Introduction
Nothing warms the heart quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread blondies wafting through your kitchen! These delightful treats are a combination of rich, moist banana bread and the sweet, buttery goodness of blondies. With a hint of vanilla and the optional, indulgent addition of chocolate chips, they make for the perfect afternoon snack or a cozy dessert after dinner. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up—let’s dive into the comforting world of banana bread blondies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 large bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 16 blondies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure your blondies come out easily.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the packed brown sugar to the banana mixture, mixing well until it’s fully incorporated.
- Crack in the large egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Stir everything together until you have a smooth batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the salt, baking powder, and flour. Ensure there are no lumps in your dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want our blondies to remain tender!
- If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, fold in the chocolate chips for a delightful burst of sweetness.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown top!
- Let your blondies cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will make cutting them easier!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dry ingredients. If you prefer a nutty crunch, chopped walnuts or pecans are a wonderful addition too. These blondies store well in an airtight container for a few days—if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Be mindful when mashing your bananas; you want them smooth for the best texture. If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can quickly ripen them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until the skins are darkened. This will bring out their natural sweetness, making your blondies even more delicious.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing them.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute with granulated sugar, but your blondies may have a slightly different flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Conclusion
These moist banana bread blondies are sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors, making them the perfect treat to share with family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these golden, sweet delights!