Banana Pudding Brownies
These Banana Pudding Brownies combine two irresistible desserts into one creamy, decadent treat. Fudgy chocolate brownies are topped with a fluffy banana pudding and cream cheese layer, then finished with fresh bananas, crunchy vanilla wafers, and an optional peanut butter drizzle.
The combination of rich chocolate, sweet banana, tangy cream cheese, and crunchy cookies makes every bite incredibly satisfying. They’re easy to prepare with a boxed brownie mix and simple pudding ingredients, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving an indulgent homemade dessert.
If you love classic banana pudding and fudgy brownies, this easy dessert gives you the best of both worlds!
Why Everyone Loves Banana Pudding Brownies
- Two favorite desserts in one: Rich chocolate brownies meet creamy banana pudding for an irresistible combination.
- Creamy and fudgy: The dense brownie base contrasts perfectly with the light, fluffy pudding topping.
- Easy to make: A boxed brownie mix makes the recipe quick and beginner-friendly.
- Perfect banana flavor: Instant banana pudding and fresh bananas create plenty of sweet, fruity flavor.
- Delicious texture contrast: Soft brownies, creamy pudding, crunchy vanilla wafers, and fresh banana slices make every bite interesting.
- Perfect for sharing: These chilled dessert bars are ideal for parties, potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings.
Ingredients Overview
- Brownie mix: Creates a rich, fudgy chocolate base without the need to make brownies completely from scratch.
- Large eggs: Help bind the brownie batter and provide structure.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps keep the brownies soft and fudgy.
- Water: Helps bring the brownie batter together.
- Instant banana pudding mix: Provides the signature banana flavor and creates the creamy pudding layer.
- Cold milk: Activates the pudding mix and gives it a smooth, thick consistency.
- Cream cheese: Adds richness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer while keeping it smooth.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the creamy topping.
- Whipped topping: Makes the banana pudding layer light, fluffy, and easy to spread.
- Bananas: Add fresh banana flavor and a naturally sweet finish.
- Vanilla wafer cookies: Provide a classic banana pudding flavor and delicious crunch.
- Melted peanut butter: Adds an optional nutty finishing touch that pairs beautifully with banana and chocolate.
Variations
- Chocolate Banana Pudding Brownies: Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for even more chocolate flavor.
- Peanut Butter Banana Brownies: Swirl peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking and finish with a peanut butter drizzle.
- Nilla Wafer Banana Brownies: Add extra crushed vanilla wafers over the pudding layer for more classic banana pudding flavor.
- Chocolate Wafer Version: Replace some of the vanilla wafers with chocolate sandwich cookies for a chocolate-banana combination.
- Caramel Banana Brownies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the finished brownies instead of peanut butter.
- Extra Creamy Banana Brownies: Add a little extra whipped topping to create an even lighter pudding layer.
How to Make Banana Pudding Brownies
1. Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. Parchment makes it easier to remove and slice the finished brownies.
2. Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water.
Stir until everything is fully combined and the batter is smooth. Avoid overmixing, as excessive mixing can make the brownies less fudgy.
3. Bake the Brownies
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for approximately 25–30 minutes, or according to the brownie mix package directions. The center should be set but still slightly soft.
Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the pudding layer.
4. Prepare the Banana Pudding
While the brownies cool, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with the cold milk.
Continue whisking until the pudding thickens. Set it aside for a few minutes.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Make sure there are no large lumps remaining.
6. Combine the Pudding and Cream Cheese
Add the prepared banana pudding to the cream cheese mixture.
Gently fold or beat until the two mixtures are completely combined and smooth.
7. Add the Whipped Topping
Gently fold the whipped topping into the banana pudding and cream cheese mixture.
Use a spatula and fold carefully to maintain the light and fluffy texture.
8. Add the Pudding Layer
Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the banana pudding mixture evenly over the brownie base.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Chill
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Chilling allows the creamy layer to set and makes the brownies much easier to slice.
10. Add the Toppings
Just before serving, slice the bananas and arrange them over the pudding layer.
Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafer cookies over the top.
For an extra indulgent finish, drizzle melted peanut butter or peanut butter glaze over the brownies.
11. Slice and Serve
Cut the chilled dessert into 12 bars using a sharp knife.
For cleaner slices, wipe the knife between cuts.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Pro Tips and Cooking Secrets
- Cool the brownies completely: Never spread the pudding layer over warm brownies, as the heat can cause the creamy topping to soften or melt.
- Use cold milk for the pudding: Cold milk helps the instant pudding thicken properly and creates a stable topping.
- Add bananas just before serving: Fresh banana slices can brown and release moisture, so add them shortly before serving for the best appearance.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerating the brownies for at least 2 hours helps the pudding layer set and makes the dessert much easier to cut.
Serving Suggestions
- Vanilla ice cream: Add a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Whipped cream: Top individual servings with a little extra whipped topping and crushed vanilla wafers.
- Chocolate drizzle: Add melted chocolate or chocolate syrup for an even richer chocolate-banana combination.
- Coffee: Serve chilled banana pudding brownies with a cup of hot coffee or espresso for a delicious afternoon treat.
How to Store Banana Pudding Brownies
Because these brownies contain a creamy pudding and cream cheese layer, they should be stored in the refrigerator.
Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For the best texture and appearance, add the fresh banana slices and cookie crumbs shortly before serving.
Can You Freeze Banana Pudding Brownies?
Freezing is not recommended for the fully assembled dessert. The pudding, cream cheese, whipped topping, and fresh bananas can change texture after thawing.
If you need to prepare the dessert ahead of time, freeze the baked brownie base separately. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw the brownie base completely, then prepare and add the fresh banana pudding topping before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can bake the brownie base up to 1 day ahead and store it covered at room temperature once completely cooled.
The banana pudding layer can also be prepared several hours ahead and refrigerated.
For the freshest presentation, assemble the pudding layer on the brownies and add the sliced bananas, crushed vanilla wafers, and peanut butter drizzle shortly before serving.
Banana Pudding Brownies FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed brownie mix?
Absolutely. You can use your favorite homemade brownie recipe as the base. Make sure the brownies cool completely before adding the banana pudding layer.
How long should Banana Pudding Brownies chill?
Chill them for at least 2 hours. This gives the creamy banana pudding layer enough time to firm up and makes slicing easier.
Can I make Banana Pudding Brownies the day before?
Yes. You can assemble the brownies and pudding layer the day before and refrigerate them overnight. For the best appearance, add fresh banana slices and crushed wafers closer to serving.
Why is my banana pudding layer runny?
Make sure you’re using instant banana pudding mix with cold milk and allowing it to thicken before combining it with the cream cheese mixture. Also, avoid adding too much milk.
How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown?
Slice the bananas shortly before serving. You can also lightly brush them with a small amount of lemon juice to slow browning, although this may add a slight tang.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes. Stabilized homemade whipped cream can be used, although whipped topping generally provides a more stable layer for refrigerated dessert bars.
Can I leave out the peanut butter drizzle?
Definitely. The peanut butter drizzle is completely optional. The brownies are delicious with just bananas and crushed vanilla wafers on top.
Banana Pudding Brownies
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- electric mixer
- spatula
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 package instant banana pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
- 2 medium bananas
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/4 cup melted peanut butter or peanut butter glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water until combined.
- Spread batter into the pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Allow brownies to cool completely.
- Whisk banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
- Gently fold in whipped topping until fluffy.
- Spread the banana pudding layer over the cooled brownies.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Top with sliced bananas, crushed vanilla wafers, and optional peanut butter drizzle.
- Slice into bars and serve chilled.
