Irresistible Banana Pudding Brownies with Vanilla Wafers

A fudgy, rich brownie base meets creamy banana pudding and crisp vanilla wafers—these banana pudding brownies are the ultimate dessert mashup!

Perfectly layered and incredibly easy to bake, they’re the kind of treat that disappears fast at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something nostalgic about banana pudding, and when you combine it with chewy, golden brownies?

Pure comfort. I especially love how the vanilla wafers on top add that little crunch and visual cue for slicing.

It’s a creative twist on two classic desserts in one bite!

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Brownie Layer

Unsalted butter & brown sugar: for a rich, chewy base

Eggs & vanilla: to bind and flavor

Flour, baking powder & salt: for structure

Banana Pudding Layer

Cream cheese: gives creaminess and slight tang

Banana pudding mix: instant flavor and ease

Eggs & milk: for smooth texture

Garnish

Vanilla wafer cookies: crunch and presentation

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese to ensure everything blends smoothly.

Don’t overbake—brownies should be just set in the center for a moist texture.

Chill before slicing if you want extra clean edges.

How to Make Banana Pudding Brownies

Step 1: Prep your pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

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

Step 2: Make the brownie batter

In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with brown sugar until combined.

Add eggs and vanilla extract; whisk again.

Add flour, baking powder, and salt.

Stir until the batter is thick and smooth (you may need a spatula).

Spread it evenly into the pan.

Step 3: Bake the brownie layer

Bake for 25 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while preparing the next layer.

Step 4: Make banana pudding layer

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until fluffy.

Add pudding mix, eggs, and milk. Mix on medium speed until smooth.

Step 5: Add pudding to brownie base

Spoon dollops of banana batter over the baked brownie layer.

Gently spread to the edges in an even layer—use a small offset spatula to avoid mixing layers.

Step 6: Add vanilla wafers

Press vanilla wafers gently into the pudding layer in 4 evenly spaced rows, so each brownie slice will have a cookie center.

Step 7: Bake again

Return to the oven and bake for another 15–18 minutes, until the pudding layer is set and the edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and slice

Let the brownies cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares and serving.

What to Serve It With

A scoop of vanilla ice cream

A drizzle of caramel sauce

A dollop of whipped cream

Variations / Substitutions

No pudding mix? Try using mashed ripe bananas with a little sugar and cornstarch instead.

Gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend and GF cookies.

Extra banana flavor? Add banana extract to the pudding layer.

Storage & Leftovers

Store the cooled brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

They also freeze beautifully—wrap slices individually and freeze up to 2 months.

Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They’re actually better the next day once fully set and chilled.

Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking times slightly.

Can I use fresh bananas instead of pudding mix?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust for sweetness and consistency.

A mashed banana with added cornstarch works well.

Why do I need to bake twice?
The double bake ensures the brownie base sets without overcooking the pudding layer.

Can I use a different cookie on top?
Sure! Shortbread or graham crackers would be a fun twist.

Do I need to chill them before slicing?
It helps with cleaner slices, especially for presentation.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use vegan butter, plant-based cream cheese, and almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

These banana pudding brownies are rich, nostalgic, and unexpectedly delightful.

They combine layers of texture and flavor in a way that makes each bite feel like a celebration.

Whether you’re baking for a party or just because—it’s the kind of recipe that always leaves people smiling.