Description
A decadent layered dessert featuring a fudgy brownie base, creamy banana pudding–cream cheese filling, fresh banana slices, and crushed vanilla wafers. This no-bake-topped treat combines two classic desserts into one crowd-pleasing dish—perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or make-ahead entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
1 box (about 18–20 oz) brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on box: typically 2 eggs, ½ cup oil, 3 tbsp water)
For the Banana Pudding Cream Layer:
1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
For the Toppings:
2 medium bananas, sliced
1 cup vanilla wafer cookies, crushed
Optional: ¼ cup melted peanut butter (or chocolate/caramel drizzle)
Instructions
1. Bake the brownie base: Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions using the eggs, oil, and water. Pour into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake as directed (usually 25–35 minutes at 350°F). Let cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the pudding layer: In a medium bowl, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Set aside to fully set (5 minutes).
3. Make the cream cheese layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and lump-free. Fold in the thickened pudding until fully combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping until light and airy.
4. Assemble: Spread the cream mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set.
5. Finish and serve: Just before serving, arrange banana slices on top, sprinkle with crushed vanilla wafers, and drizzle with melted peanut butter (if using). Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
Do not add bananas until serving time to prevent browning and sogginess.
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and ensure it’s fully softened.
Vegan option: Use plant-based brownie mix, dairy-free cream cheese, coconut milk, and vegan whipped topping.
Make ahead: Brownie and cream layers can be made 1 day in advance; add fresh toppings just before serving.
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not freeze with fresh bananas—freeze base + cream layer only (up to 2 months), then thaw and top fresh.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Layered Treat
- Method: Baking + No-Bake Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg