There’s something magical about combining two classic desserts into one unforgettable treat. These banana pudding brownies bring together the deep chocolate richness of fudgy brownies and the smooth, nostalgic flavor of banana pudding in a layered dessert that feels indulgent but is still easy enough to make at home. Every bite delivers soft texture, creamy topping, and just the right hint of banana sweetness.
This recipe is perfect when you want a dessert that looks impressive yet doesn’t require complicated baking skills. Whether you’re making it for guests, weekend baking, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this one always gets attention.
Quick Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: About 1 hour 50 minutes
- Servings: 9–12 squares
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
For the Banana Pudding Layer
- 1½ cups cold milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
Optional Topping
- Extra whipped topping
- Crushed vanilla wafers or cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the brownie batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until glossy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
2. Add dry ingredients
Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep brownies soft and fudgy.
3. Bake
Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 28–32 minutes. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let brownies cool completely before adding topping.
4. Make pudding layer
Whisk milk and pudding mix for about 2 minutes until thick. Fold in whipped topping to make it lighter and creamier.
5. Assemble
Spread pudding mixture over cooled brownies. Arrange banana slices on top and add extra whipped topping if desired. Sprinkle crushed cookies for crunch.
6. Chill before serving
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour so layers set properly. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Results
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Cool brownies fully before topping, or pudding will melt.
- For extra chocolate flavor, add ½ cup chocolate chips to batter.
- Want cleaner slices? Chill brownies longer and cut with a warm knife.
Easy Variations
- Protein boost: Mix 1 scoop vanilla protein powder into pudding layer.
- Gluten-free option: Swap flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to brownie batter.
Approximate Nutrition (per square)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fat: 15g
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. They actually taste better after chilling overnight because flavors blend and texture firms up.
How should I store them?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze them?
Freeze brownie base only. Add pudding and bananas fresh after thawing for best texture.
What type of cocoa works best?
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder gives the best balance with the sweet pudding layer.
