If you love the cozy flavors of banana bread but crave a fudgier, more indulgent twist, this Banana Bread Blondies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Combining the best of both worlds, these blondies are soft, moist, and bursting with ripe banana sweetness, all wrapped up in a chewy, dense texture that beats any traditional slice. Whether you want a quick breakfast treat, a snack to perk up your afternoon, or a comforting dessert, these blondies deliver with heartwarming flavor and simple, wholesome ingredients that make baking a joy rather than a chore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is like inviting a cast of kitchen heroes that work together perfectly. Each one plays a vital role, from adding moisture and sweetness to providing structure and that irresistible golden color.
- 2-3 medium very ripe bananas: The star ingredient that lends natural sweetness and creamy moisture without needing extra sugar.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds caramel undertones and enhances the banana’s rich flavor while keeping the blondies tender.
- 1/2 cup melted salted butter: Provides a luscious texture and depth of flavor that makes these blondies utterly satisfying.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brightens the overall flavor with a subtle aromatic hint that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Binds the batter together, giving these blondies structure without making them cakey.
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds pockets of melty, gooey chocolate throughout the blondies; feel free to swap for nuts for an added crunch.
- 1 and 1/4 cups whole wheat flour: Keeps things wholesome with a nutty undertone and a bit more texture than plain white flour.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Gives just enough lift to balance the dense, moist batter.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming flat.
How to Make Banana Bread Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees to get everything ready. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until smooth and combined — this base is where the magic begins. Next, stir in the mashed ripe bananas, egg, and vanilla extract, blending everything until the mixture is silky and inviting.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Using a sifter, add the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. If you don’t have a sifter, mixing them separately first works just as well. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a wooden spoon, making sure to combine everything without overmixing. This keeps the blondies tender and prevents them from turning tough.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips
Once your batter is well combined, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. They’ll melt into pockets of gooey deliciousness when baked, making each bite a little adventure. Feel free to sprinkle some extra chips on top of the batter once it’s in the pan for that eye-catching finishing touch.
Step 4: Bake the Blondies
Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish and pour in the batter, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 34 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the blondies cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 5 minutes before slicing to keep them from crumbling.
How to Serve Banana Bread Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
These banana bread blondies shine as they are, but you can take them to the next level with simple garnishes. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty touch, or try a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a few banana slices on top can add texture and make your plate look even more tempting.
Side Dishes
Serve these blondies alongside a bowl of creamy yogurt or fresh berries for a balanced breakfast or snack. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns them into an irresistible dessert, perfect for cozy nights or entertaining friends. Hot coffee or chai tea also pairs beautifully, complementing the warm banana and buttery flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress, try cutting the blondies into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a decorative platter with fresh mint leaves. Stack some bars as a layered cake alternative for a fun twist at brunch or parties. You can even sandwich two blondies together with peanut butter or cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat that’s sure to wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana bread blondies stay moist and flavorful when stored properly. Place any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll keep fresh for up to three days. This makes them perfect for baking ahead when you want a ready-made snack or quick breakfast option.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Banana Bread Blondies Recipe later, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a resealable bag or container. Frozen blondies will stay delicious for 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Reheating
To bring your banana bread blondies back to life, pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm them in a low oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This restores their soft texture and reactivates that lovely chocolate melty goodness as if they were just pulled from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour will make the blondies slightly lighter in texture, but whole wheat adds a wonderful nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the banana flavor.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
The riper, the better. Look for bananas that are heavily spotted or even browned on the skin because they are sweeter and mash easily, giving the blondies their best flavor and moisture.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips with nuts?
Yes, swapping chocolate chips for chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans adds a lovely crunch and a different flavor profile. You can even do a mix of both for variety!
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free banana bread blondies, try substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or similar to help with texture.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The blondies will be set and lightly golden on top when ready.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting about the fusion of banana bread and blondie goodness, and this Banana Bread Blondies Recipe captures it perfectly. It’s easy to make, utterly delicious, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you with each chewy, chocolate-studded bite.
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Banana Bread Blondies Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-34 minutes
- Total Time: 35-39 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Bread Blondies combine the moist, sweet flavor of ripe bananas with the rich taste of chocolate chips, baked into soft, chewy bars. Made with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients, this easy recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Quick to prepare and bake, these blondies offer a wholesome twist on traditional banana bread with a delightful chocolatey finish.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2–3 medium very ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup melted salted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Dry Ingredients
- 1 and 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional
- Chopped nuts instead of chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Mix Wet Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the melted salted butter and light brown sugar until smooth and combined. Add the mashed ripe bananas, egg, and vanilla extract, stirring until all wet ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients: Using a sifter, add the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt over the wet mixture. If you don’t have a sifter, mix the dry ingredients separately then add them in. Gently stir with a wooden spoon to combine the batter, being careful not to overmix to avoid toughness.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips gently into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overworking the batter.
- Prepare Baking Dish and Bake: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Pour the batter into the dish and smooth the surface gently. Optionally, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-34 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then carefully remove and cut into 9 bars. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients have been added to keep the blondies tender.
- For a nutty flavor, substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts.
- If your bananas are not very ripe, the blondies may not be as sweet or moist.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
