Banana Pudding Brownies

These Banana Pudding Brownies are a delightful twist on two classic desserts—rich, chewy brownies layered with creamy banana pudding and a crunchy vanilla wafer topping. The result is a dessert that’s both indulgent and nostalgic, perfect for banana lovers or anyone looking for a unique treat to share. The moist brownies form a solid base, while the banana pudding and vanilla wafers add a light and flavorful contrast. This crowd-pleasing dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• 2 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
• 11 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 eggs
• 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix (or substitute with instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 tablespoons of banana extract)
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup whole or 2% milk
• About 15 vanilla wafers (or more if desired)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brownies:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
• In a large mixing bowl, stir together the packed brown sugar and melted butter until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
• Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it reaches all the corners.
• Bake the brownies for 25 minutes.

2. Make the Banana Topping:

• While the brownies are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and banana pudding mix (or vanilla pudding mix with banana extract) until smooth.
• Slowly add the eggs and milk, blending for 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and creamy.

3. Assemble and Bake:

• After the brownies have baked for 25 minutes, remove them from the oven.
• Evenly spread the banana pudding mixture over the top of the brownies, then arrange the vanilla wafers on top.
• Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes.

4. Cool and Serve:

• Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely before slicing and serving. The center may feel soft initially, but the brownies will firm up as they cool.

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Tips:

• Banana Flavor: If you can’t find banana pudding mix, using vanilla pudding with banana extract works wonderfully to infuse that familiar banana flavor.
• Extra Crunch: For added texture, crush a few extra vanilla wafers and sprinkle them over the pudding layer before baking.
• Make Ahead: These brownies are perfect for making ahead of time. After they’ve cooled completely, refrigerate them for a few hours to let the flavors fully develop.
• Storage: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

These Banana Pudding Brownies combine the best of both worlds—decadent, fudgy brownies with a fresh, creamy banana twist!