Name: Banana Bread Blondies: The Best Easy Treat for Your Sweet Tooth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup mashed banana (from about 1 1/2 large, very ripe bananas); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (or refined coconut oil); 1 large egg yolk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract); 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup light brown sugar (or dark brown sugar, packed); 3/4 teaspoon table salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour); 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, toasted; optional); 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or mini chocolate chips); to taste flaky sea salt (for sprinkling; optional)

Introduction to Banana Bread Blondies

Why Banana Bread Blondies Are a Game Changer

If you're a fan of the moist, comforting goodness of banana bread, then get ready to meet your new favorite treat: banana bread blondies. These delightful squares pack all the banana flavor you love into a portable, easy-to-slice dessert that’s perfect for sharing (or not!).

Imagine biting into a rich, chewy blondie with the sweetness of ripe bananas perfectly complemented by the buttery flavor and hints of vanilla. It’s a pure treat for the senses! You don’t need to worry about spending hours in the kitchen; these blondies come together quickly, making them ideal for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings.

Not only are they delicious, but they're also a great way to use those overripe bananas languishing on your countertop. Instead of whipping up the usual banana bread, dare to switch things up and impress your friends with these banana bread blondies. You might find that these perfectly chewy, moist squares vanish in no time—perfect for a party or as a lunchbox surprise.

So, are you ready to stir up some excitement in your dessert game? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Banana Bread Blondies

Creating the perfect banana bread blondies begins with gathering high-quality ingredients that harmonize together for a delightful treat. Here's what you'll need:

Mashed Banana: ¾ cup (170g) from about 1 ½ large, very ripe bananas brings the natural sweetness and moisture needed for your blondies.
Sugars: Combine ⅔ cup (134g) granulated sugar with ¼ cup (54g) packed light or dark brown sugar for a delicious depth of flavor.
Butter or Oil: Opt for 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter or refined coconut oil to create that desirable rich texture.
Egg Yolk: One large egg yolk adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons of King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract elevates the flavor profile significantly.
Salt & Baking Powder: ¾ teaspoon table salt and ½ teaspoon baking powder ensure your blondies rise perfectly.
Flour: 1 ¼ cups (150g) of King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour forms the structure.
Nuts & Chocolate: ¼ cup (28g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) and ¼ cup (43g) of semisweet chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips are perfect for a decadent touch.
Flaky Sea Salt: Optional for that sophisticated finish.

With these ingredients at the ready, you're just a few steps away from indulging in the delightful richness of your homemade banana bread blondies!

Preparing Banana Bread Blondies

Banana bread blondies are a delicious twist on the classic banana bread we all love! Perfect for when you have ripe bananas sitting on your counter, these chewy, flavorful treats are simple to make and a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, let’s dive into the preparation steps, making this delightful recipe both enjoyable and easy to follow.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before starting, make sure you have all your ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mashed banana: About ¾ cup, which comes from approximately 1.5 large, very ripe bananas.
Sugars: You’ll need granulated sugar and brown sugar for that sweet depth.
Butter or coconut oil: Unsalted butter works beautifully, but coconut oil will also create a lovely texture.
Egg yolk: Just one will do!
Vanilla extract: For a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with banana bread.
Baking essentials: Salt and baking powder help your blondies rise.
Flour: All-purpose flour is best for a soft and chewy consistency.
Optional add-ins: Chopped nuts and chocolate chips can take these blondies to the next level.

Mash and Cook the Banana Mixture

Start by mashing your bananas with the sugars in a large saucepan. Use a sturdy fork or a potato masher for this step—don’t be afraid to get a little down and dirty! Cook the mixture over medium heat until it becomes shiny and syrupy, stirring frequently. This should take about 4 to 8 minutes. The caramelization adds a fantastic flavor, making your banana bread blondies irresistible! You'll know it's ready when the mixture is thick enough that a line drawn through it with a spatula stays clear for about a second.

Combine with Wet Ingredients

Once your banana mixture has cooled slightly (about 5 minutes, so you don’t cook the egg yolk), it’s time to stir in the butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. This step is crucial as it creates a creamy, emulsified batter, setting the foundation for your blondies’ dense yet soft texture.

Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Next, whisk in the table salt and baking powder. Then, gently fold in the flour with a flexible spatula until just a few dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix! Add in your optional chopped walnuts or pecans and chocolate chips, stirring until evenly distributed.

Prepare the Pan and Transfer the Batter

Finally, preheat your oven to 350°F, and prepare an 8-inch square pan by lightly greasing it and lining it with parchment paper. This makes removing your blondies a cinch once they’re baked! Spread the batter evenly in the pan using a lightly greased spatula or damp hands. Top it off with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired for that extra gourmet touch.

Now you’re ready to bake and enjoy your banana bread blondies! They’ll be a delightful addition to any dessert table or a perfect snack to enjoy throughout the week. Happy baking!

Variations on Banana Bread Blondies

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Blondies

If you love the classic banana bread blondies, why not take it over the top? Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and add delightful pockets of melted chocolate. Simply stir in ¼ cup of semisweet or mini chocolate chips to your batter just before transferring it to the pan. This sweet twist will bring a smile to any chocolate lover’s face!

Nutty Banana Bread Blondies

For those who appreciate a little crunch, consider nutty banana bread blondies. Incorporate ¼ cup of toasted walnuts or pecans to give these bars an irresistible texture and nuttiness. This simple variation not only adds flavor but also provides a little boost of protein. Pair them with some coffee for a cozy snack or dessert!

Feel free to explore these variations, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Cooking Tips for Banana Bread Blondies

Making banana bread blondies can be a delightful baking project! Here are a few tips to guarantee your treats turn out perfectly every time:

Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas bring out the natural sweetness and contribute to a moist texture.
Melt the Butter: For a smoother batter, melt the butter before mixing it in. This helps combine all ingredients evenly.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour, stir until just combined. This keeps your blondies tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
Add Mix-Ins: Feel free to experiment with your favorite add-ins like mini chocolate chips or nut varieties. Check this article for more ideas!

By keeping these tips in mind, your banana bread blondies will be irresistibly delicious!

Serving Suggestions for Banana Bread Blondies

Banana bread blondies are incredibly versatile and can be served in delightful ways! Here are a few ideas to enhance your enjoyment:

With a Side of Ice Cream: Serve warm banana bread blondies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The combination of warm and cold is simply irresistible!
Drizzled with Nut Butter: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds a delicious twist and pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the blondies.
Perfect as a Snack: Pack them for a mid-afternoon snack or as an after-gym treat. They offer just the right amount of energy and indulgence.

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch. For more tips and ideas, check out this guide on perfect dessert pairings.

Time Breakdown for Banana Bread Blondies

Preparation Time

Get your kitchen prepped and ready in about 15 minutes! This includes mashing those ripe bananas, measuring out your ingredients, and getting everything set up for mixing.

Baking Time

While the banana bread blondies are in the oven, you'll want to set aside 25 minutes for baking. Just enough time to sip on a cozy drink or catch up on your favorite show!

Total Time

In just under an hour (around 40 minutes total), you can have delicious banana bread blondies cooling on your counter, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all on your own!

For a great selection of kitchenware, check out King Arthur Baking for tools like their high-quality baking pans. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Banana Bread Blondies

Calories

These delightful banana bread blondies pack approximately 160 calories per serving, making them a satisfying treat without the guilt. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a sweet finale to your meal.

Protein

Each blondie contains about 2 grams of protein. While not a high-protein snack, pairing them with a source of protein can enhance your overall nutritional intake and keep you feeling fuller longer.

Sugars

With 12 grams of sugars in every serving, these blondies strike a balance between sweetness and natural flavors from the ripe bananas. Enjoying these treats in moderation can make for a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire!

For more on the nutritional benefits of bananas and how they can positively impact your diet, check out Healthline. These banana bread blondies are not just tasty—they offer nutrition too!

FAQs about Banana Bread Blondies

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen bananas work great in banana bread blondies. Just thaw them beforehand so they’re easy to mash. Tip: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your banana bread blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for about a week. You can also freeze blondies for up to three months—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

What are some alternatives to chocolate chips?

If you want to switch things up, consider using butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or even dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. For a nutty twist, try adding chopped almonds or pecans along with the banana bread blondies mix. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Need more tips? Check out King Arthur Baking for fantastic resources and baking ideas!

Conclusion on Banana Bread Blondies

In summary, banana bread blondies bring a delightful twist to traditional banana bread. They’re rich, chewy, and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends, these blondies are sure to elevate your snack game. Give them a try and taste the magic!