If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for nostalgic flavors, this Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies paired with the creamy, dreamy taste of banana pudding and a hint of real banana goodness throughout. Each bite delivers a delightful blend of comfort and indulgence that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making dessert for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these brownies bring an irresistible twist that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are refreshingly simple yet carefully chosen to balance flavor, moisture, and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the velvety butter that enriches the batter to the banana pudding mix that introduces that unmistakable creamy banana punch.
- Butter, 1/2 cup melted: Provides richness and ensures a tender crumb in the brownies.
- Granulated sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens the batter while contributing to a soft, chewy texture.
- Large eggs, 2: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the brownies.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Adds depth and a warm aroma that complements the banana flavor.
- All-purpose flour, 1/2 cup: Forms the base of the batter, giving it substance without heaviness.
- Baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon: Helps the brownies rise gently for a moist, airy bite.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Banana pudding mix (instant), 1 cup: The star ingredient that infuses each bite with creamy banana pudding flavor.
- Mashed ripe bananas, 1/2 cup: Adds natural sweetness and moistness with authentic banana taste.
- Mini chocolate chips, 1/2 cup (optional): Introduces a melty burst of chocolate for extra indulgence.
How to Make Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to make sure your Banana Pudding Brownies come out perfectly smooth and easy to lift out after baking.
Step 2: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key for creating a rich base and gives your brownies that classic fudgy texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, crack in the eggs along with the vanilla extract. Whisk everything thoroughly until fully combined. The eggs help bind the ingredients and the vanilla adds a lovely fragrant note that elevates the whole dessert.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, and banana pudding mix. This ensures the leavening agent and pudding powder are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and rise.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here to keep your brownies tender and moist.
Step 6: Incorporate the Bananas
Fold in the mashed ripe bananas until they are fully incorporated. These fresh bananas provide natural sweetness and enhance the comforting banana flavor in every bite.
Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan
Transfer the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. This ensures even cooking and a neat, beautiful final appearance.
Step 8: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)
If you love a touch of chocolate with your banana, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips across the top of the batter. They melt beautifully in the oven and create gooey pockets of chocolate yum.
Step 9: Bake
Bake your Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe for 25 to 30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 10: Cool Before Cutting
Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This step allows them to set properly, making it easier to cut clean squares and preventing them from crumbling.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For a lovely presentation, top your brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for extra crunch and banana pudding vibes. Fresh banana slices or a dusting of cinnamon also make delightful finishing touches.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruity salad to balance the richness with freshness. A cup of coffee or cold milk is always a winning classic pairing that brings out the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering your Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe cubes in a glass trifle with banana slices, whipped cream, and extra pudding mix for a stunning make-ahead dessert. Alternatively, cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks for a fun party treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll stay moist and flavorful, perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet finish to your meals.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to two months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
To enjoy brownies straight from the fridge or freezer, warm them briefly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This revives their gooey texture and brings back that just-baked warmth and deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh banana instead of banana pudding mix?
The banana pudding mix is essential to get that signature creamy, pudding-like texture and flavor. While fresh bananas add moisture and natural sweetness, the mix gives the brownies their characteristic taste that simple mashed bananas alone can’t replicate.
Are Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe gluten-free?
This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends to make a gluten-free version, though texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Can I omit the chocolate chips?
Absolutely! The mini chocolate chips are optional and add a fun chocolatey kick, but the brownies are delicious on their own without them if you prefer to keep the banana flavor front and center.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
Use ripe to very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. They are sweeter and softer, which boosts the flavor and moisture content in the brownies perfectly.
Do I need to refrigerate the Banana Pudding Brownies?
These brownies can be kept at room temperature for a few days safely. If your kitchen is warm or you want to keep them longer, storing them in the refrigerator is fine but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines comfort food vibes with a unique banana pudding twist, you can’t go wrong with this Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe. It’s straightforward to make, wonderfully flavorful, and bound to become a new favorite to share. Give it a try and enjoy every luscious bite!
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Banana Pudding Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
These Banana Pudding Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the creamy, nostalgic flavor of banana pudding. Infused with mashed ripe bananas and instant banana pudding mix, these brownies offer a delightful twist that’s perfectly moist and sweet, making them an irresistible treat for banana lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup banana pudding mix (instant)
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the sugar starts to dissolve.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, whisking thoroughly until the batter is fully combined and slightly fluffy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and instant banana pudding mix until evenly distributed.
- Fold Dry into Wet Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and keeping the batter light.
- Add Mashed Bananas: Stir in the mashed ripe bananas thoroughly, making sure they are well incorporated into the batter for flavor and moisture.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Add Optional Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter if desired, adding a hint of chocolate to complement the banana flavor.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps them set and makes for cleaner cuts. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra moisture, ensure bananas are very ripe before mashing.
- You can substitute mini chocolate chips with chopped nuts for added texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- To make cleanup easier, lift the brownie slab out of the pan using the parchment paper.
- Do not overbake to maintain fudgy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
