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! Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings, these blondies will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With only one bowl needed for preparation, cleanup is a breeze.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and brown sugar creates a wonderfully moist texture.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night at home.
• Frosting Perfection: The brown butter frosting adds an irresistible touch that elevates the flavor.
• Quick Baking Time: Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8 x 8 inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Medium mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Whisk: A good whisk is essential for combining ingredients smoothly and effectively.
• Aluminum Foil: Lining the pan makes it easy to lift out the blondies after baking.

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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 Brown Butter 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. Spray it lightly with cooking spray and set aside.

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. Mix thoroughly before incorporating the mashed banana.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour while stirring until fully combined and smooth. Pour this batter into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top evenly.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the center is set. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Cook it until it reaches a nice amber color while stirring constantly—be careful not to burn it! Add in brown sugar, milk, and a dash of salt. Stir until it comes to a boil then remove from heat. Allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Frosting

Whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this delicious frosting over your cooled blondies. Let it set before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy these delightful Banana Bread Blondies as a sweet treat that everyone will love!

How to Serve Banana Bread Blondies

These Banana Bread Blondies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon treat or a festive gathering. Here are some delightful ways to serve them that will impress your guests and elevate your dessert experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The classic pairing adds creaminess that complements the moist blondies.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream – A spiced twist that enhances the flavors of cinnamon in the blondies.
• Chocolate Ice Cream – For chocolate lovers, this pairing creates a rich, indulgent dessert.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Warm Caramel – A warm drizzle adds extra sweetness and richness to each bite.
• Salted Caramel – The contrast of sweet and salty takes these blondies to another level.

Topped with Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Bananas – Fresh bananas on top enhance the banana flavor while adding freshness.
• Berries – Raspberries or strawberries provide a tart balance to the sweetness of the blondies.

Served with Whipped Cream

• Classic Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and complements the rich frosting.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Consider vanilla or cinnamon-infused whipped cream for added depth.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Blondies

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your Banana Bread Blondies, follow these simple tips. Each step can make a noticeable difference in your final product.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your blondies will be.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense blondies; mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary; start checking at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt off and maintains its beautiful appearance.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Blondies

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

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and berries adds a creamy crunch that contrasts nicely with the blondies.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that complement the sweet flavors of the blondies.
4. Nut Mix – A crunchy nut mix brings additional texture and flavor contrasts when enjoyed alongside your dessert.
5. Chocolate Covered Strawberries – These add an elegant touch and delicious chocolatey goodness to every bite.
6. Tea or Coffee – A warm beverage pairs perfectly, balancing sweetness while enhancing flavors during dessert time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Banana Bread Blondies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Incorrect Measurements: Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately. Too much flour can lead to dry blondies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in tough blondies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the blondies to cool completely before cutting is essential. Cutting them too soon can lead to a messy result.
• Not Checking for Doneness: Always check your blondies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The edges should be set while the center may still look slightly underbaked.
• Using Old Bananas: Fresh, ripe bananas give the best flavor and moisture. Ensure your bananas are properly ripened for maximum sweetness.
• Ignoring Frosting Consistency: The frosting should be spreadable but not runny. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, a little milk will help.

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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 blondies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag; they will last for up to three months.

Reheating Banana Bread Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place blondies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on low power for 10-15 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become dry.
• Stovetop: Place a blondie in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Banana Bread Blondies.

What are Banana Bread Blondies?

Banana Bread Blondies are fudgy dessert bars that combine the flavors of banana bread with the richness of blondies. They are moist and sweet, perfect for any occasion.

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

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached but not wet batter.

Can I customize my Banana Bread Blondies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover Banana Bread Blondies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours like almond flour or oat flour. Adjustments may be needed based on the type of flour used.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Bread Blondies are irresistibly delicious and versatile enough for any gathering or snack time. With their rich flavor profile and simple preparation, you can’t go wrong trying this recipe! Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!