Warm, soft, and nutty, these blondies are a delightful twist on traditional banana bread. They’re rich, sweet, and oh-so-easy to whip up. Perfect for an after-school treat or a cozy dessert, these blondies will quickly become a family favorite. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked goodies filling your home!
Why You Will Love This Treat
This recipe is a winner for busy families. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, anyone can make these delicious blondies. They’re also super versatile, allowing for a variety of nut options. Ideal for sharing, enjoying with coffee, or just as a sweet snack on the go. Plus, the combination of bananas and nuts gives it a lovely texture and flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.
How to Make These Blondies
Making these blondies is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll start by mixing the wet ingredients, followed by adding the dry ones. It’s all about combining them without overdoing it. Then, just fold in the nuts, pour the batter into your baking pan, and let the oven do the work. In no time, you’ll have a warm, golden treat ready to enjoy.
What You Need
Ingredients for Nutty Banana Bread Blondies
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
Step-by-Step
Cooking Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas and melted butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
How to Serve
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These blondies are delightful on their own, but you can amp them up too! Try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a warm, melty treat. Drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce for extra sweetness. They also make great snacks for lunchboxes or family gatherings, ensuring both kids and adults will enjoy them.
How to Store
Keep Leftovers Fresh
To store your blondies, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Recipe Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the battery; stir until just combined for tender blondies.
- Feel free to adjust the type or amount of nuts based on your preference.
- For a chocolatey twist, add chocolate chips to the batter.
- Always let your blondies cool before cutting to achieve clean edges.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap out chopped nuts for chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
- Replace half the flour with oats for a chewier texture.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy spice element.
FAQs
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready, or bake them and keep them in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the blondies?
Yes! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
How do I reheat these if they’re cold?
You can reheat them in the microwave in 10-second intervals until warm. Alternatively, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes.
What can I substitute for nuts?
If nuts aren’t your thing, you can leave them out altogether or replace them with raisins or dried fruit. You could also use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for some crunch.
What are common mistakes to avoid?
Be careful not to overmix your batter, as this can make your blondies dense. Also, make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out with moist crumbs, they’re perfect!
Nutty Banana Bread Blondies
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour For a chewier texture, consider replacing half the flour with oats.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Nuts
- 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans) Feel free to adjust the type or amount of nuts based on your preference.
Instructions
Preparation & Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas and melted butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
