If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of banana bread but crave something a little more decadent and chewy, then you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Banana Bread Blondies Recipe. It’s the perfect crossover between a classic banana bread and a rich, fudgy blondie that melts in your mouth with every bite. Think soft banana goodness combined with cinnamon-spiced sweetness and a luscious buttery glaze on top, making it an irresistible treat for any time of day. Whether you’re making it for your family breakfast or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these blondies add that special homemade touch you’ll want to share over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Banana Bread Blondies Recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each component is crucial, lending wonderful texture, flavor depth, and that inviting golden color. From the richness of melted butter to the natural sweetness of ripe banana, it all comes together beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Provides a rich, creamy base and adds moistness to keep the blondies soft.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup): Brings a warm sweetness with a hint of molasses that complements the banana perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall aroma and adds a subtle depth to the flavor profile.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder and contributes to the blondies’ moist, tender crumb.
- Mashed banana (½ cup): The star ingredient, packed with natural sweetness and a lovely fruity aroma.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides the structure needed for these blondies to hold together perfectly.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Cinnamon (1½ – 2 teaspoons): Adds warm, cozy spice that elevates the banana flavor wonderfully.
How to Make Banana Bread Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray to ensure those blondies come out effortlessly after baking. A well-prepared pan lays the groundwork for a perfect bake every time.
Step 2: Combine Butter, Sugar, and Salt
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and salt until the mixture is smooth and combined. This step is essential because the butter and sugar create the deliciously moist and tender base that these blondies are famous for.
Step 3: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Cinnamon
Next, stir in the egg, pure vanilla extract, and generous cinnamon to the butter-sugar mix. These ingredients build that comforting aroma and a wonderful warmth that make this Banana Bread Blondies Recipe truly special.
Step 4: Fold in Mashed Banana and Flour
Carefully fold the mashed banana into your wet ingredients, letting that natural sweetness infuse throughout. Then, gradually add the all-purpose flour. Stir just until you have a smooth batter—don’t overmix, or you’ll lose the tender texture you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Bake Until Set
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set but still moist. The blondies will firm up as they cool, so resist the urge to overbake.
Step 6: Make the Buttery Frosting and Frost
While the blondies cool completely, melt extra butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns a beautiful amber color. Stir in brown sugar, milk, and salt, then bring to a gentle boil. Once slightly cooled, whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you get a luscious frosting. Spread this over the cooled blondies and allow it to set before slicing—this adds a rich finishing touch that’s honestly irresistible.
How to Serve Banana Bread Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft blondie. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce will make them look as stunning as they taste.
Side Dishes
Serve these blondies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea, enhancing the warm cinnamon and banana notes.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate your Banana Bread Blondies Recipe for a gathering, cut them into bite-sized squares and place on a decorative platter with fresh berries and mint leaves. You can also layer pieces between slices of banana and cream cheese to create indulgent mini blondie sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain their moisture and fudgy texture, though they are usually devoured before that time!
Freezing
You can freeze these blondies by wrapping individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for a freshly baked feel.
Reheating
To revive their just-baked softness, warm blondies in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This quick step brings back that delightful chewy texture and releases the lovely aroma of cinnamon and banana.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for this Banana Bread Blondies Recipe because they’re sweeter and mash easily, enhancing the banana flavor and keeping the blondies moist.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
Look for a set center that’s no longer jiggly and lightly golden edges. You can also insert a toothpick; a few moist crumbs are okay, but it shouldn’t be wet with batter.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips will elevate the texture and add extra bursts of flavor that complement the cinnamon banana base beautifully.
Can I skip the frosting?
You certainly can if you prefer a simpler treat. The blondies are delicious on their own, but the frosting adds a delightful buttery sweetness that makes this recipe truly memorable.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Blondies Recipe is one of those treasures that turns an everyday ingredient like banana into something wonderfully indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is bound to become a go-to for moments when you want a cozy, sweet bite without too much fuss. So, grab those ripe bananas and get baking—you won’t regret it!
Print
Banana Bread Blondies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Banana Bread Blondies are a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, featuring a rich, moist texture with warm cinnamon and a luscious brown sugar butter frosting. Perfect for a comforting snack or dessert, they combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced batter baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Blondie Batter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup mashed banana (about one medium-large banana)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1½ – 2 teaspoons cinnamon (to taste)
Frosting
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- â…“ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the blondies later.
- Combine wet ingredients and sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add egg and spices: Crack in the large egg, add vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir the ingredients thoroughly until fully combined.
- Incorporate mashed banana and flour: Fold in the mashed banana gently, then gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring until the batter is smooth without overmixing.
- Bake the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool the blondies: Remove from the oven and allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare the frosting: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the additional butter until it turns amber in color. Stir in the brown sugar, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Once slightly cooled, whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Frost and serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled blondies. Allow the frosting to set for about 15 minutes, then slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the blondies tender.
- The frosting can be adjusted in thickness by adding more powdered sugar or milk as needed.
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour but expect a denser texture.
