Introduction

If you’re a fan of classic Southern banana pudding and rich, chewy dessert bars, Banana Pudding Brownies are about to become your new favorite treat. These irresistible dessert bars combine the nostalgic flavor of homemade banana pudding with the soft, fudgy texture of brownies, creating a unique dessert that delivers comfort in every bite.

Unlike traditional chocolate brownies, Banana Pudding Brownies feature sweet ripe bananas, creamy vanilla pudding, and hints of vanilla wafer cookies. The result is a dessert that’s moist, rich, and packed with banana flavor while maintaining the dense, chewy texture everyone loves in a brownie. Each bite tastes like a cross between banana bread, banana pudding, and a buttery blondie.

Banana pudding has been a staple dessert throughout the Southern United States for generations. Combining layers of bananas, vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and vanilla wafers, it’s a dessert that evokes family gatherings, church potlucks, holidays, and Sunday dinners. This recipe transforms those beloved flavors into an easy-to-serve brownie bar that’s perfect for parties, bake sales, picnics, and everyday snacking.

One of the best things about Banana Pudding Brownies is their versatility. They can be served warm, chilled, frosted, or topped with whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers. Whether you’re using up ripe bananas or looking for a creative dessert idea, these brownies are guaranteed to impress.

The creamy banana flavor, buttery texture, and crunchy cookie topping make this dessert both comforting and exciting. It’s the perfect recipe when you want something a little different from traditional brownies but equally indulgent.

If you love banana pudding, banana bread, or blondies, these Banana Pudding Brownies combine the best elements of all three into one unforgettable dessert.

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Ingredients

🍌 For the Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1½ cups light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant banana cream pudding mix
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies

🍮 For the Pudding Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons prepared banana pudding
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish

• Crushed vanilla wafers
• Banana chips
• Fresh banana slices
• Whipped cream

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Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Lightly grease the paper.

Set aside.

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Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Melted butter
• Brown sugar

Mix until smooth.

Add:

• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Mashed bananas

Whisk until fully combined.

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Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Mix in:

• Banana pudding mix
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

Stir until a thick batter forms.

Fold in crushed vanilla wafer cookies.

Do not overmix.

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Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake for 28–35 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Allow brownies to cool completely.

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Step 5: Prepare the Pudding Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Prepared banana pudding
• Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and pourable.

Drizzle over cooled brownies.

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Step 6: Decorate and Serve

Sprinkle:

• Crushed vanilla wafers
• Banana chips

Allow glaze to set before slicing.

Cut into squares and serve.

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Variation

1. Banana Pudding Cheesecake Brownies

Swirl sweetened cream cheese into the batter before baking.

2. Chocolate Chip Banana Brownies

Fold white chocolate or milk chocolate chips into the batter.

3. Southern Banana Pudding Bars

Top with whipped cream and fresh banana slices.

4. Caramel Banana Brownies

Drizzle caramel sauce over the finished brownies.

5. Banana Nut Brownies

Add chopped pecans or walnuts.

6. Coconut Banana Pudding Brownies

Mix shredded coconut into the batter.

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COOKING Note

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor.
• Do not overbake to maintain a fudgy texture.
• Cool completely before glazing.
• Use instant pudding mix, not cook-and-serve.
• Fresh bananas should be added just before serving.
• Store refrigerated if topped with fresh fruit.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Banana Pudding Brownies:

• With vanilla ice cream
• At family gatherings
• During holiday celebrations
• At potluck dinners
• For bake sales
• With coffee or milk
• At birthday parties
• As an afternoon snack

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Tips

• Choose bananas with brown spots for the sweetest flavor.
• Chill brownies before cutting for cleaner slices.
• Add extra vanilla wafers for crunch.
• Use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Let brownies rest overnight for even better flavor.
• Add a cream cheese swirl for richness.
• Store in an airtight container.

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Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

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Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Calories: 380

Protein: 4g

Sodium: 180mg

Carbohydrates: 52g

Sugar: 34g

Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 10g

Fiber: 1g

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FAQs

Can I use vanilla pudding instead of banana pudding mix?

Yes, but the banana flavor will be milder.

Can I freeze Banana Pudding Brownies?

Yes. Freeze without fresh banana toppings for up to 3 months.

Why are my brownies dry?

They may have been overbaked. Remove them when a few moist crumbs remain.

Can I add nuts?

Absolutely. Pecans and walnuts work beautifully.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. They’re even more flavorful the next day.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Can I use homemade banana pudding?

Yes. Use a thick pudding for the glaze or topping.

Can I make these in an 8×8 pan?

Yes, but the brownies will be thicker and require additional baking time.

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Conclusion

Banana Pudding Brownies are the perfect combination of two beloved desserts: classic Southern banana pudding and rich, chewy brownie bars. Packed with ripe banana flavor, vanilla wafer crunch, and a sweet pudding glaze, these dessert squares offer comfort and indulgence in every bite.

Whether served at family gatherings, holidays, potlucks, or simply enjoyed with a cup of coffee, these brownies are guaranteed to become a new favorite. One bite of their soft, fudgy texture and creamy banana flavor, and you’ll be hooked. 🍌🍮🍫✨💛

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