Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delicious treat with these homemade banana blondies! These delightful squares combine the rich flavor of brown butter, the sweetness of brown sugar, and the perfect hint of banana. Topped with a luscious brown sugar frosting, these blondies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert lineup. Whether for a gathering or a cozy night in, these blondies will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Blondies:
– ½ cup brown butter
– 1½ cups brown sugar
– 1 egg
– ¼ cup sour cream
– ¾ cup mashed bananas
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Frosting:
– ½ cup butter
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 cup powdered sugar
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20-24 minutes
Total Time
35-39 minutes
Yield
About 16 blondie squares
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and transfer to a large heat-safe bowl.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar and Egg
Add the brown sugar to the browned butter and stir until well combined. Mix in the egg until smooth, then incorporate the sour cream.
Step 4: Add Bananas and Vanilla
Mash the bananas in a separate bowl and add them to the butter mixture along with the vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the flour is incorporated.
Step 6: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The center may appear slightly underdone; it will continue to set as it cools.
Step 7: Cool the Blondies
Remove from the oven and allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
While the blondies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is just about to boil. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Step 9: Whisk in Powdered Sugar
Whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth.
Step 10: Frost the Blondies
Once the blondies have cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Allow the frosting to set before cutting into squares.
Notes
Storage
Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Substitutions
You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or applesauce for a dairy-free version.
For Extra Flavor
Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices (like cinnamon or nutmeg) for additional flavor variations.
Cook techniques
Browning Butter
To brown butter, melt it over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir frequently until it reaches a golden brown color and smells nutty. This process enhances the flavor of your baked goods.
Mashing Bananas
To mash bananas, peel and place them in a bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to crush them until smooth with a few small lumps remaining. This adds moisture and flavor to the blondies.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
When combining wet ingredients, ensure that each new addition is fully mixed before adding the next. This helps create a uniform batter and prevents clumps.
Combining Dry Ingredients
Whisk together all dry ingredients in a separate bowl before incorporating them into the wet mixture. This ensures even distribution of the flour and salt, improving the texture of the blondies.
Baking
Bake the blondies until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This indicates they are done but still slightly underbaked in the center, which will firm up as they cool.
Cooling
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan. This helps them set properly and makes it easier to cut them into squares without crumbling.
Making Frosting
For the frosting, melt butter and mix with brown sugar and heavy cream until it just begins to boil. Allow it to cool slightly before whisking in powdered sugar to achieve a smooth consistency.
Spreading Frosting
Ensure the blondies are completely cool before spreading the frosting on top. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
FAQ
Can I substitute the mashed bananas in the blondies?
Yes, you can use applesauce or another fruit puree as a substitute for mashed bananas, although it may slightly change the flavor and texture.
How can I store the banana blondies?
Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
You can make the frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and mix before spreading on cooled blondies.
What can I add to the blondies for extra flavor?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the banana blondies?
Yes, you can freeze the blondies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Conclusion
The banana blondies provide a delightful twist on traditional blondies, combining the rich flavor of brown butter and brown sugar with the natural sweetness of mashed bananas. Topped with a creamy brown sugar frosting, these treats are sure to please any dessert lover. Their moist texture and unique flavor make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Blondies
Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a delicious combination of flavors that elevates the classic blondie.
Nutty Delight Blondies
Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the batter, adding a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture.
Coconut Blondies
Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist, enhancing the flavor profile while giving the blondies extra chewiness.
Brownie Swirl Blondies
Create a marbled effect by swirling in brownie batter just before baking, resulting in a decadent hybrid treat.
Fruit-Filled Blondies
Fold in chopped fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries, for added sweetness and color, making the blondies even more appealing.
Spiced Blondies
Add warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to give a cozy flavor that pairs well with the bananas and brown sugar.
Caramel Drizzle Blondies
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cooled frosted blondies for an indulgent finish that takes them to the next level.
