It is potluck season. You want something special. You need a treat that everyone loves. These banana pudding brownies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They are soft, chewy, and full of nostalgic flavor. Your kitchen will smell like a warm bakery. Your family will keep asking for more.
This recipe is perfect for busy parents. It uses simple pantry staples. You do not need fancy tools. Just a bowl and a whisk will do. These brownies are tender and golden. They taste just like a classic summer dessert. You will love how easy they are to make.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
These brownies offer a unique twist. They combine the best of two worlds. You get the chewiness of a blondie. You also get the creamy taste of pudding. This recipe is budget-friendly and fast. It is ideal for a last-minute gathering. Your friends will be impressed by the flavor.
The secret is the dry pudding mix. It creates a wonderful, fudgy texture. The fresh bananas keep the center moist. White chocolate chips add a touch of sweetness. This dish is perfect for summer picnics or backyard BBQs. It is a reliable hit every single time.
Simple Method
Making these brownies is a breeze. You start by mixing the wet ingredients. Then you stir in the pudding mix. The batter becomes thick and fragrant. You simply fold in the flour. Even a beginner cook can master this. You do not have to worry about complicated steps.
Everything comes together in under an hour. You spend very little time prepping. The oven does all the hard work. You can focus on your family. This recipe is truly stress-free. You will feel like a pro in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are already in your pantry. Using ripe bananas is the key to success.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ripe banana, mashed (approx. 1 medium banana)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix, dry
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 15 vanilla wafer cookies
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch square baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, whisking until smooth.
- Whisk in the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed banana until fully incorporated.
- Add the dry instant vanilla pudding mix and stir until the color is uniform and the powder is dissolved.
- Gradually fold in the flour and salt using a spatula until just combined.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Arrange the vanilla wafer cookies in a grid pattern on top of the batter, pressing them down lightly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing to ensure the pudding-set texture is maintained.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these brownies at your next summer gathering. They look beautiful on a white platter. You can serve them warm or cold. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce is also delicious. They are kid-approved and fun to eat.
Pack them in a lunchbox for a surprise. They travel well for park playdates. Pair them with a cold glass of milk. Set the tray out and watch them disappear. Your guests will definitely ask for the recipe.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh on the counter for three days. You can also keep them in the fridge. This makes them extra chewy and cool. For long-term storage, use the freezer. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap first. Reheat in the microwave for ten seconds if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness.
- Do not skip the cooling time for clean slices.
- Avoid overmixing the flour to keep them tender.
- Line your pan with parchment for easy removal.
- Double the batch for a large summer potluck.
- Press the wafers gently so they stay on top.
- Check the brownies early to avoid overbaking.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate chips.
- Use banana pudding mix for more fruit flavor.
- Crush the wafers and mix them into the batter.
- Add chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Use gluten-free flour for a dietary-friendly version.
Common Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them the day before. They actually taste better as they sit. The flavors have more time to meld together.
What if my bananas are not ripe?
You can bake them in their skins for a few minutes. This softens them and brings out the sugar. It is a great time-saving shortcut for bakers.
Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Absolutely! Butterscotch or cheesecake pudding works very well. It is a fun way to experiment with flavors at home.
I hope these banana pudding brownies bring joy to your table. They are the perfect way to celebrate a sunny afternoon. Happy baking!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large eg g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ripe banana, mashed (approx. 1 medium banana)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix, dry
- 1 cup all -purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon sal t
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 15 vanilla wafer cookies
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch square baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, whisking until smooth.
- Whisk in the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed banana until fully incorporated.
- Add the dry instant vanilla pudding mix and stir until the color is uniform and the powder is dissolved.
- Gradually fold in the flour and salt using a spatula until just combined.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Arrange the vanilla wafer cookies in a grid pattern on top of the batter, pressing them down lightly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing to ensure the pudding-set texture is maintained.
