Banana Pudding Brownies

Indulge your taste buds with a delightful fusion of flavors in these Banana Pudding Brownies. Combining the classic appeal of brownies with the nostalgic charm of banana pudding, this recipe offers a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to savor layers of vanilla wafers, creamy filling, and rich brownie goodness in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 24 vanilla wafers
• Filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 box vanilla pudding
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons banana extract
• 2 eggs
• Brownies:
• 2 cups brown sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the brownie mix or to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare Baking Pan: Line a baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
3. Crush Vanilla Wafers: Crush the vanilla wafers into coarse crumbs. Sprinkle them evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
4. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, vanilla pudding mix, milk, banana extract, and eggs. Beat until smooth and well combined.
5. Layer Filling Over Vanilla Wafers: Pour the cream cheese filling over the crushed vanilla wafers in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
6. Prepare Brownie Mix: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar with the brownie mix according to the package instructions.
7. Layer Brownie Mix Over Filling: Carefully spread the brownie mix over the cream cheese filling, ensuring an even layer.
8. Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for the time specified on the brownie mix or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool and Cut: Allow the banana pudding brownies to cool in the pan. Once cooled, cut them into squares or bars.

Tips:

• Feel free to get creative with toppings like whipped cream, banana slices, or a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for added flair.
• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending.
• For a twist, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the brownie batter.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, these Banana Pudding Brownies offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re serving them at a party or indulging in a sweet treat at home, these brownies are sure to be a hit. With layers of creamy banana filling and rich brownie goodness, they’re a dessert sensation that’s hard to resist. Enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence with every bite!

1. Can I use homemade pudding instead of boxed pudding mix for the filling?

• Yes, you can substitute homemade pudding for the boxed mix in this recipe. Simply prepare your favorite vanilla pudding recipe according to its instructions and incorporate it into the cream cheese filling mixture. Ensure that the pudding is chilled and thickened before mixing it with the other filling ingredients for optimal texture and consistency.

1. What can I use as a substitute for banana extract if I don’t have any on hand?

• If you don’t have banana extract available, you can use mashed ripe bananas as a natural alternative to infuse the filling with banana flavor. Simply mash one or two ripe bananas until smooth and add them to the cream cheese mixture along with the other filling ingredients. Adjust the amount of mashed bananas according to your taste preferences and the desired intensity of banana flavor in the brownies.

1. Can I make these brownies ahead of time and store them for later?

• Yes, you can prepare these Banana Pudding Brownies ahead of time and store them for later consumption. Once baked and cooled, you can refrigerate the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the brownies for longer storage. To freeze, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Thaw frozen brownies in the refrigerator overnight before serving, or reheat them briefly in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.

1. How can I customize these brownies to suit different dietary preferences or restrictions?

• These Banana Pudding Brownies can be easily customized to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free vanilla wafers and brownie mix. To make the brownies egg-free, you can substitute each egg with a suitable egg replacer or mashed ripe banana. For a lower-fat version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and skim milk in the filling mixture. Additionally, you can experiment with alternative sweeteners such as stevia or coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a healthier twist. Feel free to adjust the recipe ingredients and proportions according to your specific dietary needs and preferences while still enjoying the delicious flavors of these indulgent brownies.