Introduction
There’s something undeniably cozy about baking, especially when it involves banana bread. But let’s take it up a notch with these wonderfully moist Banana Bread Blondies! With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the delightful chewiness of brown sugar, these blondies are a perfect treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re serving them fresh from the oven or packing them in lunchboxes, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the sweet details of this recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 blondies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
- Add the melted butter to the banana mixture and mix thoroughly until it’s fully incorporated.
- Crack in the eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and inviting.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour to ensure an even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—some lumps are perfectly fine!
- If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts for that extra delightful crunch.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly for an even bake.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
- Once baked, allow the blondies to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure they set properly!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. These spices pair beautifully with the bananas. Additionally, if you prefer a more decadent treat, mixing in shredded coconut or white chocolate chips can give your blondies a delightful twist!
Cooking Techniques
Having ripe bananas on hand is key—look for bananas that are speckled with brown spots, as they’re naturally sweeter and mash beautifully. When mixing your batter, remember that less is more; overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of the light, moist texture we’re after. Also, letting them cool completely allows the flavors to meld, making each bite even more delicious!
FAQ
Can I freeze these blondies?
Absolutely! Once cooled, cut them into squares and freeze in an airtight container. They’ll last up to three months, perfect for a quick treat later on.
What can I substitute for bananas?
If you’re looking for a different fruit flavor, try using applesauce, though the texture will vary slightly. Just remember that bananas contribute to the moisture and richness of these bars.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Blondies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a delightful, comforting hug in dessert form. With their soft, dense cake and the option of gooey chocolate chips or crunchy nuts, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the aromas and flavors that fill your kitchen. Happy baking!