Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe

If you’re a fan of both banana pudding and brownies, this recipe is your dream dessert come true. These Banana Pudding Brownies marry the creamy, nostalgic flavor of banana pudding with the rich, fudgy decadence of brownies. The result? A delightful, layered treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a weekend indulgence, this recipe offers a fresh twist on two all-time favorites. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to crafting this sensational dessert.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer

• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• ½ tsp salt

For the Banana Pudding Layer

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
• 1 ½ cups cold milk
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
• 2-3 medium bananas, sliced

For the Topping

• 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gradually fold it into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth it into an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Banana Pudding Layer

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened.
2. Fold in the sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping to create a light and creamy texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Once the brownie layer has cooled, spread a thin layer of the banana pudding mixture over the top.
2. Add a single layer of sliced bananas on top of the pudding layer.
3. Spread the remaining banana pudding mixture evenly over the bananas, creating a smooth surface.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafers evenly over the top.
2. For extra indulgence, scatter chocolate chips over the wafer crumbs.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours, or until the pudding layer is fully set.
2. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.
• Garnish with additional banana slices or whole vanilla wafers for a decorative touch.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Helpful Notes

1. Use Ripe Bananas: For maximum banana flavor, choose ripe bananas with brown spots on the peel.
2. Prevent Browning: Toss sliced bananas in a bit of lemon juice before layering to keep them from browning.
3. No Instant Pudding? Use homemade banana custard as a substitute for the pudding mix.
4. Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour in the brownie layer and ensure the wafers are gluten-free.
5. Double the Layers: For a taller dessert, double the banana pudding layer ingredients and use a deeper dish.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Duff Goldman: Use high-quality cocoa powder for the brownie layer to enhance its richness and balance the sweetness of the pudding.
• Martha Stewart: For an elegant presentation, use a trifle dish to layer the brownies, pudding, and toppings for a parfait-style dessert.
• Christina Tosi: Add a dash of banana extract to the brownie batter for an extra punch of banana flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought brownie mix?

Yes! For a quicker version, prepare a boxed brownie mix as directed and proceed with the recipe.

2. What can I use instead of banana pudding mix?

You can use vanilla pudding mix with a teaspoon of banana extract or homemade banana custard.

3. Can I skip the whipped topping?

Whipped topping adds lightness, but you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream or skip it for a denser layer.

4. How do I prevent the brownies from overbaking?

Check the brownies a few minutes early and remove them when a toothpick has moist crumbs but no wet batter.

5. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition for extra texture.

7. Is there a way to make this less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the brownie layer slightly, or use unsweetened whipped cream for the pudding layer.

8. What if I don’t have vanilla wafers?

Substitute with graham crackers, biscoff cookies, or crushed digestive biscuits.

9. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free pudding, and whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

10. How long does this dessert need to chill?

A minimum of 2 hours is recommended, but chilling overnight yields the best results.