If you love banana pudding and brownies, this recipe combines the best of both worlds into one unforgettable dessert. These Banana Pudding Brownies feature a soft, chewy blondie-style base layered with creamy banana pudding flavor and topped with vanilla wafer goodness. The result is a rich, comforting treat that tastes like classic Southern banana pudding in handheld brownie form.
Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, holidays, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these brownies are easy to make and packed with nostalgic flavor. They offer all the deliciousness of homemade banana pudding from scratch while adding the dense, chewy texture that dessert lovers adore.
Whether you’re searching for unique banana dessert recipes or looking for a new twist on the best banana pudding, these brownies are guaranteed to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Banana Pudding Brownies are special for several reasons:
- Rich banana flavor in every bite
- Soft and chewy brownie texture
- Easy-to-find ingredients
- Perfect for parties and gatherings
- Inspired by classic Southern banana pudding
- Great make-ahead dessert
- Family-friendly recipe
- Delicious served chilled or at room temperature
- Combines two beloved desserts into one
If you’re a fan of banana desserts, this recipe delivers comfort and indulgence in every square.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Banana Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- ½ cup whipped topping
Topping
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
- ½ cup whipped topping
- Banana slices for garnish (optional)
How to Make Banana Pudding Brownies
These brownies start with a moist banana blondie base and finish with a creamy banana pudding layer. The combination creates a dessert that’s rich yet light, with plenty of banana flavor throughout.
The vanilla wafer topping adds crunch and brings the familiar taste of traditional banana pudding.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
Add eggs and vanilla extract.
Mix in mashed bananas until fully combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually fold dry ingredients into the banana mixture.
Stir until just combined.
Step 4: Bake
Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow brownies to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Banana Pudding
In a bowl, whisk banana pudding mix with cold milk.
Let sit for 5 minutes until thickened.
Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
Step 6: Assemble
Spread banana pudding evenly over cooled brownies.
Top with crushed vanilla wafers.
Add additional whipped topping if desired.
Step 7: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
This helps the layers set properly and enhances flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Banana Pudding Brownies pair wonderfully with:
- Fresh banana slices
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Caramel drizzle
- Hot coffee or tea
They make an excellent addition to dessert tables and holiday gatherings.
Helpful Tips
Use Ripe Bananas
The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.
Cool Completely
Don’t add the pudding layer until the brownies are fully cooled.
Chill Before Serving
Refrigeration helps create cleaner slices and better texture.
Use Fresh Vanilla Wafers
Fresh cookies provide the best crunch and flavor.
Store Properly
Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container.
Variations
Homemade Banana Pudding Version
Replace instant pudding with homemade banana pudding from scratch for an even richer flavor.
Banana Cheesecake Brownies
Swirl cream cheese into the brownie batter before baking.
Chocolate Banana Pudding Brownies
Add white chocolate or chocolate chips to the brownie base.
Extra Crunchy Version
Double the vanilla wafer topping for added texture.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. They can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
How long do they last?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze them?
The brownie layer freezes well, but the pudding topping is best added fresh.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Absolutely. Homemade pudding adds even more flavor and richness.
Why are they called brownies if there’s no chocolate?
They are technically blondie-style bars with a chewy brownie texture rather than traditional chocolate brownies.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Pudding Brownies are the ultimate dessert mashup, combining the creamy comfort of banana pudding with the chewy satisfaction of brownies. They’re easy to make, full of nostalgic flavor, and perfect for anyone who loves banana dessert creations.
Whether you’re exploring new banana dessert recipes, recreating the best banana pudding, or searching for unique banana desserts to share with friends and family, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious, these brownies are sure to disappear fast.
Banana Pudding Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
- Stir in mashed bananas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, whisk banana pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes. Let thicken for 5 minutes.
- Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
- Spread pudding mixture evenly over cooled brownies.
- Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the top.
- Add additional whipped topping and banana slices if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before adding the pudding layer.
- Chill before slicing for cleaner cuts and better texture.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade banana pudding instead of instant pudding mix.
- Add white chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra indulgent twist.
