Banana Blondies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of bananas with a chewy, sweet texture, then these Banana Blondies are just what you need! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I want something quick yet satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for gatherings or even just a cozy night at home. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!

These Banana Blondies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or enjoy them as they are. Whether you’re baking for friends or treating yourself, these blondies will surely be the hit of the day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious treats ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves banana desserts, making this recipe a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These blondies store well, so you can bake them ahead of time for parties or snacks throughout the week.
• Customizable Options: Add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to make these blondies uniquely yours.
• Deliciously Chewy: The combination of ripe bananas and brown sugar creates a perfectly moist and chewy texture that is hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Banana Blondies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything before we start baking!

For the Batter

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed (or 3 for stronger banana flavor)
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Mix-Ins

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup chocolate chips

Variations

This Banana Blondies recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Some Spice: Incorporate nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
• Go Nutty: Swap in mixed nuts instead of walnuts for varied textures and tastes.
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Increase the chocolate chips to create a richer, more decadent dessert.
• Fruity Twist: Add in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a chewy surprise in every bite.

How to Make Banana Blondies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your blondies bake evenly and develop that beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. This creates a lovely base that gives your blondies their rich flavor. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, followed by the mashed bananas. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, optional cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your blondies tender.

Step 5: Add Optional Mix-Ins

If you’re using any mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now. These add delightful bursts of flavor and texture throughout each bite.

Step 6: Bake Your Blondies

Spread the batter evenly in a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, let your blondies cool in the pan for about 15–20 minutes before slicing them into squares. This cooling time allows them to set properly and makes slicing easier.

Enjoy your warm Banana Blondies with family or pack them up for later—they’re sure to be loved by everyone!

Pro Tips for Making Banana Blondies

Baking banana blondies can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Use overripe bananas: The riper your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your blondies will be! Look for bananas with brown spots or even those that are fully brown; they’ll mash easily and provide a rich banana taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined ensures your blondies are chewy instead of tough. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a denser texture.
• Check for doneness: Since every oven is different, start checking your blondies at 25 minutes. They’re ready when the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs—this keeps them soft and chewy!
• Cool before slicing: Patience is key! Allow your blondies to cool for at least 15–20 minutes in the pan before cutting. This helps them set properly, making it easier to achieve clean cuts.

How to Serve Banana Blondies

These banana blondies are not only delicious on their own but also versatile when it comes to presentation. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Drizzle of nut butter: A light drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds a creamy richness that complements the banana perfectly.
• Fresh fruit slices: Top with thinly sliced bananas or berries for a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream adds a creamy, cold contrast to warm blondies—a classic combination!
• Coconut whipped cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream provides a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with banana flavors.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi balances the sweetness of the blondies while adding a burst of freshness.
• Coffee or tea: Serve alongside a cup of brewed coffee or herbal tea to complement the sweet flavors with warm notes.

With these tips and serving ideas in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dessert experience with your banana blondies! Enjoy every bite as you share this delightful treat with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

These banana blondies are not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the blondies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for about a week.

Freezing

• Cut the blondies into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen blondies, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm treat, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about banana blondies, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions that might help you out.

Can I use other fruits instead of bananas in banana blondies?

While bananas are the star of this recipe, you could experiment with other mashed fruits like applesauce or even pumpkin puree. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor and texture!

How do I make banana blondies with three bananas?

To enhance the banana flavor, simply use three ripe bananas instead of two. Follow the recipe as directed; just remember that using more banana will make your blondies denser and moister.

What should I serve with my banana blondies?

Banana blondies pair beautifully with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream. You can also serve them with fresh fruit for added color and flavor!

How can I customize my banana blondies?

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits can elevate your banana blondies to a whole new level. Get creative!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen! These banana blondies are not just easy to make but also incredibly customizable, making them a special treat for any occasion. Enjoy baking this delightful dessert, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with family and friends—I’m sure they’ll love it as much as you will!