If you’re a fan of moist, flavorful baked goods with a sweet, rich twist, look no further than these Banana Blondies with Caramel Icing!
This recipe is the perfect marriage of banana bread’s tender crumb and the sweetness of a blondie, all topped with an irresistible caramel frosting.
The result? A mouthwatering dessert that’s soft, chewy, and deliciously decadent.
Why Banana Blondies?
Banana blondies are a unique take on traditional blondies.
While classic blondies rely on brown sugar and butter for flavor, banana blondies take things up a notch by adding the natural sweetness and creaminess of bananas.
The caramel icing adds another layer of indulgence, giving these blondies a rich, buttery finish that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees an impressive result.
Equipment Needed
Before you dive into this recipe, ensure you have the necessary tools to make the process smooth and hassle-free:
- 9×9 inch baking pan – A square baking pan is perfect for achieving those neat, sliceable bars.
- Mixing bowls – One for the wet ingredients and one for the dry.
- Electric mixer or whisk – To cream the butter and sugar together for that light, fluffy texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accuracy in your ingredients.
- Spatula – For scraping the batter into the pan and spreading it evenly.
- Small saucepan – To prepare the caramel icing.
- Parchment paper (optional) – Lining the pan makes lifting the blondies out for cutting much easier.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need, along with a few tips to ensure the best results:
For the Banana Blondies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Butter gives blondies their rich flavor and moist texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed – Brown sugar deepens the flavor and adds chewiness, thanks to its molasses content.
- 1 large egg – The egg helps bind the ingredients and provides structure to the blondies.
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds warmth to the overall flavor.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Flour provides the base and structure for the blondies. Be sure to measure it accurately.
- 1/2 cup well-mashed banana (about 1 to 1 1/2 bananas) – The mashed banana adds moisture, flavor, and a touch of natural sweetness.
For the Caramel Icing:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Butter is the base of the caramel icing, giving it richness.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed – Brown sugar gives the icing its caramel flavor.
- 2 Tbsp cream or milk – This adds creaminess and helps achieve the right consistency.
- 1 cup confectioner’s sugar (or a little more) – Powdered sugar thickens the icing and gives it that smooth, glossy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get started on making these indulgent banana blondies!
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray a 9×9 inch baking pan with nonstick spray. You can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the blondies later. This step is optional but highly recommended for easy cutting and clean-up.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This process can take about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to dissolve the sugar slightly into the butter, creating a smooth texture.
- Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. The egg will help bind the ingredients together, while the vanilla adds a subtle layer of flavor.
3. Incorporate the Banana
- Add the mashed banana to the mixture and stir until everything is combined. The banana should be well-mashed to ensure it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. This step gives the blondies their signature moistness and flavor.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients
- Sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, and gently fold them into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to over-mix at this stage. Over-mixing can cause the blondies to become dense and tough, so stir just until everything is combined.
5. Bake the Blondies
- Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges should be lightly golden, but the middle should still look slightly soft to ensure a fudgy texture.
- Allow the blondies to cool most of the way in the pan before adding the caramel icing.
6. Prepare the Caramel Icing
- While the blondies are cooling, prepare the caramel icing. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the brown sugar and cream (or milk), whisking constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
- Once it reaches a boil, remove it from heat and immediately whisk in the sifted powdered sugar. Keep whisking until the icing is smooth and no lumps remain. You may need to add a little more powdered sugar if the icing seems too thin. It should be thick enough to spread but not runny.
7. Frost the Blondies
- While the blondies are still slightly warm, pour the caramel icing over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The warmth from the blondies will help the icing spread easily, and it will begin to set fairly quickly.
- Let the icing set before cutting the blondies into squares. The icing will harden slightly, creating a deliciously chewy caramel layer on top.
Serving Suggestions
Once your banana blondies have cooled and the caramel icing has set, you can cut them into squares and serve. These blondies are perfect on their own, but if you want to take them up a notch, consider serving them with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce for a contrast to the caramel.
- A sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to add a bit of crunch.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: These banana blondies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay moist and chewy, thanks to the banana and brown sugar.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keep in mind that the caramel icing will firm up more in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the blondies individually and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Blondies with Caramel Icing are a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
The sweet, slightly tangy banana base pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery caramel icing, creating a treat that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re making them for a casual family dessert or a special occasion, these blondies are sure to be a hit!
The recipe is simple enough for novice bakers but impressive enough to satisfy even the most experienced dessert lovers.
Enjoy your time baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite of these mouthwatering banana blondies!