There’s something incredibly comforting about the scent of ripe bananas filling your kitchen. You know the kind—the sweet aroma that wafts through the air when you’re about to make something truly delicious. That’s precisely what led me to whip up these Chewy Banana Blondies, a delightful treat that makes perfect use of those overripe bananas you might have sitting on your counter.

Not only are these blondies surprisingly simple to prepare, but their customizable nature means you can make them uniquely yours with just a few tweaks. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a potluck or need a quick and satisfying dessert for family movie night, these blondies are sure to become a favorite. With their rich flavor and the option to add nuts, chocolate, or whatever your heart desires, you’ll find they’re practically begging for your personal touch! So, grab those bananas and let’s get baking!

Why are Banana Blondies the ultimate treat?

Simplicity, these Banana Blondies require just a few pantry staples and minimal preparation time.
Customizable, you can switch up flavors by adding your choice of mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
Healthy twist, feel free to reduce sugar or swap in gluten-free flour without compromising taste.
Crowd-pleaser, with their chewy, gooey texture, they’re perfect for gatherings or as a cozy family dessert.
Versatile enough for breakfast or a snack, these blondies can be enjoyed any time of day!
For more tasty ideas, don’t forget to check out my other healthy desserts that are sure to delight!

Discover the Banana Blondies Ingredients

For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; you can reduce and replace part with applesauce for a healthier version.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and contributes to the chewy texture; no direct substitutions recommended.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; can be replaced with almond extract for a delightful twist.
• Ripe Bananas – The main flavor base; choose very ripe bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness, using 2 for milder and 3 for a stronger banana taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; substitute a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda – Provide leavening for that light, fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon – Optional; adds warmth and spice that complements bananas—omit if desired.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; don’t skip it for the best taste!

Optional Mix-Ins
• Chocolate Chips – For bursts of rich chocolate flavor; a classic combo with bananas.
• Nuts – Walnuts or pecans add crunch and depth; feel free to experiment!
• Dried Fruit – Raisins or cranberries for a chewy contrast; they bring a delightful tanginess.

These ingredients come together to create irresistibly chewy Banana Blondies, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings or impressing at any gathering!

How to Make Banana Blondies

Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it to prevent sticking.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and brown sugar, blending them together until smooth. Next, whisk in the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed ripe bananas until fully integrated.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the dry components throughout the batter.
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can affect the chewiness of your blondies.
Add Mix-Ins: Stir in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried fruit, giving your blondies an extra flavorful twist.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool and Slice: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Once slightly cooled, slice them into squares and enjoy your delicious creation!

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for a delightful finishing touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Banana Blondies

Room Temperature: Store Banana Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: To preserve them even longer, freeze the blondies individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through, enhancing that delightful banana flavor!

Banana Blondies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Banana Blondies and make them your own with fun twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously chewy, gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Reduced Sugar: Substitute half of the brown sugar with applesauce to reduce sugar and maintain moisture—an excellent choice for health-conscious bakers.
Nutty Delight: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft blondies perfectly.
Chocolate Lover: Swap regular chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate chunks for a decadent treat that indulges your sweet tooth!
Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut for a lovely chewy texture and a hint of island flair, adding a delightful contrast to the banana flavor.
Spiced Version: Stir in a dash of nutmeg or a hint of cayenne pepper for a unique flavor enhancement; the warmth will surprise and delight!
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet-tart contrast that adds another layer to your blondies’ mouthfeel.
Frosted Finish: After cooling, drizzle with a simple glaze of powdered sugar mixed with milk for a touch of sweetness that makes these blondies so special.

With these variations, your Banana Blondies can be a delightful adventure every time you bake!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Banana Blondies are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately, then refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to bring the ingredients to room temperature before mixing them together. If you want even more convenience, you can bake the blondies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual pieces for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw and enjoy, knowing they’ll be just as delicious as when they were freshly baked!

Expert Tips for the Best Banana Blondies

Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe with plenty of brown spots for optimal sweetness and flavor. Avoid any that are under-ripe.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture; overmixing can lead to tough blondies instead of that delightful chewy texture.
Check Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the blondies while they bake. They’re done when the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips but avoid using too many heavy mix-ins to maintain the right texture in your banana blondies.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to retain their chewy goodness.

What to Serve with Banana Blondies?

Delight in the sweetness of banana goodness as you create a warm and inviting meal!

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast of vanilla ice cream alongside warm blondies creates a delightful experience with every bite.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that beautifully balances the rich flavors of the blondies.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavor of a freshly brewed cup enhances the sweetness of your dessert, making for a perfect afternoon treat or after-dinner indulgence.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a lovely touch of richness that complements the chewy texture of the blondies.
Nut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds a delicious nuttiness and protein boost—perfect for savoring as a snack.
Chocolate Sauce: A warm chocolate drizzle can transform these and create a decadent dessert that chocolate lovers will adore.
Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Serve your blondies with a cold glass of milk (or its plant-based equivalent) to enjoy this comforting combination that’s loved by all ages!

Banana Blondies Recipe FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for Banana Blondies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and sweetness, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. They should be soft and mushy, as this indicates maximum sugar content. I often find that bananas left to brown on the counter for a few days work perfectly!

What’s the best way to store leftover Banana Blondies?
Great question! To keep your Banana Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember, they taste best when brought back to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Banana Blondies?
Yes! To freeze your delicious Banana Blondies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they’re well-sealed. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm.

What can I do if my Banana Blondies turn out too dry?
If your Banana Blondies come out too dry, the likely culprit is overbaking or not enough moisture from the bananas. Be sure to check them at the 25-minute mark and remove them when the edges are golden and a toothpick shows moist crumbs. Adding a bit more ripe banana or even a splash of milk can also help retain moisture in future bakes!

Are Banana Blondies safe for pets?
It’s best to keep Banana Blondies away from pets. While bananas are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, the sugar and potential chocolate or nut mix-ins can be harmful. If you’re looking for a pet-safe treat, consider pureed bananas or dog-friendly banana dog biscuits instead.

Can I substitute ingredients in Banana Blondies?
Certainly! For a healthier twist, you can reduce the sugar and replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If you need a gluten-free option, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Experimentation can lead to delightful results, so feel free to make it your own!