As I was savoring a slice of my latest baking adventure, a thought struck me: why not blend two beloved desserts into one? That’s how I found myself creating these dreamy Banana Pudding Brownies. With this easy-to-make recipe, you get a delightful combination of moist, rich brownie texture and the creamy sweetness of banana pudding, all wrapped up in a family-friendly dessert that’s sure to impress. Perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy night in, these brownies bring a fun twist to traditional treats. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to whip up, making them an ideal choice for those of us tired of fast food alternatives. Are you ready to dive into this indulgent fusion? Let’s get baking!
Why Are Banana Pudding Brownies So Special?
Irresistible fusion: This recipe marries the best parts of brownies and banana pudding for a dessert like no other.
Creamy and rich: The banana pudding adds an incredible creaminess that elevates the traditional brownie experience.
Family favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is bound to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Quick and easy: Whip it up in just one bowl, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Customizable: Want a chocolate twist? Try adding chocolate chips or switch the vanilla wafers with graham crackers for extra crunch.
Delightful texture: Experience the perfect blend of fudgy brownie and crunchy topping in every delightful bite! These Banana Pudding Brownies are a fun change from your everyday treats, and if you love bananas, you might also enjoy making a batch of Cinnamon Swirl Banana or Moist Chocolate Chip Banana for your family.
Banana Pudding Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- Instant Banana Pudding (3.9 oz) – Adds sweetness and a creamy texture; you can substitute with vanilla pudding for a different flavor profile.
- Milk (2 cups) – Hydrates the pudding and cake mix; try almond milk for a delicious dairy-free option.
- Yellow Cake Mix (15.25 oz) – Serves as the base for the brownies; for a chocolate twist, use chocolate cake mix instead.
- Bananas (2 medium, thinly sliced) – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; overripe bananas are preferred for maximum flavor.
For the Crunchy Topping
- Vanilla Wafer Cookies (2 cups, roughly chopped) – Adds a delightful crunch and complements the flavor; graham crackers can be used as a tasty alternative.
Make these Banana Pudding Brownies a cherished treat in your home, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Pudding Brownies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Banana Pudding Brownies come out easily and maintain their moisture.
Step 2: Whisk the Pudding and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the instant banana pudding mix along with 2 cups of milk. Using a whisk, combine them thoroughly until the pudding is completely dissolved, which should take about 2 minutes. The mixture will become smooth and thick, signifying that you can proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cake Mix
Next, add the yellow cake mix to the pudding mixture. With a hand mixer or spatula, blend the two until they are well combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy due to the cake mix. This texture is what makes the Banana Pudding Brownies rich and fudgy.
Step 4: Fold in the Bananas
Gently fold in the thinly sliced bananas into the brownie batter. Be careful not to mash the bananas; you want to maintain some of their structure for extra texture in your brownies. The bananas will add natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the brownies.
Step 5: Pour the Batter
Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom with a spatula. This ensures that your Banana Pudding Brownies will bake evenly. Smooth the top as best as you can, as this will affect the final presentation of your delicious dessert.
Step 6: Add the Crunchy Topping
Chop the vanilla wafer cookies into rough pieces and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the brownie batter. This will create a delightful crunchy topping that complements the soft brownie underneath. Take a moment to ensure an even distribution so every bite has that lovely crunch.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on the brownies; they are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This indicates that your Banana Pudding Brownies are perfectly baked and ready for cooling.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan, which should take about 20-30 minutes. This cooling time will help you slice them neatly and enhance their fudgy texture. Cut into squares and serve your delightful Banana Pudding Brownies to savor every creamy, crunchy bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Pudding Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time during the week! You can prepare the brownie batter (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the pudding, milk, cake mix, and bananas and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. For the crunchy topping, chop the vanilla wafer cookies and store them separately at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into the prepared baking dish, sprinkle on the cookie topping, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll delight in warm, homemade brownies with minimal effort after a long day!
Storage Tips for Banana Pudding Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your Banana Pudding Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate your brownies in an airtight container where they’ll last for up to 1 week, maintaining their creamy texture.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy these brownies later, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To bring back that warm, fudgy texture, reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, adding a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!
Tips for the Best Banana Pudding Brownies
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Proper Pudding Mixing: Ensure that the instant pudding is fully dissolved in the milk to avoid any lumps in your brownies, which can affect the texture.
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Cool Completely: Allowing the brownies to cool entirely in the pan will help maintain their structure when slicing and enhance the overall texture.
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Storage Secrets: Store leftover Banana Pudding Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for an extended freshness.
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Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to swap vanilla wafer cookies for graham crackers or even crushed nuts for a unique topping that caters to your taste.
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Heat It Up: Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that your family will adore!
Banana Pudding Brownies: Creative Twists
Remember, creativity in the kitchen is half the fun! Feel free to explore these delectable variations to make your Banana Pudding Brownies even more personal.
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Chocolate Boost: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra dose of indulgence. The rich chocolate will beautifully contrast with the banana flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Swap the vanilla wafers for your favorite chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Think of how this added texture will enhance every bite!
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Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brownie batter for warming spices that meld beautifully with the bananas. You’ll love the fragrance wafting through your kitchen!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk instead of regular milk and a dairy-free pudding mix to make this dessert dairy-free without sacrificing taste. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy a slice!
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Layered Indulgence: Incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting on top once cooled for a delightful upgrade. It adds a creamy tang that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the brownies.
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Graham Cracker Crunch: For a buttery flavor, swap vanilla wafers with crushed graham crackers. This subtle twist can add a surprising crunch and different flavor profile, reminiscent of a summertime treat!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cooled brownies before serving for a decadent finish. Imagine that gooey sweetness cascading down—pure bliss!
Try these variations or visit my posts on Cinnamon Swirl Banana and Moist Chocolate Chip Banana for more banana-infused inspiration. Each will make your family dessert nights even more enjoyable!
What to Serve with Banana Pudding Brownies?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing your Banana Pudding Brownies with these delicious side options that enhance every bite!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice, the creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm brownies, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious layer to each slice, enhancing the dessert’s overall indulgence.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your brownies brings a delightful sweetness and richness that complements the banana flavor.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries contrasts brilliantly with the sweetness of the brownies, adding a refreshing note to your dessert.
- Chocolate Sauce: For those who crave extra decadence, chocolate sauce creates a luscious layer that enhances the fudgy texture of the brownies.
- Chilled Milk: A tall glass of chilled milk is a comforting companion, balancing the sweetness and offering a satisfying finish to every bite.
- Coffee or Espresso: Pairing your brownies with a cup of coffee or espresso brings out the chocolatey flavors and adds a warm, inviting touch to your dessert experience.
- Banana Slices: For an extra burst of flavor, fresh banana slices on the side echo the primary ingredient and add a fruity freshness to your plate.
Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for the Banana Pudding Brownies?
Opt for overripe bananas with brown spots, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. They add maximum moisture to the brownies, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
How long can I store Banana Pudding Brownies?
Leftover Banana Pudding Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be sure to keep them covered to maintain their creamy texture.
Can I freeze Banana Pudding Brownies?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature until soft.
What should I do if my brownies are too gooey after baking?
If your Banana Pudding Brownies are gooey, it may be due to underbaking. I recommend baking for the full 35 minutes and checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with wet batter, return the brownies to the oven for an additional 5 minutes and check again.
Are Banana Pudding Brownies pet-friendly?
No, these brownies are not suitable for pets. The bananas are okay in small amounts, but the pudding mix and cake mix may contain ingredients like sugar and xylitol (in some brands), which can be harmful to pets. Always keep desserts out of reach from furry friends!
Can I modify this recipe to make it gluten-free?
Definitely! To make Banana Pudding Brownies gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix in place of the standard yellow cake mix. Just ensure that your pudding mix is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy this delicious treat without worrying about gluten sensitivities!
Banana Pudding Brownies - Irresistibly Creamy & Crunchy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and milk until smooth and thick, about 2 minutes.
- Add the yellow cake mix to the pudding mixture and blend until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the sliced bananas, maintaining their structure for texture.
- Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped vanilla wafer cookies over the brownie batter evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow brownies to cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes before slicing into squares.
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