Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Banana Pudding Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with creamy banana pudding and a crunchy vanilla wafer topping. This layered dessert is both nostalgic and refreshing, perfect for impressing family and friends without complicated steps.

Ingredients

• 1 box brownie mix (or homemade for a 9×13 pan)
• Ingredients required for the brownie mix (eggs, oil, water)
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
• 1½ cups cold milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1½–2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
• 1–1½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
• Banana slices (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare brownie batter according to the package or your favorite recipe. Pour it into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake as directed. Allow the brownies to cool completely before proceeding.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes until thick. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
3. Step 3: Spread the banana pudding evenly over the cooled brownies using an offset spatula for clean edges.
4. Step 4: Gently spread whipped topping over the pudding layer. Then sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers evenly on top.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to set and improve texture. For best results, chill overnight before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fudgy brownies rather than cakey for better texture and to support the pudding layer.
• If making brownies from scratch, use butter instead of oil and avoid overbaking.
• Add a thin layer of sliced bananas between the pudding and whipped topping for extra banana flavor, adding them just before serving.
• For chocolate lovers, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the pudding layer or drizzle chocolate syrup over the whipped topping.
• Make your own whipped cream by whipping heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract to soft peaks.
• Use store-bought brownies for a quick, no-bake shortcut.

Storage

Store the banana pudding brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Avoid freezing as it affects the pudding’s texture. If using banana slices as garnish, add them just before serving to prevent browning. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Yes, boxed brownie mixes are a convenient option. Choose a fudge or chewy variety and bake in a 9×13 pan for thinner, stackable layers that hold the pudding well.

Why shouldn’t I add pudding to warm brownies?

Adding pudding to warm brownies will cause it to melt and become runny, making the dessert messy and preventing the distinct layers from setting properly. Always cool the brownies completely before layering.

Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe

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5 from 134 reviews

Banana Pudding Brownies are a delightful fusion dessert combining rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with creamy banana pudding, topped with fluffy whipped topping and crunchy vanilla wafers. This treat offers layered textures and nostalgic flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday parties.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Layer

• 1 box brownie mix (or homemade fudge brownie recipe for a 9×13-inch pan)
• Ingredients required for the mix (eggs, oil, water)

Banana Pudding Layer

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
• 1½ cups cold milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

• 1½–2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
• 1–1½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
• Banana slices (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Bake the Brownies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare brownie batter according to package or homemade recipe instructions. Pour into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake until just set in the center but still fudgy. Allow brownies to cool completely before adding any toppings, as warm brownies can cause the pudding to melt.
2. Prepare the Banana Pudding: In a mixing bowl, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with cold milk and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes until thickened. Refrigerate for 5 minutes to let the pudding fully set and become spreadable.
3. Assemble the Layers: Spread the thickened banana pudding evenly over the completely cooled brownie layer, using an offset spatula for smooth, clean edges.
4. Add the Topping: Gently spread whipped topping or homemade whipped cream over the pudding layer. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers evenly on top to add crunch.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least 2 hours (overnight is best) to allow the layers to set and enhance texture. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean slices, and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with fresh banana slices just before serving to prevent browning.

Notes

• Use fudgy brownies rather than cakey for the best texture and to support the pudding layer.
• Do not add pudding to warm brownies; wait until brownies are completely cooled to prevent melting and sogginess.
• For extra banana flavor, add a thin layer of mashed or sliced ripe banana between the pudding and whipped topping layers right before serving.
• If using homemade whipped cream, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract to soft peaks and use immediately.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2–3 days; do not freeze as this affects pudding texture.
• Use a sharp knife and wipe blade between cuts for neat slices.

Keywords: banana pudding brownies, fudgy brownies, layered dessert, chocolate banana dessert, whipped topping, vanilla wafers, easy dessert, crowd-pleaser