Banana Pudding Brownies combine the fudgy richness of classic chocolate brownies with the creamy, nostalgic flavor of banana pudding. A soft cocoa base is layered with fluffy banana cream and topped with fresh banana slices for a chilled, indulgent dessert. It’s the perfect mashup of two comfort-food favorites in one irresistible treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two Desserts in One – Chocolate brownies meet creamy banana pudding for a unique twist.
• Ultra-Fudgy Texture – Butter and cocoa create a rich, dense brownie base.
• Creamy, Fluffy Topping – Whipped cream lightens the pudding for a mousse-like layer.
• Great for Gatherings – Easy to slice into neat squares for serving.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill before serving for enhanced flavor and structure.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Chocolate and banana create a balanced, nostalgic pairing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownie Base

• 1 cup butter, melted – Adds richness and moist texture.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and contributes to crackly top.
• 4 large eggs – Provide structure and fudgy consistency.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Gives structure without making brownies cakey.
• 1 cup cocoa powder – Creates deep chocolate flavor.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Provides slight lift.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate.

For the Banana Pudding Layer

• 1 cup banana pudding mix – Provides banana flavor and thick texture.
• 2 cups milk – Activates pudding and creates creaminess.
• 1 cup whipped cream – Lightens the pudding layer.
• 1 banana, sliced – Adds fresh flavor and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.

Mix Wet and Dry Components
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until smooth and lump-free.

Bake the Brownies
Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Bake 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely.

Prepare the Banana Pudding
Whisk pudding mix with milk until thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Gently fold in whipped cream until smooth and airy.

Assemble the Layers
Spread banana pudding evenly over cooled brownies. Arrange sliced bananas on top.

Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes to allow layers to set before slicing.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Cool Completely First – Warm brownies will melt the pudding layer.
• Use Ripe Bananas – They offer better sweetness and aroma.
• Avoid Overbaking – Slightly underbaked brownies stay fudgy.
• Chill for Clean Slices – Refrigeration firms layers for neater cuts.
• Line the Pan – Use parchment for easy removal.
• Serve Cold – Best texture and flavor when chilled.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 16
Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving (estimated)

Perfect Pairings

• Freshly brewed coffee
• Vanilla bean ice cream
• Iced latte
• Drizzle of chocolate syrup

Ideal Occasions

• Potluck gatherings
• Birthday celebrations
• Family dessert nights
• Holiday dessert tables

Storage & Serving Tips

• Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days.
• Keep bananas fresh by adding just before serving if preparing early.
• Do not freeze, as pudding texture may separate.
• Slice with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Creative Variations to Try

• Chocolate Chip Boost – Add mini chocolate chips to pudding layer.
• Caramel Drizzle – Top with salted caramel for extra indulgence.
• Vanilla Wafer Crumble – Sprinkle crushed cookies over pudding layer.
• Peanut Butter Swirl – Swirl melted peanut butter into brownie batter.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Pudding too runny – Ensure correct milk measurement and whisk thoroughly.
• Brownies too cakey – Avoid overmixing batter.
• Banana browning – Toss slices lightly in lemon juice.
• Layers separating – Ensure brownies are fully cooled before layering.

Why This Recipe Works

The brownie base relies on a high fat-to-flour ratio, producing a dense, fudgy structure. Cocoa powder intensifies chocolate flavor while eggs create stability without excessive rise. The pudding layer thickens through starch activation when mixed with milk, and folding in whipped cream introduces air for a lighter texture. Chilling allows the layers to set firmly, ensuring clean slices and balanced flavor in each bite. At approximately 300 calories per serving, this dessert offers indulgence in manageable portions.

Final Thoughts

Banana Pudding Brownies are a delightful fusion dessert that brings together creamy nostalgia and chocolate indulgence. The layered textures and balanced sweetness make it a standout at any gathering. For a lighter variation, reduce sugar slightly or use light whipped topping while preserving that irresistible banana-chocolate harmony.