Introduction

These Banana Bread Blondies offer a delightful twist on classic banana bread with a rich, buttery flavor and a sweet frosting on top. Moist and flavorful, they are perfect for a snack or dessert that feels both cozy and indulgent.

A square piece of cake with two layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is thick, light brown, and crumbly with a soft texture. The top layer is a smooth, pale cream color, slightly glossy, appearing as a thin frosting spread evenly across the cake. One corner of the cake has a bite taken out, showing the contrast between the two layers clearly, and some crumbs are scattered near the plate's edge. In the background, another piece of the same cake is slightly out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg
1½ – 2 teaspoons cinnamon (to taste)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup mashed banana (about one medium-large banana)
¼ cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
6 tablespoons light brown sugar (for frosting)
2 tablespoons milk
Dash of salt (for frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the blondies out later. Spray the foil with cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, light brown sugar, and salt. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, mixing well until fully incorporated. Then fold in the mashed banana.
Step 3: Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly on top.
Step 4: Bake the blondies for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove the pan from the oven and let the blondies cool to room temperature.
Step 5: To make the frosting, melt the ¼ cup butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the butter turns a rich amber color—be careful not to burn it.
Step 6: Add the brown sugar, milk, and a dash of salt to the browned butter. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 7: Whisk in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled blondies. Allow it to set before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.
Adjust the cinnamon amount to your preference or substitute with a pinch of nutmeg for a different warmth.
If you prefer a thinner frosting, add a splash more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
Try adding chocolate chips to the batter for a sweeter variation.

Storage

Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving to restore their soft texture.

How to Serve

A thick square slice of banana cake sits on a white plate with a floral pattern, showing a dense, moist texture speckled with small bits inside. On top of the cake, there are several banana slices glazed with shiny caramel sauce that drips down the sides. A round scoop of white whipped cream rests on the bananas, with more caramel sauce slowly running down from the top. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, with a fork partially visible on the side. In the background, there is a blurred yellow banana and a light blue cup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing to avoid a runny batter.

Is it okay to skip the frosting?

Absolutely! The blondies are delicious on their own and the frosting adds extra sweetness. You can also dust them with powdered sugar as a lighter alternative.