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! Perfect for any occasion, these blondies are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just one bowl and minimal prep time, making it a breeze to whip up.
- Deliciously Moist: The combination of mashed bananas and brown sugar results in a rich texture that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even for breakfast with coffee!
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The warm notes of cinnamon and buttery frosting create a delightful flavor combination loved by all.
- Perfect for Leftover Bananas: Use those overripe bananas sitting on your counter for a tasty treat!
Tools and Preparation
To make these Banana Bread Blondies, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8 x 8 inch baking pan
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect blondie texture.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl is essential for mixing ingredients without making a mess.
- Saucepan: Necessary for preparing the delicious brown butter frosting that tops these blondies.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make your Banana Bread Blondies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter-melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ -2 teaspoon cinnamon (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup flour
- ½ cup mashed banana (one medium-large banana)
- 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 the finished blondies out. Spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium bowl, mix together:
1. Melted butter,
2. Light brown sugar,
3. Salt.
Add:
4. Egg,
5. Vanilla,
6. Cinnamon.
Mix until well combined. Then add:
7. Mashed banana,
8. Flour.
Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the top using a spatula. Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until the center has set. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt:
1. Butter until it reaches a nice amber color while stirring constantly (be careful not to burn it).
Then add:
2. Brown sugar,
3. Milk,
4. Dash of salt.
Stir this mixture until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for about 10–15 minutes.
Step 5: Frosting Finish
Whisk in:
1. Vanilla,
2. Powdered sugar.
Spread this delicious frosting over your cooled blondies once set. Allow frosting to set before slicing into squares and serving.
Enjoy your homemade Banana Bread Blondies!
How to Serve Banana Bread Blondies
Banana Bread Blondies are a delightful treat that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream – The classic flavor complements the banana and brown sugar notes perfectly.
- Cinnamon ice cream – Adds a warm spice to each bite, enhancing the cinnamon in the blondies.
- Chocolate ice cream – A rich pairing that brings out the sweetness of the blondies.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Warm caramel sauce – A warm drizzle adds an indulgent touch and enhances the moist texture of the blondies.
- Sea salt caramel – The contrast of sweet and salty creates a delicious balance, perfect for those who love a flavor twist.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light whipped cream – A dollop on top gives a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the fudgy blondies.
- Flavored whipped cream (like vanilla or cinnamon) – Adds an extra layer of taste that complements the dish beautifully.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Sliced bananas – Reinforces the banana flavor while adding freshness to each bite.
- Berries (like strawberries or raspberries) – Their tartness provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet blondies.
How to Perfect Banana Bread Blondies
Perfecting your Banana Bread Blondies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.
- Use ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your blondies will be.
- Don’t overmix – Mixing until just combined keeps the blondies moist and avoids a tough texture.
- Check for doneness – Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean but not completely dry to ensure fudginess.
- Let cool properly – Allowing them to cool fully before cutting helps maintain their shape and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Blondies
Pairing side dishes with your Banana Bread Blondies can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some great options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the sweetness of the blondies.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides creamy contrast and crunch, making it a delightful combination.
- Nut Mix – A bowl of mixed nuts offers crunchiness and healthy fats, complementing the soft texture of the blondies.
- Chocolate Chips – Serve on the side for those who want an extra chocolatey touch alongside their dessert.
- Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage rounds out dessert time, providing warmth and comfort alongside these sweet treats.
- Cheese Platter – Soft cheeses like brie add richness, creating an interesting flavor profile when paired with blondies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Banana Bread Blondies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using Overripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are ripe but not overly mushy. Overripe bananas can make the blondies too dense.
- Skipping the Brown Butter: Brown butter adds a rich flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your blondies significantly.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy. Inaccurate measurements can lead to dry or overly moist blondies.
- Baking Time Variations: Keep an eye on your blondies as oven temperatures can vary. Test for doneness with a toothpick to avoid underbaking or overbaking.
- Cooling Too Quickly: Allow the blondies to cool completely before frosting. Frosting warm blondies can lead to a melted mess that doesn’t set properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Banana Bread Blondies
- Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Banana Bread Blondies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Banana Bread Blondies.
How do I know when my Banana Bread Blondies are done?
You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I customize my Banana Bread Blondies?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.
What is the best way to store Banana Bread Blondies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for short-term storage, or freeze them for long-term preservation.
Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and well-drained before mashing.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Bread Blondies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They are versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends!