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 makes the best moist and fudgy banana blondies, with brown sugar and cinnamon. And, with sweet brown butter frosting, they are extra delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just one bowl and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of bananas, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates a rich and satisfying flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home with family.
• Moist and Fudgy Texture: These blondies offer a delightful chewy texture that sets them apart from traditional cake.
• Irresistible Brown Butter Frosting: The addition of brown butter frosting elevates these blondies to the next level.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8 x 8 inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking and proper texture.
• Aluminum foil: Helps in lifting out the blondies easily without breaking them.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for efficient mixing and preparation of ingredients.

Ingredients

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. This will make it easier to lift out the blondies later. Spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, light brown sugar, and salt until well combined. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until fully mixed. Then add in the mashed banana; mix again until incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually add in the flour. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Pour this batter into your prepared baking pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the center has set. Once done, remove from oven and allow cooling to room temperature.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

For the frosting, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it reaches a nice amber color while stirring constantly—be careful not to burn it! Add brown sugar, milk, and a dash of salt; stir well and bring this mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool for about 10–15 minutes.

Step 6: Frost Your Blondies

Whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this frosting over your cooled blondies once they have set. Allow frosting to firm up before slicing into squares for serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Banana Bread Blondies

Banana Bread Blondies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, these blondies can be the star of your dessert table.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas – Add fresh banana slices on top for a burst of flavor and added texture.
• Berries – Serve with strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing; the creaminess complements the fudgy texture of the blondies.
• Coconut Sorbet – For a dairy-free option, serve with coconut sorbet for a tropical twist.

Toppings and Sauces

• Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate over the blondies for an extra indulgent treat.
• Caramel Sauce – A warm caramel sauce adds richness and enhances the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Blondies

Perfecting your Banana Bread Blondies is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use Ripe Bananas – Ripe bananas not only add sweetness but also enhance moisture in the blondies.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep your blondies tender and fudgy.
• Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Allow blondies to cool completely to avoid melting your frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Blondies

Pairing side dishes with Banana Bread Blondies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad balances the sweetness of blondies; add vinaigrette dressing.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy complement.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; they offer a savory contrast.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These add decadence while matching well with banana flavors.
5. Nut Mix – A crunchy nut mix provides texture and pairs nicely with soft blondies.
6. Herbal Tea – Serve with chamomile or mint tea for a soothing finish after dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bread Blondies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your blondies turn out perfectly every time.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Too much flour can lead to dry blondies, while too little can cause them to be overly moist.
• Ignoring the ripeness of bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. Overripe bananas provide the perfect texture and taste for your blondies.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing your blondies to cool completely before frosting is crucial. This ensures the frosting sets properly and does not melt off.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Remove your blondies from the oven when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs for that fudgy texture.
• Not lining the pan: Lining your pan with foil or parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the blondies after baking. Skipping this step could result in messy servings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Banana Bread Blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Banana Bread Blondies

• Wrap individual blondie squares tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Frozen blondies can last up to three months.

Reheating Banana Bread Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place blondies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a blondie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Banana Bread Blondies that might help you on your baking journey.

What makes Banana Bread Blondies different from regular banana bread?

Banana Bread Blondies have a denser, fudgy texture compared to traditional banana bread, which is more cake-like. The addition of brown sugar gives them a rich flavor reminiscent of classic blondies.

Can I add chocolate chips to Banana Bread Blondies?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a great way to enhance the flavor of Banana Bread Blondies. Just fold in about half a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

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

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready! Avoid overbaking them for that chewy texture you desire.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Thaw frozen bananas before using them in your recipe. They’ll be softer and easier to mash, making them perfect for these blondies.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bread Blondies are an irresistible treat that combines the best of both worlds—banana bread and fudgy blondies. They’re perfect for dessert or as an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize them with nuts or chocolate chips according to your taste preferences!