Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s quick to whip up and sure to please, you’ve landed in the right spot! These Banana Blondies are part of my cherished collection, lovingly titled Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love. This recipe is truly special because it captures the essence of ripe bananas in a chewy, sweet bar that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight when you need a little something sweet or a family gathering where everyone is craving dessert, these blondies fit the bill.

They are incredibly easy to make and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just ten minutes of prep time, these blondies are perfect for last-minute baking.
• Family-friendly: Kids love them! They’re chewy and sweet, making them an instant hit at any family gathering.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake a batch in advance; they store well and taste even better after a day!
• Delicious banana flavor: The ripe bananas give these blondies their signature taste that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of ripe bananas and brown sugar creates a deliciously moist treat that is hard to resist.

Basic Ingredients

• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed (or 3 for stronger banana flavor)
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Mix-ins

• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best things about these Banana Blondies is how flexible they are! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you enjoy most.

• Go nutty: Add chopped almonds or hazelnuts instead of walnuts or pecans for a different crunch.
• Chocolate lover’s twist: Fold in some dark chocolate chunks or swirl in peanut butter before baking.
• Add spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.
• Make it tropical: Incorporate shredded coconut or diced pineapple for a fun tropical vibe!

How to Make Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy. While it’s heating up, line or grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. This combination not only creates moisture but also adds rich flavor. Next, stir in the egg and vanilla extract followed by those mashed bananas. It should smell heavenly!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to combine! Pour the dry mixture into the wet banana mixture. Stir gently just until combined—be careful not to overmix as this can make your blondies tough. If you’re using any optional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now!

Step 5: Bake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until the edges look golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The smell wafting from your oven will be simply irresistible!

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow your blondies to cool in the pan for about 15–20 minutes before slicing them into squares. This cooling period helps them set up nicely so they don’t fall apart when you cut them.

And there you have it—a simple yet delicious recipe that showcases how wonderful bananas can be! Enjoy sharing these banana blondies with friends and family; I promise they’ll love them as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love

Making banana blondies is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your blondies will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for optimal taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to ensure your blondies remain chewy and tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that’s not as enjoyable.
• Try different mix-ins: Experiment with various nuts or chocolate chips. Each addition adds a unique flavor and texture, making each batch special.
• Check for doneness early: Every oven is different, so start checking around the 25-minute mark. You want the edges golden and a toothpick to come out mostly clean for that perfect chewy center.
• Allow cooling time: Giving your blondies 15-20 minutes to cool in the pan helps them set properly, making it easier to slice into neat squares without falling apart.

How to Serve Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love

Banana blondies are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways! Here are some fun ideas for presenting this delectable dessert.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavor of the blondies.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the bananas perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm banana blondies, creating a delightful warm-and-cold contrast.
• Fresh berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast that brightens up each bite of sweet blondie.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer your banana blondies with yogurt and granola for a fun twist on dessert that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
• Chocolate sauce: Drizzling some rich chocolate sauce over each square adds an indulgent element that chocolate lovers will adore.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a memorable treat that everyone will love. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These banana blondies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or share them with friends and family. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow blondies to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut blondies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months—just label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen blondies overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a warm treat, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries about banana blondies.

What can I use instead of eggs in Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love?

You can substitute one egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. This keeps your blondies moist and delicious while accommodating egg-free diets!

Can I use frozen bananas in Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love?

Absolutely! Just thaw the frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing. They’ll add great flavor and moisture to your blondies.

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

Bake until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs are okay; you don’t want to overbake them!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen as it has in mine! These chewy banana blondies are not just simple to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them according to your tastes. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or saving some for later, I truly hope you find this recipe special. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share these delightful treats with your loved ones!