Banana Pudding Brownies

Banana pudding brownies transform the beloved classic dessert into a handheld treat that combines the best elements of brownies, cheesecake, and traditional banana pudding. These decadent bars feature chewy, banana-infused layers sandwiching a creamy banana pudding-inspired filling, all topped with crunchy vanilla wafers that evoke the nostalgic flavors of the southern classic. The combination creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors – chewy, creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly banana-forward – that will satisfy both banana pudding enthusiasts and brownie lovers alike.

I was initially skeptical about combining banana pudding with brownies, but after making them for a family gathering, they disappeared faster than any dessert I've ever served. The combination of textures and flavors creates something truly special that appeals to everyone – even those who claim they don't like banana desserts kept coming back for more!

Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Ripe Bananas: Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the sweetest, most intense flavor; they should be soft but not mushy
• Cream Cheese: Full-fat provides the richest, creamiest filling; bring to room temperature for at least an hour for the smoothest results
• Banana Cream Instant Pudding Mix: This creates authentic banana pudding flavor; vanilla pudding mix works in a pinch but won't deliver the same banana intensity
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and subtle caramel notes that complement the banana perfectly
• Vanilla Wafers: Traditional for banana pudding and provides the perfect crunchy topping; choose fresh, crisp cookies for best results

Pin it

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by properly preparing your baking pan, which is crucial for easily removing these layered brownies after baking. Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray, making sure to reach the corners and slightly up the sides to prevent any sticking later on, as the chewy brownie layers and creamy filling can be particularly prone to adhering to the pan.

Step 2:

Create the foundation of flavor by vigorously whisking together 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and 1½ cups of melted unsalted butter in a large bowl until the mixture becomes completely smooth and integrated. This thorough combining ensures that the sugar properly dissolves into the butter, creating a uniform caramel-like base for your brownie layers.

Step 3:

Enhance the banana flavor by whisking ¼ cup of mashed ripe banana, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 2 eggs into your sugar-butter mixture until fully incorporated. The banana should be thoroughly mashed with minimal lumps to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the batter, creating consistent flavor in every bite of the finished brownies.

Step 4:

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons of baking soda, one package of banana cream instant pudding mix, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt until the dry ingredients are evenly combined. This separate mixing ensures the leavening agents and pudding powder are uniformly distributed before being incorporated into the wet ingredients.

Step 5:

Combine the wet and dry mixtures by gradually whisking the flour mixture into the banana-sugar mixture until just fully combined, being careful not to overmix. The resulting batter will be noticeably thick, almost like cookie dough, which is exactly what you want for creating sturdy brownie layers that can support the creamy filling.

Step 6:

Spread exactly half of this thick batter (approximately 2 heaping cups) into your prepared baking pan, using a silicone spatula to create an even layer that reaches all edges and corners. Take your time with this step to ensure an even base layer, as it forms the foundation of your layered dessert and contributes significantly to the final presentation.

Step 7:

Prepare the luscious cream cheese filling by beating 16 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese with a mixer until completely smooth and free of lumps, about 1-2 minutes. The temperature of the cream cheese is crucial here – if it's too cold, you'll end up with unwanted lumps in your filling regardless of how long you beat it.

Step 8:

Add the remaining 3 eggs to the cream cheese one at a time on low speed, allowing each to fully incorporate before adding the next, then mix in the second package of banana cream pudding mix and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat until the filling is completely smooth and uniform in texture, about 2 minutes.

Step 9:

Pour this creamy filling over the bottom brownie layer in the pan, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula to create a level surface. Work carefully to avoid disturbing the brownie layer beneath, ensuring clean, distinct layers in the finished bars.

Step 10:

Top the filling with the remaining brownie batter, carefully distributing it in dollops over the cream cheese layer, then gently spread it to cover most of the filling. For the crowning touch, mix the crumbled vanilla wafers with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top before baking at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until set.

These banana pudding brownies represent a brilliant reimagining of a classic dessert in a form that's both familiar and surprising. Unlike traditional banana pudding that requires bowls and spoons, these bars can be sliced and served by hand, making them perfect for gatherings where guests might be mingling rather than seated at a table. The layers create visual interest that makes them an impressive addition to any dessert spread.

The brownie layers themselves deserve special attention. Unlike typical chocolate brownies, these banana-infused blondies have a beautiful caramel undertone from the brown sugar that complements the banana flavor perfectly. The addition of banana cream pudding mix to the batter intensifies the banana taste while contributing to the chewy, satisfying texture that makes brownies so irresistible.

The middle layer achieves something truly special – it captures the essence of banana pudding in a firmer, cheesecake-like form that holds up when sliced. The combination of cream cheese and pudding mix creates a smooth, creamy texture with concentrated banana flavor that balances perfectly with the more subtle banana notes in the brownie layers.

Perhaps the most nostalgic element is the vanilla wafer topping. These classic cookies are integral to traditional banana pudding, and their inclusion here creates a wonderful textural contrast to the soft layers beneath. The brief baking transforms them into a golden, toasty crumble that adds both visual appeal and a delightful crunch to each bite.

For those who appreciate the science of baking, these brownies demonstrate the perfect balance of moisture and structure. The fresh banana and brown sugar add moisture to prevent dryness, while the proper ratio of flour provides enough structure to ensure clean slices without compromising the desired chewy texture.

My grandmother was the banana pudding expert in our family, and I was nervous about serving these to her at our summer gathering. To my delight, she requested the recipe before even finishing her first piece! She said they captured all the flavors she loves in banana pudding but in a more portable, less messy form perfect for her church potlucks.

Pin it

The first time I served these banana pudding brownies was at a neighborhood block party where I wanted to bring something unique. As I watched people's reactions taking their first bites, I couldn't help but smile at their surprised expressions – that moment of recognition when familiar flavors appear in an unexpected form. What began as an experiment has become one of my most requested desserts, especially during summer gatherings when traditional banana pudding might melt in the heat. These brownies maintain their integrity even on warm days, making them practical as well as delicious. While I've tried several variations with different mix-ins and toppings, I find myself returning to this classic version that perfectly captures the essence of banana pudding in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular pudding mix instead of banana cream pudding?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla pudding mix if banana cream isn't available. Add an extra 2 tablespoons of mashed banana to the batter to maintain the banana flavor. Butterscotch pudding mix would also work well with the banana flavors.

→ How do I know when these brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the edges are set and slightly pulled away from the sides of the pan, and the center appears set but is still slightly soft. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

→ Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These brownies actually improve with time as the flavors meld. Make them up to 2 days ahead and store in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ How should I store leftover banana pudding brownies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese layer. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months - just wrap individual portions well in plastic wrap and then foil.

→ Why do the eggs need to be at room temperature?

Room temperature eggs blend more easily into the batter and help create a smoother, more uniform texture, especially important for the cream cheese layer. If you forget to take them out ahead of time, place the eggs in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for 5-10 minutes.