There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. Now imagine transforming that beloved classic into something even more decadent—enter these Chewy Banana Bread Blondies! With their moist, fudgy texture and rich brown butter glaze, they strike the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or looking to impress friends at your next gathering, these blondies offer a delightful twist on traditional banana bread.
Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise, or swirl in creamy peanut butter for an extra layer of deliciousness. Bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make, these blondies are here to satisfy your sweet cravings like never before. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious dessert that’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around!
Why love these Banana Bread Blondies?
Irresistible sweetness: These blondies offer a deliciously rich caramel-like flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Easy to customize: With variations like Nutella Swirl and Spiced versions, there’s something for everyone!
Perfect texture: Enjoy that soft, chewy bite reminiscent of your favorite banana bread but with a fudgy twist.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, coffee breaks, or as a charming homemade gift that impresses anytime.
Quick to bake: Whip them up in under an hour, so you can enjoy fresh-baked bliss with minimal effort!
Banana Bread Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondies
• Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a subtle caramel flavor; can be replaced with granulated sugar.
• Large Eggs – Adds structure; for a vegan option, use 1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• Mashed Ripe Bananas (2-3 medium) – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; overripe bananas are best.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the blondies; for gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Ensure proper rise and soft texture.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional) – Adds crunch and texture; can be swapped with chocolate chips.
For the Brown Butter Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a smooth texture for the glaze.
• Milk or Cream (3-4 tbsp) – Adjust glaze consistency; non-dairy milk works for a vegan version.
• Chocolate Chips (optional) – Adds a delightful chocolatey goodness; any type will do.
• Chopped Toffee Bits (optional) – Gives an extra sweet crunch and flavor.
• Sprinkles (for decoration) – A fun touch for your finished blondies!
These Banana Bread Blondies are not just another dessert; they’re a heartfelt creation that brings comfort and joy to any occasion, enticing everyone around with their delightful aroma and flavor!
How to Make Banana Bread Blondies
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Melt Butter: Begin by melting unsalted butter in a microwave or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly before moving on to the next step. This will prevent cooking the eggs later on.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the large eggs and pure vanilla extract until fully combined, creating a rich base.
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Mash Bananas: In a separate bowl, take 2-3 medium ripe bananas and mash them until smooth. The more overripe they are, the sweeter and tastier your blondies will be!
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Combine Mixtures: Gently mix the mashed bananas into the butter mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as we want to keep that tender, chewy texture.
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Blend Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
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Integrate Dry Into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until incorporated, avoiding any over-mixing for optimal texture.
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Fold in Add-ins: If you’re using optional add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts, now’s the time to gently fold them into the batter, enhancing the flavor and texture.
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Prepare Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will ensure your blondies come out easily and have that perfect crust.
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Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool Completely: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set up nicely.
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Brown Butter Glaze: While the blondies cool, melt additional butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it turns golden brown, giving you that nutty, rich flavor—then let it cool slightly.
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Mix Glaze Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, brown butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust with more milk for a smoother consistency, if needed.
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Frost Blondies: Once the blondies are completely cool, pour the glaze over them, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
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Serve: Allow the glaze to set briefly before cutting into squares. Enjoy these with friends or as a delicious treat anytime!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Blondies
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Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are overripe for maximum sweetness and moisture, making your blondies irresistible.
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Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough blondies instead of the desired chewy texture.
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Cool Before Glazing: Allow the blondies to cool completely before adding the glaze. This helps it adhere better and creates a smooth finish.
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Customize Wisely: When adding optional ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips, be mindful of ratios to keep the blondies from becoming overly dense.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; different ovens vary. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Blondies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness with less hassle! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them before refrigerating. If you’re ready to bake, spread the batter in the pan, and it will still yield that perfect chewy texture. You can also make the brown butter glaze ahead of time; just store it in the refrigerator and warm it slightly before frosting the cooled blondies. This way, you’ll have your sweet treat ready to go for busy weeknights or surprise guests—just as delicious and convenient!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Blondies?
Elevate your dessert game by pairing these delightful blondies with complementary sides that enhance their sweet charm!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, fudgy blondies, creating a decadent treat. Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
- Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or blueberries add a fresh touch, balancing the richness of the blondies while adding a pop of color to your dessert spread.
- Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee enhances the dessert experience, offering a perfect balance to the sweetness. Consider trying it with a splash of cream for extra richness.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream complements the dense blondies, creating a delightful texture contrast that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
- Chocolate Sauce: For true chocolate lovers, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce adds an indulgent layer of flavor that enhances the already sweet profile of the blondies.
- Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a crunchy texture, enhancing the blondies’ chewy base and bringing out their nutty notes.
- Milkshake: Blend vanilla ice cream with milk for a creamy milkshake that’s a delightful match, especially for a nostalgic twist on dessert time!
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream provides a tropical flair and complements the banana flavor beautifully.
Storage Tips for Banana Bread Blondies
Room Temperature: Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the blondies in an airtight container. They should stay delicious for up to 1 week.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave frozen blondies for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through, enhancing their fudgy goodness!
Banana Bread Blondies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to sprinkle your own unique flair into these delightful blondies, elevating your baking experience with every delicious bite!
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Chocolate Chip: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips for an ooey-gooey delight that enhances the sweetness. The creamy chocolate pairs beautifully with the bananah goodness for a truly decadent treat!
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Nutella Swirl: Add a few tablespoons of Nutella to the batter and swirl it in before baking. This creates delightful pockets of hazelnut chocolate goodness that will have everyone craving more.
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Peanut Butter: Fold in creamy or crunchy peanut butter for a nutty twist, or swirl it for a marbled effect. The combination of banana and peanut butter is a match made in dessert heaven!
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Spiced Version: Increase the spice level by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even some ginger. This warm twist will bring a cozy aroma to your kitchen and add a comforting hug to each bite.
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Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and swap the butter for vegan butter. Enjoy your blondies without compromising on flavor or texture!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. Your blondies will still come out chewy and irresistibly tasty.
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Add More Texture: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The added nuts provide a wonderful contrast to the soft, chewy blondies.
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Caramel Drizzle: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the glazed blondies. This decadent addition will elevate your dessert to a whole new level!
Banana Bread Blondies Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use overripe bananas that have dark spots or are almost completely brown. These bananas are sweeter and yield a delightful softness in your blondies.
How should I store leftover blondies?
Great question! You can store leftover Banana Bread Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresher longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re sealed to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze the blondies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Banana Bread Blondies, first wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for 20-30 seconds for a warm treat!
What should I do if my blondies turn out too dense?
No worries! A common reason for dense blondies is overmixing the batter. To achieve that perfect chewy texture, mix until just combined after adding dry ingredients. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder and soda are fresh, as older leavening agents might not rise properly. If you’re still facing issues, check your oven temperature using an oven thermometer to confirm it’s accurate.
Are these blondies suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! You can easily make this Banana Bread Blondies recipe vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Also, be sure to use vegan butter instead of regular unsalted butter. This way, everyone can enjoy these luscious treats!
Irresistible Banana Bread Blondies with Rich Brown Butter Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a microwave or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Gently mix the mashed bananas into the butter mixture until just combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until incorporated.
- Fold in optional add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Melt additional butter in a saucepan and cook until golden brown.
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, brown butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled blondies and spread evenly.
- Allow the glaze to set briefly before cutting into squares.