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