Banana Bread Blondies

If you love banana bread AND blondies as well, you must try these easy Banana Bread Blondies. This simple, one-bowl dessert recipe combines the moistness of banana bread with the rich flavors of blondies. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are enhanced with warm brown sugar and cinnamon, plus a delightful brown butter frosting that takes them to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of mashed bananas and brown sugar creates a soft and fudgy texture.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these blondies as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat!
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares for parties or gatherings; they’re sure to impress your friends and family.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Banana Bread Blondies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and help ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (8 x 8 inch)
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl is perfect for combining all your ingredients without mess.
• Baking pan: An 8 x 8 inch pan is ideal for creating thick and chewy blondies.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth batter by mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Saucepan: This is necessary for making the luscious brown butter frosting that tops the blondies.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delicious Banana Bread Blondies:

For the Blondies

• ½ cup unsalted butter – melted
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ -2 teaspoons cinnamon (to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup flour
• ½ cup mashed banana (one medium-large banana)

For the Frosting

• ¼ cup butter
• 6 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Dash of salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make Banana Bread Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift out the finished blondies easily. Spray with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter, light brown sugar, and salt.
2. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the mashed banana until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Flour

Add flour into the mixture:
1. Stir until combined and smooth.
2. Pour this batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top.

Step 4: Bake

Place in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the center has set.
2. Remove from oven and allow cooling at room temperature.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat until it reaches a nice amber color while stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. Add brown sugar, milk, and a dash of salt; stir well until boiling.
3. Remove from heat; let cool for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Up

Whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar:
1. Spread this frosting over cooled blondies.
2. Allow frosting to set before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delightful Banana Bread Blondies!

How to Serve Banana Bread Blondies

Banana Bread Blondies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying them at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas – Top each blondie with fresh banana slices for an extra burst of flavor.
• Berries – Serve with a side of strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm blondies perfectly.
• Chocolate Ice Cream – For chocolate lovers, pairing with chocolate ice cream adds a decadent touch.

With Whipped Topping

• Homemade Whipped Cream – Light and airy whipped cream balances the richness of the blondies.
• Coconut Whipped Cream – For a tropical twist, use coconut-flavored whipped topping.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Coffee Pairing – Enjoy these blondies with your morning coffee for a sweet start to the day.
• With Yogurt – Crumble over yogurt for an easy breakfast option that combines flavors and textures.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Blondies

To ensure your Banana Bread Blondies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your blondies will be.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately – Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision in your ingredients.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix until just combined to maintain a moist and fudgy texture.
• Test for Doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Allow blondies to cool at room temperature to prevent the frosting from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Blondies

Pairing side dishes with Banana Bread Blondies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Vanilla Pudding – Creamy and smooth, vanilla pudding complements the dense blondie texture beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits cleanses the palate between bites of rich blondie.
3. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over blondies for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
4. Caramel Sauce – Sweet caramel adds richness and blends well with banana flavors, making each bite delightful.
5. Nuts and Seeds Mix – A crunchy mix provides texture contrast; consider almonds or walnuts for added flavor.
6. Chia Seed Pudding – This healthy option pairs well with the sweetness of blondies while adding nutrition.
7. Coconut Macaroons – Chewy macaroons offer another layer of flavor that complements banana desserts nicely.
8. Coffee Cake Muffins – Serve mini muffins alongside for a delightful brunch spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bread Blondies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final product. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skip measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are vital for achieving the right texture and flavor. Always use measuring cups and spoons.

• Boldly underbake the blondies: If you take them out too soon, they can be gooey in the center. Bake until the edges are golden and the center is set.

• Boldly ignore cooling time: Cutting into warm blondies can result in a messy slice. Allow them to cool completely before serving for cleaner squares.

• Boldly rush the frosting: Letting the frosting cool before whisking in sugar is essential for a smooth finish. Rushing this step may cause a grainy texture.

• Boldly substitute ingredients without consideration: Not all substitutions work well in baking. Stick to recommended alternatives for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Banana Bread Blondies

• Wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bread Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place blondies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat one blondie at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a blondie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Banana Bread Blondies:

How do I know when my Banana Bread Blondies are done?

The blondies are done when the edges are lightly browned and the center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Thaw your frozen bananas completely and mash them well. They will work perfectly in your Banana Bread Blondies.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added flavor and texture.

How do I make Vegan Banana Bread Blondies?

To make these blondies vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter alternatives.

What should I serve with Banana Bread Blondies?

These blondies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

Banana Bread Blondies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste. This recipe combines the warmth of banana bread with the rich sweetness of blondies, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!