I love simple desserts that feel like home, and Banana Pudding Brownies are exactly that. I layer creamy banana pudding over a chewy brownie and top it with whipped cream and vanilla wafers for a sweet, cool treat.
Dad James used to bring the best brownies to family picnics, and Mom Eva taught me how to layer desserts. Sister Sarah always adds the extra wafers.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix (or homemade for a 9×13 pan)
- Ingredients required for the mix (eggs, oil, water)
- Banana Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Topping
- 1½–2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
- 1–1½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
- Banana slices (optional, for garnish)
The Tools That Help
I keep this recipe simple, so you need just a 9×13 pan, a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a spatula. If you want a pudding made from scratch first, I sometimes point readers to my old fashioned homemade banana pudding for a richer banana layer.
The Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat oven and prepare brownie batter per package or recipe.
- Bake brownies in a greased 9×13-inch pan as directed.
- Cool the brownies completely.
- Whisk pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla until thick, about 2 minutes.
- Chill pudding in the fridge for 5 minutes to set slightly.
- Spread the chilled pudding evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Gently spread whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the top.
- Chill the whole pan for 1 to 2 hours to set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Lighter, Healthier Touches
I sometimes use low sugar pudding mix and light whipped topping to cut carbs and calories. You can also swap in Greek yogurt for a tangy cream layer and use baked brownie squares with apple or nut additions for more fiber.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these with cold milk or a simple coffee for balance. For a fun swap, try pairing the banana pudding idea with a fall twist like my apple brownies to match seasonal fruit and spices.
Common Stumbles to Avoid
Do not spread warm pudding or hot brownies; warm layers make the topping slip and melt. Also, crush the wafers just before serving if you want them crunchy. If you bake the brownies unevenly, the bars can be hard to slice, so cool them fully first.
Storing Your Creation
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid and keep it in the fridge. These last well for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze, slice first and wrap pieces individually, then thaw in the fridge before serving.
A Final Warm Word
I love how this dessert blends two favorites into one easy dish. Make it for a family night or potluck and watch it disappear.
Answering Your Questions
How long do Banana Pudding Brownies last in the fridge?
They keep well for up to 4 days when covered. The wafers soften over time, so they taste best within two days.
Can I make Banana Pudding Brownies ahead of time?
Yes. Make the brownies and pudding the day before, assemble, and chill. They actually slice cleaner after a good chill.
Can I use fresh bananas in Banana Pudding Brownies?
Yes. Fresh banana slices work great as a garnish or a thin middle layer, but add them just before serving to avoid browning.
Print
Banana Pudding Brownies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert that layers creamy banana pudding over chewy brownies, topped with whipped cream and vanilla wafers.
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (or homemade for a 9×13 pan)
- Ingredients required for the brownie mix (eggs, oil, water)
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½–2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
- 1–1½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
- Banana slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare brownie batter per package or recipe.
- Bake brownies in a greased 9×13-inch pan as directed.
- Cool the brownies completely.
- Whisk pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla until thick, about 2 minutes.
- Chill pudding in the fridge for 5 minutes to set slightly.
- Spread the chilled pudding evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Gently spread whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the top.
- Chill the whole pan for 1 to 2 hours to set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
For a lighter version, use low sugar pudding mix and light whipped topping. Fresh bananas can be added just before serving to avoid browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: banana pudding brownies, dessert, easy dessert, potluck, family recipe