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If you love the classic flavors of a banana split but want something easier to serve at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, these Banana Split Brownie Bars are about to become your new favorite dessert. They combine rich, fudgy brownies with creamy banana pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and a colorful fruit layer that tastes just like the iconic ice cream treat—only in sliceable bar form.

Think about everything you love in a banana split: chocolate, bananas, strawberries, pineapple, whipped cream, and that finishing touch of chocolate sauce and cherries on top. Now imagine those flavors layered over a chewy brownie base. It’s nostalgic, fun, and surprisingly simple to put together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The banana split flavor combination is timeless and familiar, making it a hit with both kids and adults. It feels fun and colorful without being complicated.

These bars are also visually impressive. The fresh fruit topping, glossy fudge drizzle, and bright red maraschino cherries create a dessert that looks just as good as it tastes. They’re perfect for celebrations when you want something eye-catching but easy.

Finally, they’re sliceable and portable. Unlike a traditional banana split served in a bowl, these bars are easy to cut, serve, and transport. No melting ice cream to worry about—just layers of sweet goodness ready to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brownie Base

1 box Betty Crocker™ Fudge Brownie Mix
Water, vegetable oil, and eggs as called for on the brownie mix box (for cake-like brownies)
1/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

Filling

2 boxes (4-serving size each) Jell-O™ banana cream instant pudding and pie filling mix
2 1/2 cups cold milk
1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip frozen whipped topping, thawed

Topping

4 medium bananas, peeled and sliced (about 3 1/2 cups)
1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
1/2 cup pineapple tidbits in juice, drained and patted dry
2 tablespoons chocolate fudge sauce
18 maraschino cherries with stems, patted dry

Each layer plays an important role. The brownie base is rich and sturdy enough to hold the creamy filling. The banana pudding mixture adds that signature banana split flavor. The fruit topping keeps the dessert fresh and vibrant, while fudge sauce and cherries give it the classic finishing touch.

Let’s Get Started

– Preheat your oven according to the directions on the brownie mix box. Prepare the brownie batter using the water, oil, and eggs listed for cake-like brownies. Stir in the chopped walnuts for added texture.

– Spread the batter evenly into a greased baking pan (typically 9×13 inches). Bake according to package directions. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely. This step is important—adding the filling to warm brownies can cause it to melt and lose structure.

– While the brownies cool, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the banana cream pudding mixes and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until thickened. Let it sit for a few minutes to firm up further.

– Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and light.

– Spread the pudding filling evenly over the cooled brownie base. Use a spatula to smooth it out into an even layer.

– Next, arrange the sliced bananas evenly across the pudding layer. Scatter chopped strawberries and drained pineapple tidbits on top.

– Drizzle the chocolate fudge sauce over the fruit. Finally, top each section with a maraschino cherry for that classic banana split look.

– Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the layers to set properly and makes cutting easier.

Servings and Pairing

This recipe typically yields about 18 bars, depending on how you slice them.

They pair beautifully with:

Iced coffee
Cold milk
Fresh lemonade
Vanilla ice cream on the side

Because they’re chilled and fruity, they’re especially refreshing during warmer months. Serve them at barbecues, birthday parties, or summer celebrations for a colorful dessert option.

Variations

Want to customize your bars? Try these ideas:

Nut-free version: Omit the walnuts in the brownie base.
Extra chocolate: Add mini chocolate chips to the pudding layer.
Strawberry twist: Swap banana pudding for strawberry pudding for a flavor change.
Caramel drizzle: Replace fudge with caramel sauce.
Toasted coconut: Sprinkle toasted coconut over the top for added texture.

These simple swaps let you adjust the dessert to your taste.

Storage Tips

Store Banana Split Brownie Bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Because of the fresh fruit and pudding layer, they should always be kept chilled. For best texture and appearance, wait to add banana slices and cherries until closer to serving time if preparing in advance.

Freezing is not recommended, as the pudding and fruit may become watery once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Yes, any 9×13-inch brownie recipe will work as the base.

Will the bananas turn brown?

They may slightly brown over time. To reduce this, assemble shortly before serving.

Can I make it the day before?

Yes, but consider adding fresh fruit just before serving for best appearance.

Do I have to use walnuts?

No, they’re optional and can be omitted.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to drain and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

Final Thoughts

Banana Split Brownie Bars bring together everything you love about a classic banana split in an easy-to-serve dessert form. With a rich brownie base, creamy banana filling, fresh fruit topping, and chocolate drizzle, every bite feels festive and fun.

Banana Split Brownie Bars