As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet, comforting scent of ripe bananas filled the air, instantly bringing back memories of baking with my grandmother. It was during one of those cozy afternoons, when the world outside seemed far away, that I discovered the joy of banana blondies. These delightful treats combine all the richness of a classic dessert, yet they’re incredibly simple to whip up.
Whether you’re looking for a dessert that impresses at gatherings or a cozy snack for movie night, these blondies are the answer. The chewy texture, deep caramel flavor from brown sugar, and the heavenly aroma of vanilla and cinnamon create a blissful experience in every bite. And the best part? You can easily customize the recipe to cater to your dietary needs or preferences—feel free to toss in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips or switch out regular flour for a gluten-free option.
Join me in rediscovering the love for homemade desserts with these easy banana blondies—your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Banana Blondies a must-try?
Irresistibly Chewy: These banana blondies boast a delightful chewy texture that will have you reaching for seconds!
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress friends and family.
Versatile: Customize your batch by adding your favorite mix-ins or try experimenting with health-conscious substitutions like gluten-free flour or applesauce.
Deep Flavor: The rich combination of brown sugar and ripe bananas creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy family night, these blondies are sure to be the star of the dessert table.
Don’t forget to check out my guide on easy banana desserts for more delicious ideas!
Banana Blondies Ingredients
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup / 113g) – Adds richness and moisture. Substitution: You can substitute part with applesauce for a healthier option.
- Brown Sugar (1 cup / 200g) – Provides sweetness and a deep flavor; the molasses content enhances the recipe.
- Egg (1 large) – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor profile.
- Ripe Bananas (2 mashed, or 3 for stronger flavor) – Key ingredient for moisture and sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup / 125g) – Provides structure for the blondies.
- Baking Powder (½ teaspoon) – Leavening agent to help the blondies rise.
- Baking Soda (¼ teaspoon) – Works with baking powder for leavening.
- Cinnamon (½ teaspoon, optional) – Adds warmth and flavor complexity.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness of the blondies.
Optional Mix-Ins
- Chopped Nuts (½ cup) – Such as walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Chocolate Chips (½ cup) – A delicious addition that enhances the overall flavor.
Embrace the delightful world of banana blondies with these wonderful ingredients!
How to Make Banana Blondies
-
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line or grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
-
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, then fold in the mashed bananas until well combined.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly mixed. This helps ensure a fluffy blondie texture!
-
Fold Mixtures Together: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredient mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. If you’d like to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips, now is the time!
-
Bake Delightfully: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are a light golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
-
Cool and Slice: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 15–20 minutes. Once cooled, slice them into squares and enjoy your sweet creations!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Banana Blondies
- Choose Ripe Bananas: Use bananas with plenty of brown spots—this ensures optimal sweetness and flavor in your banana blondies.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture only until just combined to keep your blondies tender and chewy.
- Bake Until Underbaked: Aim for a slightly underbaked center; this keeps your blondies gooey and soft, rather than dry.
- Experiment Wisely: Feel free to add different mix-ins, but avoid too many high-moisture ingredients to maintain the perfect texture.
- Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy later!
Storage Tips for Banana Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your banana blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: Keep them in the fridge for up to a week; just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds, bringing back that gooey goodness in your banana blondies!
What to Serve with Banana Blondies?
There’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of freshly baked blondies filling your home, beckoning for the perfect side companions.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, ice cream melts into the warm blondies, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
-
Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or blueberries add a burst of acidity, balancing the sweetness and providing a refreshing contrast.
-
Chopped Nuts: Serve some toasted walnuts or pecans on the side for added crunch and nuttiness that complements the banana flavor.
-
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the presentation and flavor by drizzling melted dark chocolate over your blondies for a touch of indulgence.
-
Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle can make for a luxurious treat, making each bite oh-so-sweet and decadent.
-
Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea pairs beautifully with the richness of the blondies, enhancing the overall experience.
-
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream adds a tropical twist, making every bite feel like a vacation.
-
Chocolate Milkshake: For a fun, nostalgic pairing, serve a thick chocolate milkshake; it’s a match made in dessert heaven!
Banana Blondies Variations
Feel free to tailor these banana blondies to match your cravings and dietary needs!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a delightful result everyone can enjoy.
-
Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit for a sweet treat without the added sugar guilt.
-
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg, and use coconut oil in place of butter for a plant-based option.
-
Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of almond or cashew butter into the batter for a rich, nutty flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.
-
Cocoa Twist: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolatey upgrade; sweeten with a few extra tablespoons of sugar if needed.
-
Seasonal Spices: Enhance the flavor with additional spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a cozy, warm note—perfect for chilly days.
-
Fruity Fun: Toss in some blueberries or diced apples for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the bananas perfectly.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to give your blondies an unexpected but exciting kick that’ll surprise your taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare your batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in the fridge (this helps prevent the bananas from browning). For even more convenience, you can add any optional mix-ins ahead of time as well. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the mixtures and pour them into the prepared pan, then bake as directed. By following these simple steps, you’ll achieve the same delicious, warm blondies without the last-minute rush, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks!
Banana Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
Absolutely! The best bananas for banana blondies are those with plenty of brown spots all over the peel. They should be soft to the touch, indicating they are overripe. This ripeness enhances the sweetness and flavor, making your blondies extra delicious. If they’re mostly yellow with just a few blemishes, let them sit at room temperature for a couple more days.
Advertisement
What’s the best way to store leftover banana blondies?
Very good question! For storing your banana blondies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before serving as it helps restore the lovely, chewy texture.
Can I freeze banana blondies, and how do I do that?
Yes, you can freeze banana blondies! To do this, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They should stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.
What should I do if my blondies come out too dry?
If your banana blondies end up dry, it may be due to overbaking. Aim for a slightly underbaked center—the edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted should come out with some moist crumbs, not completely clean. To salvage dry blondies, try serving them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce to add moisture.
Are banana blondies safe for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Many of my friends who follow a gluten-free diet have loved this adaptation. Just make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps replicate the texture of regular flour.
Irresistible Banana Blondies: Easy Chewy Treats You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line or grease an 8x8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, then fold in the mashed bananas until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredient mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are a light golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 15–20 minutes. Once cooled, slice them into squares and enjoy!