Description
Delight in the luscious combination of rich, fudgy brownies layered with creamy banana pudding and topped with fluffy whipped cream and crunchy vanilla wafers. This Banana Pudding Brownies recipe transforms classic desserts into a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix (or homemade batter for a 9×13-inch pan)
- Ingredients required for the mix (typically eggs, oil, and water as per package instructions)
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 (such as Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
- 1–1½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
- Banana slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bake the Brownies: Prepare the brownie batter according to the package or your homemade recipe, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Spread the batter evenly in a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake as directed until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before proceeding.
- Prepare the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract vigorously until the mixture thickens, approximately 2 minutes. Cover and refrigerate the pudding mixture for 5 minutes to set slightly.
- Assemble Layers: Once the brownies have cooled, evenly spread the prepared banana pudding over the entire brownie layer using a spatula for a smooth finish.
- Add Topping: Gently spread the whipped topping or homemade whipped cream evenly over the banana pudding layer, taking care to avoid mixing the layers. Then sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafers atop the whipped topping for a crunchy contrast.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for 1 to 2 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. Slice into squares and serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh banana slices for added freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the pudding layer to prevent melting or blending of layers.
- Use cold milk when mixing pudding for proper thickening.
- Homemade whipped cream can be used as a healthier or fresher alternative to store-bought whipped topping.
- Storing in the refrigerator keeps the dessert fresh for up to 3 days.
- Optional banana slices garnish adds a fresh, fruity touch but can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: banana pudding brownies, banana dessert, layered brownie recipe, easy banana pudding recipe, whipped topping dessert, vanilla wafer dessert
