Banana Pudding Brownies Delight

These Banana Pudding Brownies bring together the best of both worlds with rich, fudgy chocolate brownies swirled with creamy banana pudding cheesecake and a delightful crunch from 'nilla wafers. Every bite offers a luscious mix of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you want a special dessert for a family gathering or a sweet treat to brighten your day, these brownies hit the mark.

I first tried these brownies at a friend’s picnic and was immediately hooked. Now I make them for every family get together and keep getting asked for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Brownie mix: choose a highquality mix like Ghirardelli for moist and intensely chocolatey brownies
• Oil: keeps the brownies soft and gooey, making them rich in texture
• Egg: essential for binding and structure in the brownie batter
• Water: adds needed moisture and ensures the batter develops just right
• 'Nilla Wafers: classic banana pudding accompaniment adding vanilla flavor and a crisp texture contrast
• Banana pudding mix: provides that unmistakable banana flavor without needing fresh bananas
• Cream cheese: gives the pudding mixture its creamy cheesecakelike richness
• Milk: adds creaminess to the pudding and helps everything blend smoothly
• Egg: binds the banana pudding cheesecake filling so it holds together during baking

Instructions

Sift and Mix Brownie Batter:

Combine the brownie mix, oil, egg, and water in a large bowl. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated. If your mix includes a chocolate syrup packet, add this as well. This step is key to developing a rich and smooth chocolate base.

Prepare Banana Pudding Cheesecake Mixture:

In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, banana pudding mix, egg, and milk. Mix until the texture is smooth and thickened. This creamy filling will balance the intense chocolate with a tangy sweetness.

Layer the Batter and Filling:

Spray an 8 by 8 inch pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula so it spreads evenly.

Add the Banana Pudding and Wafers:

Dollop the banana pudding cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Then sprinkle a generous amount of broken ’nilla wafers on top to add crunch and signature flavor.

Top and Swirl:

Pour the remaining brownie batter over the pudding and then finish by adding dollops of more pudding mixture on top. Use a knife or long skewer to swirl the pudding into the brownie batter creating a marbled effect. The swirls create pockets of creamy flavor throughout.

Bake Carefully:

Bake in a preheated oven at the temperature recommended on your brownie mix box for about 50 to 55 minutes. Check the center it should be set but fudgy. Avoid overbaking which dries out the brownies and ruins the chewy texture.

Cool and Cut:

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Then lift them out using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Slice into 12 to 16 squares depending on your preferred size.

My favorite ingredient is the ‘nilla wafers because they bring nostalgia and a satisfying crunch that sets this dessert apart. One memorable time I made these for a family reunion and everyone was fighting over the last brownie with the wafer on top. It made me realize how such a simple addition can elevate a dish and create instant family favorites.

Storage Tips

Store your banana pudding brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them moist and fresh. They are best eaten within 5 to 7 days. For longer storage, slice into pieces and freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed into a freezer safe container. They keep up to 3 months in the freezer.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the banana pudding mix for other flavors like vanilla, pistachio, lemon, coconut cream, or cookies and cream to adapt this recipe to different taste preferences. Using a blondie mix instead of traditional brownie mix makes for an intriguing variation that is sweeter and lighter. For some added texture try mixing in chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Adding fresh banana slices in the filling or topping intensifies the banana flavor even more.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful served on their own but become extraordinary with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for dessert time. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat or at room temperature to enjoy the full fudgy texture.

Creamy, fudgy decadence that will disappear fast! Serve as is or top with ice cream or whipped cream for the perfect summer treat.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What makes these brownies fudgy and moist?

The combination of oil, eggs, and water in the brownie mix helps create a soft and gooey texture that keeps the brownies moist and fudgy.

→ How do the banana cheesecake swirls form?

The creamy banana cheesecake layer is made by blending cream cheese, banana pudding mix, milk, and eggs, then dolloped and swirled into the brownie batter before baking.

→ What role do vanilla wafers play in the dessert?

Vanilla wafers add a pleasant crunch and a subtle vanilla flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy and fudgy textures.

→ Can the pudding flavor be changed?

Yes, pudding flavors such as vanilla, pistachio, lemon, or cookies and cream can be used to give different taste variations.

→ How should these brownies be stored for best freshness?

Keep the brownies refrigerated for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months to maintain freshness and texture.

→ Are there options to customize texture or flavor?

Adding nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds, or mixing in chocolate chips or fresh banana slices can enhance flavor and texture.