Chunky Monkey Brownies are a decadent dessert that combines the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a luscious banana-flavored whipped topping and a crunchy garnish of chocolate chips and walnuts. Inspired by the iconic flavor profile of banana, chocolate, and nuts, this treat delivers layers of indulgence in every bite. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a unique brownie twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownies go beyond the ordinary with their multi-layered textures and flavors. The base is dense and chewy, studded with melty chocolate chips. The banana crème topping is light and creamy, providing a cool contrast to the rich brownie underneath. Finished with crunchy walnuts and more chocolate chips, each bite delivers the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch. This recipe is easy to assemble and makes for a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Brownies:
½ cup melted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp baking powder
½ cup chocolate chips
For the Topping:
16 oz heavy cream
1 (5 oz) box banana creme instant pudding mix
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ cup chopped walnuts
¼ cup chocolate chips
Directions
Make the Brownie Base:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
In a separate large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Allow to cool completely before adding the topping.
Prepare the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer until soft peaks form.
Add powdered sugar and banana creme instant pudding mix. Whip again until the mixture is thick, fluffy, and fully blended.
Assemble the Brownies:
Spread the banana-flavored topping evenly over the cooled brownies.
Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and additional chocolate chips.
Refrigerate until ready to serve to help the topping set and enhance the flavor.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling/Chilling Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 9 brownies
Variations
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Peanut Butter Chunky Monkey: Add ¼ cup of peanut butter chips or a swirl of peanut butter in the brownie batter.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of the all-purpose flour.
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Banana Bread Brownies: Mash ½ a ripe banana into the batter for added banana flavor and moisture.
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Chocolate Ganache Topping: Replace the whipped topping with a smooth ganache for a richer finish.
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Mini Brownie Cups: Bake in a muffin tin for individual brownie servings with piped banana topping.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep them chilled to maintain the texture of the topping.
Freezing:
Freeze the brownie base (without topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw and add the whipped topping fresh before serving.
Reheating:
These brownies are best served chilled or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended once the topping is added.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, you can use whipped topping and mix in the banana pudding powder for a quick shortcut.
Can I make the brownies a day ahead?
Absolutely. You can bake the brownies a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to top and serve.
Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Yes, vanilla or chocolate pudding can be substituted, but the banana flavor is key to the “Chunky Monkey” theme.
Do I need to toast the walnuts?
Toasting is optional, but it enhances their flavor and crunch.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, milk chocolate chips will create a sweeter brownie.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick near the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs but no raw batter, they’re ready.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the bake time to 35–40 minutes.
What if I don’t have banana pudding?
You can use mashed ripe banana in the topping with vanilla pudding mix for a similar flavor.
Are these brownies freezer-friendly?
The base can be frozen, but the topping should be added after thawing for best texture.
Can I serve these warm?
They are best served cold due to the whipped topping. Serving warm may cause the topping to melt.
Conclusion
Chunky Monkey Brownies offer a fun and flavorful twist on a traditional brownie, combining a fudgy chocolate base with a cool, banana-flavored whipped topping and crunchy garnishes. Rich, creamy, and full of texture, they’re perfect for entertaining or satisfying a banana-chocolate craving. With just the right balance of flavors and an eye-catching finish, this dessert is sure to become a household favorite.
Print
Chunky Monkey Brownies
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chunky Monkey Brownies are rich, fudgy chocolate bars topped with a luscious banana pudding whipped cream, chocolate chips, and crunchy walnuts. Inspired by the classic flavor combo, they’re the perfect decadent twist for banana and brownie lovers alike! Keywords: chunky monkey brownies, banana chocolate brownies, banana pudding brownies, fudgy brownies with whipped topping
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
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1/2 cup melted butter
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/3 cup cocoa powder
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp baking powder
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1/2 cup chocolate chips
For the Topping:
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16 oz heavy cream
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1 (5 oz) box banana creme instant pudding mix
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1/4 cup chopped walnuts
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1/4 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
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Make the Brownie Base:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
Gradually stir in the dry ingredients. Fold in chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Let brownies cool completely before topping. -
Prepare the Topping:
Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Add powdered sugar and banana creme pudding mix; whip until fluffy and thick. -
Assemble the Brownies:
Spread the banana-flavored whipped topping evenly over the cooled brownies.
Garnish with chopped walnuts and chocolate chips.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
For an extra banana kick, add thin banana slices between the brownie and topping layers.
Use instant pudding mix for best texture and setting.
Brownies can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Bars
- Method: Baking
