When your kitchen counter is full of ripening bananas and you’re tired of the same old banana bread, it’s time to turn those overripe gems into something truly special. Enter banana blondies—a rich, chewy, and flavorful treat that transforms humble bananas into one of the most simple banana dessert recipes you’ll ever make. These bars are soft in the center, perfectly golden on top, and packed with banana flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar. They’re quick to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and just different enough from the usual banana bakes to become your new go-to dessert.
Whether you’re feeding a large group or just looking for delicious desserts for a crowd, banana blondies check every box. They’re also the perfect solution when you’re wondering what to make with over ripened bananas besides muffins or loaf cake. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, they’re ideal for potlucks, casual gatherings, school bake sales, or simply as a weeknight dessert that doesn’t require a mixer or complicated steps. And because this recipe works just as well with 2 bananas recipes as it does with three banana recipes, it’s endlessly flexible for whatever you have on hand.
In addition to their amazing flavor and chewy texture, these blondies also lend themselves to endless customizations. Whether you’re adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even incorporating unique cultural twists like a Mexican banana dessert vibe with cinnamon and spice, this recipe can adapt to your preferences. They even qualify as one of the more healthy dessert recipes with banana if you tweak a few ingredients and use whole grains or natural sweeteners. So, let’s dig into everything you need to know to make banana blondies your favorite banana-based dessert.
Why Banana Blondies Are Perfect for a Crowd or Solo Treat
If you’re someone who’s always looking for delicious desserts for a crowd, banana blondies are an excellent option. Because they’re baked in a single pan and cut into bars, they’re easy to portion and even easier to serve. Unlike layered cakes or fancy plated desserts, blondies are meant to be unfussy—yet they deliver big when it comes to flavor and satisfaction. They also travel well, making them the perfect take-along treat for parties, picnics, and potlucks.
On the other hand, these blondies are just as perfect for small-batch baking. If you only have two bananas and a craving for something sweet, this recipe still works beautifully. That’s one reason they’ve become so popular among those seeking 2 bananas recipes that aren’t boring. They’re a great way to treat yourself or your family to a homemade dessert without making too much or spending hours in the kitchen. Their slightly crispy edges and soft, gooey centers are incredibly addictive—and they taste even better the next day.
Furthermore, banana blondies appeal to all age groups. Kids love their sweetness, adults enjoy the complex flavor notes, and no one will ever guess how easy they are to make. So whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or baking just because, blondies are the perfect middle ground between effort and reward.
SaveIngredients for Banana Blondies Using 2 or 3 Bananas
The ingredients for banana blondies are straightforward, and you likely have most of them in your pantry already. Depending on how many bananas you have available, you can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. Here’s the basic lineup for making an easy pan of blondies using easy recipes with ripe bananas:
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas (or 3 for extra banana flavor), mashed
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional mix-ins: ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips
These ingredients combine to make a rich batter with a smooth texture and deep flavor. Using brown sugar adds a subtle molasses note that works perfectly with the banana. If you’re using three banana recipes, your blondies will turn out even moister and more flavorful—though they may take an extra minute or two to bake through.
You can also tweak this recipe slightly to make it fall under healthy dessert recipes with banana by substituting part of the butter with applesauce, using whole wheat flour, or reducing the sugar slightly. Even with adjustments, the end result is still rich and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Recipes with Ripe Bananas
Making banana blondies couldn’t be simpler, and that’s one reason it’s one of the best easy recipes with ripe bananas. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get perfectly baked blondies every time.
Step 1: Preheat and prepare your pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then stir in the mashed bananas until the mixture is well-blended.
Step 3: Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Add mix-ins if using
If you’re adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even cinnamon sugar topping, fold them in at this stage.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and slice
Let the blondies cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes before slicing into squares. This allows them to set and develop their chewy texture.
And that’s it. These blondies are a testament to how simple banana baking recipes can yield delicious, bakery-worthy results without the fuss.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Delicious Banana Blondies
To make banana blondies, you don’t need a stand mixer or any fancy kitchen gear. Here’s a quick checklist of basic tools you’ll need for the best outcome:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Cooling rack
- Fork or potato masher for mashing bananas
With these tools in hand, you’ll breeze through this recipe and have one of the most delicious desserts for a crowd on the table in under an hour.
Tips to Make the Best Banana Blondies Every Time
While the recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few helpful tips can take your blondies from good to great. First, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. These are sweeter and mash more easily, infusing the batter with deeper flavor. If your bananas aren’t quite ripe, you can roast them in the oven for 15 minutes at 300°F to bring out their sweetness.
Second, don’t skip the salt—it enhances the flavor of the brown sugar and bananas. And if you like a slightly crispy top, sprinkle a little raw sugar over the batter before baking.
Finally, for an extra touch of indulgence, consider drizzling your blondies with a cream cheese glaze or melted chocolate once they’ve cooled. This takes the presentation and taste to the next level, making them ideal Mexican banana dessert style for special occasions or celebrations.
Creative Twists: Sourdough Banana Bars and Mexican Banana Dessert Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, there’s plenty of room for creativity. For those who keep sourdough starter on hand, try turning these into sourdough banana bars by adding ½ cup of unfed sourdough starter to the batter. This gives the bars a subtle tang that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the bananas and sugar.
You can also add a cultural twist and create a Mexican banana dessert version by incorporating cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of chili powder into the batter. Top the finished blondies with dulce de leche or cinnamon whipped cream for a flavor that’s both unique and comforting.
The possibilities are nearly endless. Once you start exploring these variations, you’ll discover new and exciting ways to reinvent banana blondies over and over again.
What to Make with Over Ripened Bananas Besides Banana Bread
If you’ve ever searched for what to make with over ripened bananas, you’ve likely come across the usual suspects—banana bread, muffins, pancakes. But banana blondies offer a fresh take that stands out from the crowd.
They bake faster than bread, cool quicker, and have a satisfyingly chewy texture that’s different from the typical loaf cake. Plus, their simple, one-bowl prep makes them easier and faster for everyday baking.
Next time you find two or three soft bananas on your counter, don’t toss them or default to another loaf of banana bread. Instead, try this inventive, satisfying recipe and enjoy three banana recipes that finally give those fruits the spotlight they deserve.
How to Store and Serve Healthy Dessert Recipes with Banana
One of the best things about banana blondies is how well they store. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and keep at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them individually for up to two months.
To make them more in line with healthy dessert recipes with banana, you can reduce the sugar slightly, swap in some almond or oat flour, and use coconut oil instead of butter. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, making them an ideal candidate for health-conscious baking tweaks.
Serve these bars with tea or coffee, or pack them in lunchboxes for a midday treat. They also make an excellent after-school snack or a pre-workout energy bar when made with added oats and nuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Banana-Based Dessert Recipes
Even with such a simple recipe, a few missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. First, avoid using under-ripe bananas, as they won’t deliver the sweetness and flavor you need. Second, don’t overmix your batter once the flour is added—this can make your blondies tough.
Another common mistake is overbaking. The blondies should be just set in the center when you take them out of the oven. They’ll continue to cook slightly as they cool. Finally, be sure to let them cool fully before slicing so they hold their shape and texture.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll always have great results with your easy recipes with ripe bananas.
SaveFAQ: Your Top Questions About Banana Blondies Answered
Can I make banana blondies gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Almond flour can work as well, though it may change the texture slightly.
How ripe should my bananas be?
Very ripe—lots of brown spots and a soft texture. The riper the banana, the better the flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness around the 35-minute mark.
Are banana blondies freezer-friendly?
Yes. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What mix-ins work best?
Chopped nuts, white or dark chocolate chips, toffee bits, and dried fruit all make excellent additions.
Conclusion + Call to Action
These banana blondies are the perfect balance of simple preparation, rich banana flavor, and chewy, satisfying texture. Whether you’re in need of easy recipes with ripe bananas, planning delicious desserts for a crowd, or just want to explore beyond the usual banana bread, this recipe delivers every time. It’s flexible, fast, and packed with flavor, making it one of the best answers to the age-old question: what to make with over ripened bananas?
So next time you see a bunch of spotted bananas on your counter, don’t toss them—turn them into something amazing. And if you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends, and subscribe to the blog for more creative simple banana dessert recipes and seasonal baking inspiration.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serves: 12 blondies
These chewy banana blondies are a simple banana dessert recipe made with 2 or 3 ripe bananas, brown sugar, and vanilla. Perfect for quick baking, serving a crowd, or customizing with healthy and cultural twists.
Ingredients
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½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
-
1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
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1 large egg
-
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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2 ripe bananas, mashed (or 3 for stronger banana flavor)
-
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
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¼ teaspoon salt
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Optional mix-ins: ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line or grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
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In a bowl, whisk melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla. Stir in mashed bananas.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
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Combine dry ingredients with the banana mixture and stir just until combined. Fold in any optional mix-ins.
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Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
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Let cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing into squares.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.
To reduce sugar, replace part of the brown sugar with applesauce.
Add cinnamon sugar topping before baking for extra flavor and texture.
Drizzle cooled blondies with melted chocolate or cream cheese glaze for a dessert-style finish.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: AMERICAIN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 blondies