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Chocolate Banana Pudding Bars

Category: Sweet Treats for Every Occasion

Layers of chocolate and banana pudding rest atop a buttery graham cracker crust, finished with billowy whipped topping. Fresh sliced bananas add fruity notes, while the chocolate pudding brings rich depth to every chilled bite. No oven required—simply whisk, layer each component, and refrigerate until perfectly set. A dash of cocoa or chocolate shavings on top elevates the presentation. These luscious squares offer dreamy flavor and a delightful contrast in textures, making them perfect for gatherings or easy weeknight treats. Each portion captures a nostalgic blend of comfort and indulgence, ready to serve straight from the fridge.

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Updated on Wed, 04 Jun 2025 20:34:54 GMT
A slice of chocolate banana pudding bars. Pin
A slice of chocolate banana pudding bars. | lottirecipes.com

Chocolate Banana Pudding Bars are that dreamy dessert you crave when you want something decadent but do not feel like turning on the stove. This no-bake treat layers a buttery graham cracker crust with silky chocolate pudding creamy banana pudding and plenty of sweet ripe bananas. It comes together quickly and chills in the fridge for a cool sliceable delight.

I first made these bars for a family picnic and they disappeared before the burgers were even off the grill. Since then they are my go-to for easy potluck desserts and everyone always wants the recipe.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs: give the crust a sweet crunchy base look for ones that are fresh not stale
  • Unsalted butter: helps the crust hold together choose high-quality butter for better flavor
  • Instant chocolate pudding mix: brings that creamy chocolate layer use your favorite brand
  • Cold milk: is needed for both pudding layers cold helps puddings set faster
  • Ripe bananas: add natural sweetness and soft texture pick bananas with a few spots for best flavor
  • Instant banana pudding mix: intensifies the banana flavor alongside the fruit
  • Cool Whip: gives the top a light airy finish thaw completely for easy spreading
  • Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder: add a pretty and delicious garnish optional but fun

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Crust:
Blend graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a bowl until every crumb is coated This mixture should look like wet sand
Press Into Pan:
Spread the crumb mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish Press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to create an even layer
Mix Chocolate Pudding:
In a separate bowl whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and four cups cold milk Whisk for about two minutes until the pudding thickens Let it rest for a few minutes
Layer Chocolate Pudding:
Pour the chocolate pudding on top of the graham crust spreading out to the edges with a spatula
Add Bananas:
Slice ripe bananas evenly then lay them in a single layer over the chocolate pudding Try to fill every spot to get banana flavor in every bite
Mix Banana Pudding:
In another clean bowl whisk together the banana pudding mix with three cups of cold milk Whisk until thick and allow to sit for several minutes to finish setting
Add Banana Pudding Layer:
Gently spread the banana pudding over the layer of sliced bananas smoothing out the top as much as possible
Spread Cool Whip:
Top everything with an even layer of thawed Cool Whip Use a spatula to make sure every inch is covered for the finishing touch
Garnish and Chill:
Lightly sprinkle with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder if using Then cover and pop into the refrigerator for at least two hours to set fully
Slice and Serve:
Once well chilled cut into bars and serve cold for the best texture and taste
A slice of chocolate banana pudding bars. Pin
A slice of chocolate banana pudding bars. | lottirecipes.com

Banana pudding is my all-time favorite dessert so I am always excited to slip extra fresh banana slices in The memory of my kids fighting over the last bar still makes me smile every time I make it

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge so the layers stay firm and bananas do not brown For longer storage wait to top with Cool Whip until just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip if you like a less sweet topping Try using different instant pudding flavors if you want to experiment like vanilla or coconut

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars at backyard cookouts family gatherings or weekend brunches Cut them small for a crowd or serve big squares for a more indulgent dessert Make it extra special with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each bar

Cultural Context

Banana pudding is a cherished Southern classic that shows up at every summer reunion in my family Layering it into a bar form with chocolate is a fun twist that echoes potluck desserts from church basements and family tables across America

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How can I keep the bananas from browning?

Slice bananas just before assembling and quickly layer them between the puddings. The pudding helps shield the fruit from air exposure to minimize browning.

→ Can I substitute homemade pudding mix?

Absolutely! You can use your own chocolate or banana pudding made from scratch—just be sure it is fully cooled and thick before layering.

→ Is it possible to make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the bars up to a day ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. Garnish just before serving for freshest results.

→ Can I freeze the bars for later?

While possible, freezing may change the texture of the pudding and bananas. For best flavor and consistency, enjoy chilled from the refrigerator.

→ What toppings work well for extra flavor?

Try chocolate curls, cocoa powder, extra banana slices, or even chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

→ Are there dairy-free or gluten-free adaptations?

Use gluten-free graham crackers and dairy-free pudding or whipped topping to accommodate dietary needs while preserving flavor.

Chocolate Banana Pudding Bars

Buttery graham crust, chocolate layers, and creamy banana come together in an easy, no-bake dessert delight.

Preparation Time
20 mins
Cook Time
~
Total Time
20 mins

Category: Desserts

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: American

Yield: 12 Servings (12 bars)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Crust

01 240 grams graham cracker crumbs
02 115 grams unsalted butter, melted

→ Chocolate Layer

03 220 grams instant chocolate pudding mix
04 950 millilitres cold milk

→ Banana Layer

05 4 ripe bananas, sliced

→ Banana Pudding Layer

06 192 grams instant banana pudding mix
07 710 millilitres cold milk

→ Topping

08 225 grams whipped topping, thawed
09 Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish (optional)

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Step 02

Evenly press the prepared graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 23 x 33 centimetre baking pan, using the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed cup to create a compact crust.

Step 03

In a large bowl, whisk together instant chocolate pudding mix and 950 millilitres of cold milk until smooth and thickened. Let stand for a few minutes to set.

Step 04

Spread the chocolate pudding evenly over the graham cracker crust using a spatula.

Step 05

Arrange an even layer of sliced bananas over the chocolate pudding.

Step 06

In a separate large bowl, whisk the instant banana pudding mix with 710 millilitres of cold milk until thickened. Allow to stand briefly until set.

Step 07

Carefully pour and spread the banana pudding over the sliced bananas, smoothing the surface.

Step 08

Generously cover the banana pudding layer with whipped topping, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 09

Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or until completely set.

Step 10

Once chilled, slice into bars or squares and serve cold.

Additional Notes

  1. Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent excessive browning and maintain structure in each bar.
  2. Allow the bars to chill thoroughly for clean slices and defined layers.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • 23 x 33 centimetre baking pan
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
  • Contains milk and dairy products
  • Contains gluten
  • May contain traces of soy and nuts, depending on commercial ingredients

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 333
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Proteins: 5 g