The moment I pulled these Banana Bread Blondies from the oven, the heavenly aroma enveloped the kitchen, instantly uplifting my spirits. There’s something magical about transforming simple overripe bananas into a moist and fudgy treat that not only tastes extraordinary but also tugs at the heartstrings of nostalgia. This one-bowl recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a quick dessert that doubles as a delightful breakfast option—no need to reach for fast food! Whether you choose to smother them in rich brown butter frosting or enjoy them plain, you’ll be delighted by the layers of banana flavor with every bite. Curious how to make these scrumptious blondies your new favorite indulgence? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love These Blondies!
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-bowl recipe makes whipping up these Banana Bread Blondies a breeze, with minimal cleanup required!
Decadent Flavor: The combination of overripe bananas and warm cinnamon offers a comforting flavor that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Versatile Treat: Whether enjoyed as a decadent dessert or a breakfast pick-me-up, these blondies fit seamlessly into any occasion. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a rich cup of coffee for the ultimate indulgence!
Crowd Pleaser: With their fudgy texture and mouthwatering aroma, they are sure to impress family and friends—perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Nutritional Flexibility: Easily make these treats gluten-free by swapping in your favorite gluten-free flour or customize them with chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. For even more deliciousness, serve them with a side of Finger Garlic Bread for a fun twist!
Banana Bread Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondies
- Overripe Bananas – Adding natural sweetness and moisture, these are essential for the best flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Provides a deep caramel-like sweetness; feel free to substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the blondies; swap for a gluten-free flour blend for a GF version.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to texture; can be omitted or replaced with a flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
- Butter – Adds rich flavor and moisture; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor profile with warm notes; nutmeg or pumpkin spice can be added for variation.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; no substitutes needed.
For the Brown Butter Frosting (Optional)
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a smooth texture for the frosting; reduce for a less sweet option or experiment with alternatives for a lighter taste.
- Brown Butter – Adds a rich and nutty flavor; be sure to melt until browned for the best results.
- Milk – A splash helps to achieve a smooth consistency; non-dairy milk works too!
Making these Banana Bread Blondies is a delight for both the baker and the lucky taste testers. You’ll love the simplicity and unforgettable flavors!
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 heats up, take an 8×8 baking pan and grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures that your Banana Bread Blondies will bake evenly and come out perfectly moist and fudgy.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, take your overripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they form a smooth and creamy consistency, free of lumps. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes. The more thoroughly you mash the bananas, the more moisture and flavor will infuse into your blondies, adding to their delectable texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the brown sugar, melted butter, and egg to the mashed bananas in the bowl. Use a whisk or spatula to mix everything together until fully blended and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. This creates a rich base for your Banana Bread Blondies, setting the stage for the warm flavors to shine through.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick and slightly speckled with banana. This step is crucial as it helps maintain the fudgy texture that makes these blondies irresistible.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and use a spatula to smooth out the top, ensuring even thickness. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know your Banana Bread Blondies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs—ideal for that fudgy interior.
Step 6: Cool the Blondies
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it allows the flavors to set and makes frosting or slicing them easier without them falling apart.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
While the blondies are cooling, you can prepare the brown butter frosting if desired. In a small bowl, mix melted brown butter with powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy. This delectable frosting adds a rich layer of flavor to elevate your Banana Bread Blondies even further.
Step 8: Cool and Frost
After the blondies have cooled completely, generously spread the brown butter frosting over the top if using. Alternatively, you can enjoy them plain for a less sweet option. Let the frosting set for a few minutes before cutting them into squares for serving, showcasing their delightful moist and fudgy texture.
Banana Bread Blondies Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to make these Banana Bread Blondies uniquely yours with just a few tasty tweaks!
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Vegan: Omit the egg and replace it with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for binding.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free version that everyone will enjoy.
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Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar, maintaining that sweet flavor without the guilt.
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Nutty Flavor: Fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a rich, nutty taste that pairs perfectly with sweet bananas.
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Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking, creating rich, melty pockets of chocolate goodness.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of pumpkin spice along with the cinnamon for a warm, autumnal flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
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Frosting Variations: Swap brown butter frosting for a cream cheese or chocolate buttercream frosting for a different, yet equally delicious, topping option.
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No Frosting: Enjoy these blondies plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a simpler, lower-sugar treat. For a sidekick, consider whipping up a batch of Finger Garlic Bread for a unique pairing!
With these variations, you can get creative and delight in discovering new flavor combinations that suit your taste!
What to Serve with Moist and Fudgy Banana Bread Blondies
Indulging in a slice of these luscious blondies is a delightful experience, and pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your treat into a full meal or gathering option.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, it perfectly contrasts the warm fudginess of the blondies, creating a comforting dessert moment.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Soft and airy, this light topping adds a touch of sweetness, enhancing the lovely banana flavor.
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Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of a hot beverage balance the sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for breakfast or dessert.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted chocolate drizzled on top adds richness and an irresistible twist to the blondies’ flavor profile.
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Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top provide a crunchy texture that complements the soft crumb of the blondies.
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Berry Compote: A warm fruit sauce made from berries introduces a tangy contrast, rounding out the sweetness with freshness.
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Nut Butter Spread: A smear of almond or peanut butter lends a nutty depth, transforming your blondie into a delightful snack between meals.
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Tea: A fragrant cup of herbal or black tea complements the cozy flavors of banana and cinnamon, perfect for an afternoon treat.
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Chocolate Milk: A childhood favorite reimagined as an adult delight, it pairs beautifully with the richness of the blondies for a fun twist.
These combinations turn the delightful experience of banana bread blondies into a feast for the senses, inviting everyone to savor every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Blondies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them without the rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mash the bananas and mix all the ingredients (except for the flour), then refrigerate. Just before baking, add in the flour and proceed with pouring the batter into the baking pan. Additionally, the blondies can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. Before serving, simply warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have deliciously moist Banana Bread Blondies ready to indulge in whenever you need a sweet treat!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Blondies
- Banana Quality Matters: Use overripe bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture in your Banana Bread Blondies.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep blondies dense and fudgy rather than cake-like; it’s a common mistake!
- Watch the Oven Timer: Keep an eye on your baking time; start checking for doneness a few minutes early, as oven temperatures vary.
- Cool Before Frosting: Let the blondies cool completely before applying frosting to prevent it from melting into a gooey mess.
- Add Mix-Ins: Consider folding in chocolate chips or nuts into the batter for a delightful twist and extra texture in your Banana Bread Blondies!
Storage Tips for Banana Bread Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your Banana Bread Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and fresh for snacking!
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate the blondies for up to a week in a sealed container. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for optimal softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you’d like a warm treat, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. The fudgy goodness will return, and you’ll be reminded of that fresh-baked flavor!
Banana Bread Blondies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use?
For the best results, use overripe bananas that are soft and have plenty of brown spots. This not only enhances the natural sweetness, but also contributes to the moist texture of your Banana Bread Blondies. If your bananas are not overly ripe yet, simply let them sit on the counter for a few days to achieve that perfect consistency.
How should I store my blondies?
To keep your Banana Bread 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. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for that soft, fudgy texture!
Can I freeze Banana Bread Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze your blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.
What if my blondies don’t seem to be baking properly?
If you find that your Banana Bread Blondies are not baking evenly, it could be due to your oven temperature. I recommend using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. If they are undercooked in the middle, you can return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick afterward.
Are these blondies suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily customize these Banana Bread Blondies for dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter. Additionally, you can make these blondies vegan by replacing the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water—just combine one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two and a half tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens!
Deliciously Moist Banana Bread Blondies You'll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Mash the overripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add brown sugar, melted butter, and egg to the mashed bananas. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salt until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 30 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the brown butter frosting by mixing melted brown butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
- Once cooled, spread the frosting over the blondies before cutting them into squares.
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