As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of ripe bananas wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. This delightful moment inspired my latest creation: Fudgy Banana Bread Blondies. These sweet treats beautifully merge the comforting flavor of classic banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of blondies, making them an irresistible snack or breakfast option. Plus, the best part? This one-bowl recipe means less fuss and more time to enjoy every delicious bite. With just a hint of cinnamon and a drizzle of decadent brown butter frosting, you’ll find them delightful enough to whet anyone’s dessert cravings. So why not indulge in a batch today? What unique twist will you add to these Banana Bread Blondies?
Why These Banana Bread Blondies Rock
Ease of Preparation: This one-bowl recipe minimizes mess and cleanup, making it perfect for any skill level.
Rich, Fudgy Texture: The combination of mashed bananas and brown sugar results in moist, chewy blondies that melt in your mouth.
Versatile Flavor Additions: Whether you’re craving chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut, you can easily customize your blondies to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a sweet dessert, these blondies are sure to please everyone.
Deliciously Indulgent: Top them with creamy brown butter frosting for an extra layer of decadence that will have your taste buds singing.
Pair these with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy treat, much like my Gingerbread Latte Cake or enjoy them solo for a comforting snack!
Banana Bread Blondies Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components that make these Banana Bread Blondies so irresistible!
For the Blondies
- Ripe Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; use applesauce as a lower-calorie option.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a caramel-like flavor; it also helps retain moisture.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor profile with warmth and spice.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base for structure, providing chewiness; gluten-free all-purpose flour works as a substitution.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Egg – Serves as a binding agent, contributing to the blondies’ structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic flavor enhancement.
- Salt – Balances sweetness, elevating the overall taste.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and provides a smooth texture for the frosting.
- Milk – Helps achieve the desired consistency of the frosting; cream can be used for a richer glaze.
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’re just moments away from enjoying the bliss of Banana Bread Blondies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and prepare it by greasing the bottom and sides lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures that your Banana Bread Blondies will release easily after baking, providing that perfect fudgy texture you crave.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash 2-3 ripe bananas until smooth and creamy, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Next, stir in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, followed by 1 cup of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is well-combined, creating a sweet, fragrant base for your blondies.
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg
Now, crack in one large egg and whisk it into the banana mixture until fully incorporated. This step gives your Banana Bread Blondies structure, so ensure it’s smooth and uniform. Once combined, you’re ready to move on to the dry ingredients, which will add that delightful chewiness we all love in blondies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher blondies. As you stir, you’ll notice a thick, gooey batter forming—a sign that you’re on the right track!
Step 5: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. You’ll know your Banana Bread Blondies are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs sticking to it.
Step 6: Cool the Blondies
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the blondies set up nicely. Afterward, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely; this step is essential for achieving that perfect fudgy texture.
Step 7: Prepare the Brown Butter Frosting
While your blondies are cooling, it’s time to make the indulgent brown butter frosting! In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and let it cook until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Remove it from the heat and whisk in 2 cups of powdered sugar and enough milk to reach your desired consistency—smooth and creamy!
Step 8: Frost the Blondies
Once the blondies have cooled completely, drizzle or spread the brown butter frosting generously over the top. Use a spatula to ensure an even layer that highlights the decadent flavors of your Banana Bread Blondies. Finally, cut into squares, serve, and bask in the joy of your homemade creation!
Banana Bread Blondies Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment and make these Banana Bread Blondies uniquely yours—delicious surprises await!
-
Chocolate Chip Bliss: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips for a gooey, indulgent twist that every chocolate lover will adore. The combination of banana and chocolate is a classic crowd-pleaser!
-
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and flavor. The nuts provide a delightful contrast to the soft, fudgy texture of the blondies.
-
Coconut Surprise: Fold in shredded coconut to bring a tropical flair. It adds a lovely chewiness that enhances the overall experience of these delectable treats.
-
Oatmeal Base: Substitute half of the flour with oats for a heartier version. This not only adds texture but also makes the blondies a bit more wholesome!
-
Maple Sweetness: Swap out the brown sugar with maple syrup for a delightful, slightly different sweetness. Just reduce the liquid in the recipe a tad to keep the batter at the right consistency.
-
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for an extra zing of warm spice. This twist can complement the flavors beautifully, especially if enjoyed with a warm beverage.
-
Frosting Alternatives: If you want to lighten things up, try Greek yogurt as a topping instead of brown butter frosting for a creamy yet healthier option. It adds a nice tang to the sweetness!
-
Double Banana Delight: Replace half of the bananas with applesauce for a fruity freshness that still keeps the blondies moist. It’s a sneaky way to up the health factor while keeping the taste intact!
Whichever variation you choose, your taste buds are in for a treat! For an extra indulgence, consider pairing them with a scoop of ice cream, just like with my deliciously moist Gingerbread Latte Cake.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Blondies
-
Use Ripe Bananas: The bananas should be very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture. Overripe bananas work best to create that fudgy texture.
-
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined after adding flour; overmixing can lead to tougher blondies. Remember, gentle mixing is key!
-
Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Adjust baking time if you’re using a larger pan.
-
Customize Your Treats: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or shredded coconut to the batter for added flavor and texture. Get creative with your Banana Bread Blondies!
-
Frosting Options: If you’re looking for a healthier version, skip the frosting or use Greek yogurt as a topping. Enjoy them in whatever way makes you happiest!
What to Serve with Fudgy Banana Bread Blondies
Indulging in these sweet delights is made even better with the perfect pairings that elevate their flavors and textures.
- Coffee: A rich, robust cup of coffee cuts through the sweetness, making each bite of blondie even more enjoyable.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the warmth of the blondies with cold, velvety goodness.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy blueberries or raspberries bring a tart, vibrant burst that balances the fudgy richness of the blondies beautifully.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream creates a lovely creaminess that complements the moist texture of the blondies.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence and pairs wonderfully with the banana flavor.
- Chai Tea: Spicy, aromatic chai tea provides a warm hug in a cup, enhancing the cinnamon notes in the blondies.
- Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts offers a satisfying crunch, balancing the soft texture of the blondies.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Adding a peanut butter drizzle provides a nutty richness that intensifies the flavor experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Sweet, buttery caramel creates a decadent topping that perfectly enhances the banana and brown butter in the recipe.
- Milk: A classic pairing, a glass of cold milk complements the sweetness and helps wash down the delightful fudgy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Blondies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy days. You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—just combine all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the blondies can be baked and cooled up to 3 days ahead; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to maintain their delicious moisture. When you’re ready to serve, frost them with the brown butter frosting and enjoy! This way, you’ll have decadent, fudgy treats that are just as delightful as when they were freshly made, allowing you to savor homemade goodness even during the busiest of weeks!
Storage Tips for Banana Bread Blondies
Room Temperature: Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life, refrigerate the blondies in an airtight container for up to a week. This can help preserve the moisture while enhancing flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies individually wrapped or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste, perfect alongside your morning coffee!
Banana Bread Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for bananas that are very ripe with plenty of brown spots or even blackening on the peel. Overripe bananas are sweeter and provide the moisture necessary for these Banana Bread Blondies. If they’re not quite there yet, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag at room temperature.
What is the best way to store Banana Bread Blondies?
To keep your blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week in the same container. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Can I freeze Banana Bread Blondies?
Yes, you can! For optimal freezing, cut the blondies into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe container or a ziplock bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
What can I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
If you find your blondies are a bit dry, it may be due to overmixing or baking them too long. Always check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recommended baking time! Next time, try adding a bit more mashed banana or using very ripe bananas, and be gentle when mixing the dry ingredients.
Are these blondies suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Very much so! You can easily make these Banana Bread Blondies gluten-free by substituting regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure to double-check the other ingredients, especially the baking powder, for gluten content. Happy baking!
Is there a way to make these blondies a bit healthier?
Of course! You can substitute the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Additionally, using applesauce instead of some of the bananas can add moisture. If you’re looking for an even lighter option, consider leaving off the brown butter frosting and serving them with a side of Greek yogurt for added creaminess without the extra sugar!
Banana Bread Blondies: Fudgy, Easy Treats You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.
- Mash 2-3 ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, then 1 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add 1 egg and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Fold in 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for approx. 30 minutes.
- Allow the blondies to cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter in a saucepan until golden brown. Whisk in 2 cups powdered sugar and enough milk for desired consistency.
- Once cooled, drizzle or spread the frosting over the blondies, cut into squares, and serve.
Leave a Reply