Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe

There’s something truly magical about Banana Pudding Brownies. They combine the rich, fudgy pleasure of classic brownies with the creamy, nostalgic flavors of banana pudding, resulting in a dessert that feels both comforting and delightfully unexpected. Every bite offers a luscious swirl of banana, vanilla, and chocolate notes mingling together perfectly. If you think banana pudding and brownies belong in separate worlds, wait until you taste this heavenly fusion—it’s like dessert happiness in a single square.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of textures and flavors in your Banana Pudding Brownies. Each one plays a key role, from lending moisture and banana goodness to adding a crumble-worthy vanilla wafer crunch.

• Whole milk: Adds creaminess to the pudding layer for that silky texture.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the brownie batter, providing structure and chew.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both pudding and brownie batter, ensuring every bite is just the right amount of sweet.
• Large egg yolk: Enriches the pudding with smoothness and acts as a binder in the brownies.
• Unsalted butter: Provides rich flavor and moistness in both layers; melted butter helps with a tender brownie crumb.
• Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla brightens the banana and chocolate flavors beautifully.
• Light or dark brown sugar: Brings a deeper, caramel-like sweetness to the batter.
• Overripe mashed banana: The star ingredient for that unmistakable banana pudding essence and moist texture.
• Baking powder: Gives the brownies a subtle lift without overpowering the dense fudgy feel.
• Fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Vanilla wafer cookies: Provide that classic pudding crunch and delightful textural contrast embedded in the brownies.

How to Make Banana Pudding Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

Start by making your pudding on the stovetop. Cook the milk with sugar, flour, and egg yolk over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a smooth, silky pudding. This forms the rich, creamy layer that defines the banana pudding flavor. Once thickened, stir in butter and vanilla for extra lusciousness and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with both brown and granulated sugar until combined and glossy. Add the egg yolk, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Then gently fold in flour, baking powder, and salt, just until everything is blended. This careful mixing ensures tender, moist brownies packed with banana goodness.

Step 3: Layer and Swirl

Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and spread half of the brownie batter evenly on the bottom. Press a layer of vanilla wafer cookies over this first batter layer to add that crunch you’re craving. Next, dollop the reserved banana pudding and the remaining batter in alternating spoonfuls over the cookies. Using a knife or toothpick, swirl the pudding and batter together to create beautiful marbling. Press more vanilla wafers on top to finish.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake your Banana Pudding Brownies at 350°F for around 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting. This cooling step is crucial for the pudding layers to set perfectly, making clean, delicious squares.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Brownies

Garnishes

To make your brownies even more irresistible, try sprinkling some crushed vanilla wafers or chopped toasted nuts on top after baking. A dollop of whipped cream or a few thin banana slices on each piece instantly elevate these treats. The garnishes add visual appeal and extra layers of texture to impress anyone you share them with.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. A cold cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte is also perfect to balance their sweetness, making them ideal for an afternoon treat or a sweet finish to dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Banana Pudding Brownies on a rustic wooden board with a few whole bananas and vanilla wafers scattered around for a charming display. Alternatively, cut them into bite-sized squares on a dessert platter alongside mini spoons for sharing at parties or family gatherings. They also work beautifully layered in trifles or parfaits with extra pudding and whipped cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Banana Pudding Brownies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain the pudding’s texture and keeps the brownies from getting too soft. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

If you prefer warm brownies, pop a piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the pudding layer creamy and the brownie moist. You can also warm them briefly in a low oven, wrapped in foil to prevent drying out, making them feel freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use regular bananas instead of overripe?

Overripe bananas are best because they’re sweeter and softer, which enhances both flavor and moisture. Regular bananas will work but might make the brownies less sweet and slightly less tender.

Do I need to use vanilla wafer cookies?

Vanilla wafers provide traditional texture and flavor that complement the banana pudding perfectly. You can substitute with graham crackers or crushed digestive biscuits, but it will alter the classic taste slightly.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute whole milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat, and use dairy-free butter alternatives. The pudding may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.

What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

For best results, spoon the flour lightly into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing and ensures your brownies are perfectly tender, not dense.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a larger pan or multiple pans. Keep an eye on the baking time, as a bigger pan may require extra minutes to bake through fully.

Final Thoughts

Making Banana Pudding Brownies is like giving a warm hug to your taste buds with every bite. They bring together the familiar comforts of two classic desserts into one show-stopping treat. If you love clever twists that feel like home, these brownies will surely become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So grab your ingredients, swirl up the batter, and get ready to fall in love all over again with Banana Pudding Brownies!

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