Introduction
If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of brown butter and ripe bananas, look no further than this scrumptious blondie recipe. These blondies are moist, chewy, and topped with a creamy frosting that complements their sweetness perfectly. Ideal for gatherings or a sweet snack, they are sure to please everyone who tries them.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour (including cooling)
Yield: 12-16 blondie squares
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter and brown sugar. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until smooth.
5. Stir in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the blondies cool completely in the pan.
9. While the blondies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
10. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
11. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
12. Once the blondies are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
13. Cut into squares and serve.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter and brown sugar. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until smooth.
Step 5: Incorporate Bananas
Stir in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the blondies cool completely in the pan.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
While the blondies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Step 10: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
Step 11: Finish the Frosting
Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 12: Frost the Blondies
Once the blondies are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Step 13: Serve
Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Tip for Browning Butter
Watch the butter closely while melting as it can quickly go from browned to burnt.
Banana Consistency
Make sure the bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
Storing Blondies
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Variations
Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Cook techniques
Brown Butter Technique
Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. This technique adds a rich flavor to your baking.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine browned butter with light brown sugar, ensuring that the mixture is well blended. Adding eggs and vanilla extract will create a smooth consistency, which is crucial for a tender texture.
Incorporating Bananas
After mixing the wet ingredients, stir in mashed ripe bananas. This not only adds moisture but also contributes natural sweetness to the blondies.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Baking Technique
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly before baking at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Preparing Frosting
Beat softened unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually mix in powdered sugar. Adding heavy cream and vanilla extract will give the frosting a light and fluffy texture, perfect for spreading.
Frosting Application
Once the blondies are completely cooled, evenly spread the prepared frosting on top. This final step adds richness and a sweet finish to the blondies.
FAQ
Can I substitute the brown sugar with white sugar?
While you can substitute brown sugar with white sugar, it may alter the flavor and moisture content. Brown sugar provides a deeper flavor and retains more moisture.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the blondies; if it comes out clean, they are done. If there are wet crumbs, they need more baking time.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing to ensure the batter isn’t too wet.
How should I store the blondies?
Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or other add-ins when mixing the batter for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
These delightful banana blondies, enriched with the nutty flavor of browned butter and topped with a creamy frosting, make for a perfect treat any time of the day. The combination of ripe bananas and brown sugar creates a moist and flavorful dessert that is sure to please friends and family alike. Enjoy them fresh out of the pan or as part of your dessert spread!
Banana Walnut Blondies
Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts to the batter for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor.
Chocolate Chip Banana Blondies
Stir in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent treat.
Coconut Banana Blondies
Incorporate 1 cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist.
Peanut Butter Swirl Blondies
Add dollops of peanut butter throughout the batter before baking for a delicious flavor contrast.
Caramel Drizzle Topping
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the frosted blondies for an extra sweet kick.
Spiced Banana Blondies
Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
Nut-Free Banana Blondies
Remove any nuts from the recipe, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies.
Banana Chocolate Swirl Blondies
Combine cocoa powder into half of the batter and swirl it together with the banana batter before baking for a stunning visual and taste contrast.
