Banana Pudding Brownies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert Recipe

If you adore both classic banana pudding and rich, fudgy brownies, get ready to fall in love all over again! This recipe for Banana Pudding Brownies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert Recipe is exactly what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth in the most unexpected and delightful way. Imagine moist, chocolatey brownies infused with the natural sweetness and creaminess of ripe bananas, layered with luscious vanilla pudding and fluffy whipped cream, then topped off with fresh banana slices. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings together the best of both worlds, sure to make any occasion extra special!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, combining simple pantry staples and fresh flavors to create a perfectly balanced dessert. From silky butter to ripe bananas, every component contributes to the rich taste, texture, and visual appeal of these Banana Pudding Brownies.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the creamy, rich base that keeps the brownies moist and tender.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies while helping achieve a soft yet slightly crisp crust.
• 4 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds structure for a sturdy but soft brownie texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Lends a warm, aromatic depth that enhances the banana and chocolate flavors.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The main building block that gives the brownies their body without being heavy.
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that decadent chocolate intensity that balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light, slightly risen texture rather than dense brownies.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Boosts and balances the sweetness while amplifying the chocolate notes.
• 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed: Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a hint of tropical flavor that makes these brownies unique.
• 1 cup mini marshmallows: Brings little pockets of gooey sweetness throughout the batter.
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds satisfying crunch and nutty contrast to the soft brownie.
• 1 cup vanilla pudding mix (instant): Creates that signature creamy banana pudding layer.
• 2 cups milk: Needed to prepare the pudding for a smooth, luscious topping.
• 1 cup whipped cream (for topping): Softens the pudding layer and adds an airy finish.
• 1 banana, sliced (for garnish): Provides fresh, pretty decoration and an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make Banana Pudding Brownies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper so your brownies will come out perfectly every time without sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, around 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial because it creates air pockets that give your brownies a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your cocoa and leavening agents are evenly distributed for a consistent texture and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—the goal is a tender brownie, not a dense one.

Step 6: Fold in Bananas, Marshmallows, and Nuts

Gently fold in the mashed ripe bananas, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts if you’re using them. The bananas infuse moisture and sweetness, marshmallows add pockets of gooey delight, and nuts deliver perfect crunchy texture.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. These brownies bake up moist but firm, so resist the urge to overbake.

Step 8: Cool Down

Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool on a wire rack for about 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling period sets their texture, making it easier to add the pudding layer later.

Step 9: Prepare the Pudding Filling

While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk in a medium bowl. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens up, usually 2 to 3 minutes, for that signature creamy pudding texture.

Step 10: Fold in Whipped Cream

Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the thickened pudding to lighten it up, creating a luscious, creamy layer. Save the remaining whipped cream for the topping, which will add fluffy richness to the finished dessert.

Step 11: Remove Brownies from Pan

Once the brownies are completely cool, carefully lift them out using the parchment paper or invert the pan if greased. Place them on your favorite serving platter or cutting board in preparation for the delicious layers ahead.

Step 12: Add the Pudding Layer

Spread the prepared banana pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cooled brownies, making sure every bite will have a creamy delight.

Step 13: Top with Whipped Cream

Now spread the remaining whipped cream evenly on top of the pudding layer, creating a light and fluffy finish that’s both visually stunning and delicious.

Step 14: Garnish with Fresh Banana Slices

Arrange thin banana slices beautifully over the whipped cream topping for a fresh burst of flavor and a gorgeous touch that invites everyone to dig in.

Step 15: Chill Before Serving

Cover the finished brownies with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding layer to set perfectly.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Brownies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert Recipe

Garnishes

The fresh banana slices on top do more than look pretty—they add a refreshing contrast to the rich layers beneath. You might also sprinkle a few chopped nuts or a dusting of cocoa powder for a little extra texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve the brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh berries or a cup of strong coffee also pair wonderfully, balancing the gooey sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, cut the brownies into small squares and place them in decorative paper cups. You can also layer portions in clear dessert cups to showcase the beautiful layers of brownie, pudding, and cream—hello, Instagram-worthy dessert trays!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Banana Pudding Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pudding layer stays fresh and creamy, while the brownies keep their wonderful texture.

Freezing

While these brownies are best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze uncut brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and add the pudding and whipped cream layers fresh before serving for best results.

Reheating

Since these brownies feature a pudding and cream layer, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, serve them chilled or at room temperature to maintain their delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great as long as they’re fully thawed and well mashed. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid making the batter too wet.

What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?

If mini marshmallows aren’t on hand, you can chop regular marshmallows into small pieces or omit them entirely—the brownies will still be deliciously moist and flavorful.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for structure, and you’ll have a gluten-free version of these amazing Banana Pudding Brownies.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better! Use bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and banana flavor that melds perfectly with the rich chocolate.

Can I make these brownies vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax or chia eggs instead of regular eggs, and find a dairy-free pudding mix along with coconut or almond milk. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about combining two beloved desserts into one unforgettable treat. I hope you feel inspired to try making these Banana Pudding Brownies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert Recipe soon. The layers of chocolate, banana, pudding, and cream come together in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these, they just might become your new go-to dessert favorite to share with friends and family!

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