Name: Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ripe bananas, mashed (or 3 for stronger banana flavor); 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional); ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 27 reviews

Meet the ultimate crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake again and again: Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love. Imagine chewy, golden bars bursting with ripe banana flavor, cozy notes of brown sugar and vanilla, and a perfectly tender crumb. Whether you have a handful of ripe bananas or need a quick, satisfying treat, these banana blondies tick all the boxes for easy prep, irresistible taste, and endless customizing possibilities. This is a dessert you’ll turn to whenever you want something comforting and just a little bit different from the classic banana bread.

Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love is probably already in your pantry—each ingredient is handpicked to deliver rich flavor, chewy texture, and gorgeous golden color. Every item here truly matters, from the deep notes of brown sugar to the punch of mashed banana and the boost from a splash of vanilla.

Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture for beautifully soft blondies—make sure it’s melted for an even, silky batter.
Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Provides deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the blondies extra chewy.
Large egg (1): Binds everything together, giving the blondies structure and just the right amount of lift.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the banana and sugar flavors with a warm, comforting aroma.
Ripe bananas (2, mashed—or 3 for extra banana intensity): The true star—use bananas with brown spots for the deepest flavor and natural sweetness.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): The backbone of the blondies, giving them a soft and chewy bite.
Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Offers just enough lift for tender, cake-like bars.
Baking soda (¼ teaspoon): Reacts with the banana and brown sugar to help with browning and rise.
Cinnamon (½ teaspoon, optional): For a cozy, spiced twist that pairs so well with bananas.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and brightens every bite.
Optional mix-ins (½ cup walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips): Add for texture, crunch, or a chocolatey surprise—go classic or get creative!

How to Make Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it—this keeps the blondies from sticking and makes cleanup a dream. A properly lined pan also gives those gorgeous clean edges when it’s time to slice.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar, whisking until smooth and glossy. This is where the magic of chewy, caramelly blondies begins. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, whisking again to bring out those classic, cozy notes, then fold in the mashed bananas for that trademark banana flavor and extra moisture.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon if you want that warm pop, and the salt. This makes sure everything blends evenly into the batter, with no sneaky clumps of baking soda or cinnamon lurking around.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Stir just until combined—don’t overmix! If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in a generous handful of walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for an irresistible twist on Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Try not to overbake—these blondies are best slightly underdone for that signature chewiness.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Patience, friend! Let the blondies cool for 15 to 20 minutes right in the pan. This helps them firm up for perfect slicing. Lift them out by the parchment or slice directly in the pan into tidy squares. Now your Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love are ready to devour!

How to Serve Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love

Garnishes

You can never go wrong with a glossy drizzle of melted chocolate, creamy white icing, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar on top. For an extra-special touch, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts or a dusting of cinnamon-sugar over the cooled blondies, letting every bite burst with a different pop of flavor or crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair your Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a little dollop of whipped cream, or a smoothie on the side. These bars play well with creamy or fruity sides—think fresh berries or a scoop of frozen yogurt for a lighter treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting them into mini-bite squares for a dessert board, stacking with layers of caramel sauce, or packaging them in parchment for delicious lunchbox or picnic treats. Plating them with edible flowers or colorful fruit can make these banana blondies the star of any dessert table—get creative and show off your personal flair!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—they’ll stay deliciously chewy and moist. If you prefer a firmer texture, pop them in the refrigerator and enjoy all week long.

Freezing

Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares in plastic and store in a zip-top bag or airtight box. They’ll keep for up to three months—perfect for make-ahead snacks, lunchboxes, or unexpected company.

Reheating

If you like your blondies warm and extra gooey, microwave a square for 10-15 seconds or pop a few slices in a low oven for a couple of minutes. Top with ice cream or caramel for a truly decadent treat you won’t forget.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Their intense sweetness actually works wonderfully in Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love.

How do I make these blondies gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a quality gluten-free blend—look for one with xanthan gum for best texture. The rest of the recipe remains the same for a scrumptious gluten-free version.

What’s the best way to reduce sugar in this recipe?

You can replace part of the brown sugar with unsweetened applesauce for a naturally sweet, lighter option that keeps your blondies moist and flavorful.

Are there vegan adaptations for this recipe?

Yes! Use melted coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter, and substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg.” The result is still deliciously chewy Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love.

Can I make these in advance for a party?

Definitely—Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love are just as good a day or two after baking, and you can even freeze them ahead and thaw before serving for last-minute gatherings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with banana desserts all over again, you have to try Banana Blondies: 7 Simple Banana Dessert Recipes to Love. These bars are the perfect blend of easy and exciting, classic and creative. Give them a whirl, share with someone you love, and let your kitchen fill with that swoon-worthy banana aroma—these blondies are destined to be your new favorite treat!