Banana Pudding Brownies: Prepare to have your dessert world rocked! Imagine the fudgy, decadent goodness of a rich brownie swirled together with the creamy, comforting flavors of classic banana pudding. It sounds too good to be true, right? But trust me, this recipe delivers an unforgettable treat that will have everyone begging for more.

Banana pudding itself is a Southern staple, a dish steeped in tradition and often associated with family gatherings and warm memories. While its exact origins are debated, it’s clear that this creamy concoction has been a beloved dessert for generations. Now, we’re taking that nostalgic flavor and infusing it into a brownie, creating a delightful fusion that’s both familiar and excitingly new.

What makes these Banana Pudding Brownies so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and tastes. The dense, chocolatey brownie base provides a satisfying chew, while the swirls of banana pudding add a smooth, cool creaminess that perfectly complements the richness of the chocolate. Plus, the hint of banana adds a subtle sweetness that elevates the entire experience. They are surprisingly easy to make, making them perfect for a weeknight treat or a potluck dessert. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your definition of the perfect brownie!

Ingredients:

For the Brownie Layer:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

For the Banana Pudding Layer:

3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 (5.1 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-4 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Topping:

2 cups heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla wafers, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Brownie Layer:

Melt the Butter: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. You can also melt it in a saucepan over low heat, but be sure to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Once the butter is melted, whisk in the granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies. Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the banana pudding layer. This is crucial, as a warm brownie layer will melt the pudding.

Preparing the Banana Pudding Layer:

Whisk Milk and Pudding Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until well combined. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes to allow the pudding to thicken slightly.
Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. This step is important to ensure there are no lumps in your pudding layer.
Combine Pudding and Cream Cheese Mixtures: Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the pudding mixture until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the pudding.
Add Banana Slices: Slice the bananas and gently fold them into the pudding mixture. Make sure the bananas are evenly distributed throughout the pudding.

Assembling the Banana Pudding Brownies:

Pour Pudding Over Brownies: Once the brownie layer has cooled completely, pour the banana pudding mixture evenly over the top. Spread it out to ensure it covers the entire brownie surface.
Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the pudding to set completely and the flavors to meld together.

Preparing the Whipped Cream Topping:

Chill Bowl and Whisk: Before making the whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and whisk (or beaters) in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better.
Whip the Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can turn the cream into butter.

Final Touches:

Spread Whipped Cream: Once the banana pudding layer has set, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top.
Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish with vanilla wafers. You can arrange them whole or crush them and sprinkle them over the top.
Serve: Cut the banana pudding brownies into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Brownie Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips in the brownie layer. White chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, or even peanut butter chips would be delicious. You could also add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the brownie batter.
Banana Pudding Variations: For a richer banana flavor, you can use banana cream pudding mix instead of vanilla. You can also add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the brownie layer before pouring on the pudding.
Whipped Cream Variations: Instead of making homemade whipped cream, you can use store-bought whipped topping. However, homemade whipped cream tastes much better and is worth the extra effort.
Make Ahead: These banana pudding brownies are best made ahead of time, as the flavors meld together and the pudding sets completely. You can make them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Storage: Store leftover banana pudding brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Gluten-Free Option: To make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum, as this will help to bind the ingredients together.
Dairy-Free Option: To make these brownies dairy-free, use dairy-free butter, dairy-free milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and dairy-free whipped topping. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are dairy-free.
Nut Allergy Considerations: Always be mindful of nut allergies. Ensure all ingredients used are processed in a nut-free facility if serving to someone with a nut allergy.
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the brownie layer or the sweetened condensed milk in the pudding layer. Taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
Layering Options: For a more visually appealing dessert, consider layering the brownies, pudding, and whipped cream in individual glasses or jars. This is a great option for parties or gatherings.

Troubleshooting:

Brownies Too Dry: If your brownies are too dry, try reducing the baking time by a few minutes. Overbaking is the most common cause of dry brownies.
Pudding Not Setting: If your pudding is not setting, make sure you are using instant pudding mix and not cook-and-serve pudding mix. Also, ensure that you are using the correct amount of milk.
Whipped Cream Not Stiffening: If your whipped cream is not stiffening, make sure your bowl and whisk are properly chilled. Also, avoid overwhipping the cream, as this can cause it to separate.
Brownies Sticking to the Pan: To prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan, make sure to grease and flour the pan thoroughly. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these banana pudding brownies chilled as a dessert.
Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Serve them with a cup of coffee or tea.
Bring them to a potluck or party.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Banana Pudding Brownies are truly a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of banana pudding combined with the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies. I know, it sounds almost too good to be true, but trust me, the combination is absolutely divine. The creamy banana pudding swirl adds a layer of moistness and sweetness that perfectly complements the intense chocolate flavor of the brownies. It’s a dessert that’s both familiar and exciting, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!). But why are these brownies so special? It’s more than just the sum of their parts. It’s the way the banana flavor infuses every bite, the satisfying chewiness of the brownie, and the delightful contrast in textures. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and slightly salty, rich and refreshing. It’s a dessert that’s both decadent and comforting, perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in. I honestly believe that once you try these, you’ll be adding them to your regular baking rotation. And the best part? They’re incredibly versatile! While I personally love them just as they are, warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, there are so many ways to customize them to your liking. For a truly decadent experience, try adding a drizzle of salted caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped pecans. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even incorporate some toasted coconut flakes into the brownie batter for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Here are a few more serving suggestions to get your creative juices flowing: * Warm with Whipped Cream: A classic pairing that never fails to impress. * With a scoop of Banana Ice Cream: Double down on the banana flavor! * Cut into squares and layered in a trifle: A show-stopping dessert for any occasion. * Drizzled with melted chocolate: For the ultimate chocolate lover. * Served with a side of fresh berries: A refreshing contrast to the richness of the brownies. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination! The possibilities are endless. I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I truly believe that these Banana Pudding Brownies will become a new favorite in your household. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible treats. I promise you won’t regret it! And when you do, please, please, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how much everyone loved them. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or even send me a picture of your beautiful creations. I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy baking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’m always here to help. Enjoy! Print