Negotiable Step
I know it’s hard to be patient when a delicious dessert is staring at you, but chilling these brownies is a critical step. For one thing, it allows the pudding to set completely so it doesn’t ooze out when you cut it. For another, it gives all the flavors a chance to fully develop. When you take the time to chill, the chocolate, banana, and creamy pudding notes all come together in a beautiful, harmonious way.
Variations of Banana Pudding Brownies
If you want to shake things up, there are plenty of ways to play with this recipe. For a quicker dessert, you can use store-bought fudge brownies for a no-bake option. To add more texture, consider folding chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie batter. You could also take the chocolate up a notch by folding semi-sweet chocolate chips into the mix, giving you extra pockets of gooey chocolate in every single bite.
FAQs
How do you keep bananas from turning brown in banana pudding brownies?
The best way to prevent your banana slices from turning brown is to add them right before you chill the dessert. Because the pudding mixture acts as a barrier, the bananas won’t be exposed to the air as much, which is what causes them to oxidize. Therefore, for the freshest look, don’t add the bananas until just before you refrigerate the pan.
Can I use a boxed brownie mix for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! The recipe is actually designed to use a boxed brownie mix. This saves you a lot of time and effort while still giving you a delicious, fudgy brownie base. However, if you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use that instead.
How long will banana pudding brownies last in the refrigerator?
These brownies will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best to store them in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. As a matter of fact, they often taste even better on the second day once the flavors have had a chance to fully meld together.
What’s the best way to slice banana pudding brownies cleanly?
For clean slices, be sure the brownies are completely chilled and set. Use a large, sharp knife, and run it under hot water between each cut. This simple trick will melt the surface just enough to get a clean slice without dragging the pudding or chocolate. Just remember to wipe the knife dry before each cut.
Banana Pudding Brownies
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These banana pudding brownies are the ultimate mash-up of two classic desserts: rich, fudgy brownies and creamy, smooth banana pudding. With a soft brownie base, a luscious banana pudding layer, and a crunchy vanilla wafer topping, this recipe delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. It’s a simple yet show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Fudgy Brownie Layer
1 (14.6-ounce) box chocolate brownie mix
1 egg
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
5 tablespoons water
For the Banana Pudding Layer
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 egg
⅓ cup milk
1 (3.4-ounce) box banana pudding mix
For the Topping
2–3 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
Make the Brownie Batter
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the brownie mix box. In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix with one egg, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until the batter is just combined, being careful not to overmix. Pour the batter into a lightly greased 8×8 inch baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake and Cool the Brownie Base
Bake the brownie base according to the directions on the box. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack. This is a crucial step to ensure the pudding layer doesn’t melt.
Prepare the Homemade Banana Pudding
While the brownies are cooling, prepare the pudding. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining egg until it’s smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the milk and the pudding mix, beating for about two minutes until the mixture is thick and velvety.
Assemble and Chill the Brownies
Slice the ripe bananas into thin rounds. Spread the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the completely cooled brownie base. Arrange the banana slices on top of the pudding layer. Chill the entire dish for at least four hours, or even overnight, to allow the pudding to set firmly and the flavors to meld.
Add the Topping
Just before serving, sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafers evenly over the top of the chilled dessert. This adds a perfect finishing touch of crunch.
Notes
Use Ripe Bananas
For the best flavor, use bananas that are slightly overripe. Their concentrated sweetness and soft texture are perfect for this recipe.
Chill for Flavor
Chilling is a non-negotiable step. It allows the pudding to set completely for clean slices and gives all the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
Clean Slices
To get clean, neat slices, make sure the brownies are thoroughly chilled. Use a large, sharp knife and run it under hot water between each cut, wiping it dry before slicing again.
Prevent Browning
To keep banana slices from turning brown, arrange them just before you chill the dessert. The pudding layer will act as a barrier, limiting their exposure to air.
Storage
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, No-Bake, Layering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (assuming 9 servings)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 45
- Sodium: 280
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 65
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 50
Keywords: banana pudding brownies, chocolate dessert, easy brownies, banana dessert, layered dessert, baking mix recipe, vanilla wafer topping, comfort food
