Banana Bread Blondies Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Banana Bars with Walnuts

This banana bars recipe is perfect for a sweet treat thats easy to make and delicious. Soft, chewy, and packed with flavors, these bars are great for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup mashed banana
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring theres enough overhang on all sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add the mashed banana, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir everything together until its thoroughly mixed.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. Add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out into an even layer.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts	Per Serving
Calories	297
Total Fat	16g (20% DV)
Saturated Fat	7g (36% DV)
Cholesterol	68mg (23% DV)
Sodium	166mg (7% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	36g (13% DV)
Dietary Fiber	2g (6% DV)
Total Sugars	19g
Protein	4g (8% DV)
Vitamin C	2mg (3% DV)
Calcium	31mg (2% DV)
Iron	1mg (7% DV)
Potassium	166mg (4% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Banana Bread Blondies

Banana bread blondies are a delightful twist on the classic banana bread that has been a staple in American kitchens since the 1930s. Originally, banana bread emerged as a way to use overripe bananas, preventing food waste during the Great Depression. The blondie variation evolved later as bakers experimented with bar-style desserts, combining the soft, moist texture of banana bread with the rich, chewy consistency of blondies. This innovation allowed banana bread flavors to be enjoyed in a more convenient, handheld form.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While banana bread blondies are predominantly American, regional adaptations exist. In the Southern United States, they may include pecans or a hint of bourbon for added depth. In the Northeast, you might find them spiced with extra cinnamon and nutmeg, reflecting the regions love for warmly spiced desserts. West Coast bakers often incorporate chocolate chips or coconut for a more indulgent version. These regional touches highlight local tastes while keeping the fundamental banana-forward flavor intact.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Desserts

Banana bread blondies differ from traditional banana bread primarily in texture and presentation. Unlike loaf-style banana bread, blondies are baked in a shallow pan, resulting in a denser, chewier bar with a slightly crisp edge. Compared to standard blondies made with brown sugar and butter, banana bread blondies carry a natural sweetness and moisture from ripe bananas, which also impart a subtle fruity aroma. This makes them uniquely soft while maintaining the satisfying chewiness expected from a blondie.

Typical Serving Occasions

These blondies are versatile and served in many contexts. They are popular at brunches, family gatherings, and school bake sales. Coffee shops often feature them as grab-and-go treats, and they also work well as a dessert accompaniment to ice cream or whipped cream. Their bar form makes them ideal for casual snacking, as they are easy to portion and transport without losing their moist texture.

Interesting Facts

• Banana bread blondies retain a significant amount of potassium from the bananas, making them a slightly healthier dessert option compared to typical sugary bars.
• Some bakers recommend using overripe bananas with brown spots, as they yield the richest flavor and natural sweetness.
• The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg in banana blondies mirrors traditional spiced banana bread recipes, giving a nostalgic aroma with every bite.
• Unlike banana muffins or loaf bread, these blondies can be customized with nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit to suit personal preferences.
• Banana bread blondies have gained popularity on social media for their photogenic golden-brown top and gooey interior, often featured in dessert photography trends.

FAQ about Banana Bread Blondies Recipe

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