If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy bananas, and a delightful crunch, look no further than the Olive Garden Brownie Banana Funtastico. This indulgent treat is not only irresistible but also incredibly easy to whip up. It’s the perfect dessert to impress your friends and family, whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion. With layers of brownie, banana pudding, and a variety of toppings, each bite is a celebration of flavor and texture that will leave everyone craving more. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why It Works Every Time

The Olive Garden Brownie Banana Funtastico is an exceptional dessert for several reasons. First, the brownie layer provides a dense, chocolatey foundation that pairs beautifully with the creamy banana pudding. The addition of Dream Whip adds a light, fluffy texture that elevates the dish. Bananas bring natural sweetness and a pleasant creaminess, while the toppings—pineapple, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, nuts, and cherries—add both flavor and visual appeal. This combination not only satisfies a variety of taste preferences but also creates a stunning presentation that is sure to wow your guests.

What You’ll Gather

To make this delectable dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 package (16.3 ounces) brownie mix, plus ingredients on the package
1 envelope Dream Whip Whipped Topping Mix
1 1/2 cups milk, divided use
1 package (4 serving size) instant banana pudding mix
1/2 cup pineapple topping
8 bananas
1 cup whipped cream
1/2 cup chocolate topping
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1/2 cup maraschino cherries

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the kitchen, gather the following equipment:

Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
9×13 inch baking dish for the brownies
Whisk or electric mixer for beating the Dream Whip
Spatula for spreading layers
Serving dish for the final presentation

Make Olive Garden Brownie Banana Funtastico: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Brownies

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix package. Prepare the brownie mix as directed, adding the required ingredients. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Whip Up the Dream Whip

In a mixing bowl, combine the envelope of Dream Whip Whipped Topping Mix with 1 cup of milk. Using a whisk or electric mixer, beat the mixture until soft peaks form. This will create a light and fluffy whip that adds a delightful texture to your dessert.

Step 3: Make the Banana Pudding

In another bowl, mix the instant banana pudding with the remaining 1/2 cup of milk. Stir until the pudding thickens, which usually takes about 2 minutes. Once thickened, gently fold in the whipped Dream Whip until well combined.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Once the brownies have cooled, cut them into squares and layer them at the bottom of your serving dish. Slice the bananas and distribute them evenly over the brownies. Next, pour the banana pudding mixture over the bananas, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Now it’s time to get creative with the toppings! Drizzle the pineapple topping over the pudding layer. Then, spread the whipped cream on top of the pudding. Finally, sprinkle chopped nuts and drizzle chocolate topping over the whipped cream. To finish, add maraschino cherries on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

This dessert is versatile and can be adapted to suit different seasons and occasions:

Summer: Use fresh strawberries or blueberries in addition to or instead of bananas for a berry twist.
Fall: Incorporate pumpkin spice into the banana pudding for a seasonal flavor.
Winter: Add crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive touch during the holidays.
Birthday Celebrations: Customize the toppings with sprinkles and a birthday candle for a fun birthday treat.

Troubles You Can Avoid

When making the Olive Garden Brownie Banana Funtastico, here are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of:

Don’t overbake the brownies; check them a few minutes early to ensure they remain moist.
Make sure the banana pudding is well mixed to avoid lumps in your final dessert.
Allow the brownie base to cool completely before layering; this prevents the banana pudding from melting into the brownies.
Use ripe but firm bananas to maintain their structure in the dessert.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), here are some tips for storing your Olive Garden Brownie Banana Funtastico:

Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day!

If you want to keep the brownie layer fresh, consider storing it separately and assembling just before serving.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it as the base for this dessert. Just make sure they are baked and cooled before layering.

What can I substitute for Dream Whip?

You can use any store-bought whipped topping or make your own by whipping heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, you can find gluten-free brownie mixes available in stores. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How can I customize the flavor of the pudding?

For a different flavor profile, try using instant vanilla or chocolate pudding mixes instead of banana. You can also add flavor extracts like almond or coconut for an extra twist.

Try These Next

If you loved making the Olive Garden Brownie Banana Funtastico, you’ll definitely want to try these delightful desserts:

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the information you need to create the Olive Garden Brownie Banana Funtastico, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients and equipment, and enjoy the process of making this delicious treat. The combination of flavors and textures will make it a hit at any gathering, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!