Name: Banana Blondies: Soft, Chewy Delight for Sweet Moments
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Vanilla Wafers (Crushed, reserve one cup for topping.); ¾ cup Unsalted Butter (Melted for mixing, some for greasing the pan.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Main structure component.); 1.5 teaspoons Baking Soda (Helps the blondies rise.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1.25 cups Granulated Sugar (Provides sweetness.); 2 boxes Instant Banana Pudding Mix (Intensifies banana flavor.); 3 large Eggs (Acts as the binding agent.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Adds depth of flavor.); 2 cups White Chocolate Chips (For indulgent sweetness.)

“Have you ever stumbled upon a recipe that feels like a warm embrace? These Soft and Chewy Banana Blondies with a delightful Vanilla Wafer Crust are just that! Blending the nostalgia of banana pudding into a convenient and scrumptious bar, this dessert quickly transforms mere bananas into something extraordinary. Not only are these blondies a crowd-pleaser, but they also boast an effortless prep time that makes them perfect for after-school snacks or unexpected guests. Imagine biting into their golden, chewy center, complemented by the unique crisp of the buttery crust—pure bliss! Intrigued? Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious treat that promises to become a favorite in your home.”

Why are Banana Blondies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: These blondies offer a heavenly mix of banana sweetness and creamy white chocolate that’s simply unforgettable.

Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time. Perfect for busy days!

Chewy Goodness: The combination of soft and chewy textures with a crispy vanilla wafer crust makes each bite a pleasurable experience.

Customizable: Adapt the recipe with add-ins like nuts or different chocolate types to suit your taste, making it endlessly versatile!

Nostalgic Comfort: Channel your inner child with these blondies, reminiscent of family gatherings and lively celebrations. Just like my delicious Strawberry Banana Bread, they’re bound to create cherished moments around the table. Enjoy sharing them with loved ones!

Banana Blondies Ingredients

• For the Crust:

Vanilla Wafers – The base for the crust; crush before use and reserve one cup for topping.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; use melted for mixing and some for greasing the pan.

• For the Blondie Batter:

All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component; vital for the blondies’ texture.
Baking Soda – Helps the blondies rise for a fluffy texture.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor for a well-rounded sweetness.
Granulated Sugar – Provides essential sweetness and texture.
Instant Banana Pudding Mix – Intensifies banana flavor; the heart of these chewy Banana Blondies.
Eggs – Acts as the binding agent, ensuring a moist finish.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the blondies.
White Chocolate Chips – For indulgent sweetness; can be swapped with dark chocolate for a twist.

These delightful Banana Blondies are bound to be a hit in your home, combining ease of preparation with the comforting flavors of bananas and vanilla!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Blondies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it generously with some unsalted butter. This prevents the blondies from sticking and ensures an easy release once they’re baked. Take a moment to gather your ingredients for a smooth workflow!

Step 2: Make the Crust
In a plastic bag, crush enough vanilla wafers to create a fine crumb. Pour the crushed wafers into a mixing bowl and combine them with ¾ cup of melted butter, mixing until fully coated. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased baking pan. Bake for 5 minutes, just until set, and then remove it from the oven to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare Blondie Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1.25 cups of granulated sugar, and two boxes of instant banana pudding mix. Once combined, add in 3 eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and the remaining melted butter. Stir the mixture gently until it is just combined, ensuring not to overmix for soft, chewy Banana Blondies.

Step 4: Add Chocolate and Wafers
With the blondie batter prepared, fold in 2 cups of white chocolate chips along with the reserved crushed vanilla wafers for an extra crunch and flavor. This delightful addition will enhance the chewy texture and make every bite a little burst of sweetness. Make sure to mix gently to keep the batter fluffy and airy.

Step 5: Bake
Spread the luscious blondie batter evenly over the baked vanilla wafer crust. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Watch for a pale golden color and a set center; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. This indicates that your Banana Blondies are perfectly done!

Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove your pan from the oven and let the blondies cool completely in the pan. This cooling period is essential for setting their structure. Once cooled, slice them into bars—perfectly chewy and inviting. Serve them as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Expert Tips for Banana Blondies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing, which results in a better-blended batter.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to maintain the tender, soft texture of your banana blondies. Overmixing can make them tough!

Cooling Time Matters: Allow your blondies to cool completely before slicing to ensure they set properly, avoiding messy, crumbly bars.

Perfectly Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time; pull them out once they are pale golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs for ideal texture.

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate, or add nuts for extra crunch in your banana blondies!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Chewy Banana Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerating the components separately. To maintain the quality of your Banana Blondies, crush the vanilla wafers and mix them with butter; then store them in a sealed container. For the batter, mix all dry ingredients and store it in the fridge (add eggs and wet ingredients just before baking). When you’re ready to enjoy, spread the batter over the crust, bake for 15-20 minutes, and you’ll have a delicious dessert with minimal effort—ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings!

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Banana Blondies?

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these sweet treats with delightful accompaniments that enhance their comforting flavor.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast that softens each bite, creating a decadent duo.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream enhances the richness of the blondies, making each bite a cloud of delight.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the blondies adds an indulgent sweetness that complements the banana flavors beautifully.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of brightness, balancing the sweetness of the blondies.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or latte pairs wonderfully, enhancing the flavors and creating a cozy dessert moment that’s truly relaxing.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate indulgence with a bittersweet chocolate drizzle; it will create a rich contrast with the blondies’ soft sweetness.
Nutty Topping: Sprinkle toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy texture—this adds both flavor and crunch to each bite.
Banana Slices: Celebrate the banana flavor with fresh banana slices on the side, amplifying that beloved natural sweetness in every bite.

Banana Blondies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity and personalize these delicious blondies with various twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond butter in place of unsalted butter and choose dairy-free chocolate chips for a delightful vegan treat.
Healthy Twist: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber without losing that classic blondie texture.
Nuts Galore: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans to introduce a pleasant crunch. They add both flavor and texture, making your blondies even more indulgent.
Flavorful Spice: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the flavor profile and evoke cozy feelings with every bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top after baking. It adds a beautiful finish to the blondies!
Caramel Swirl: Incorporate a swirl of caramel sauce into the batter before baking for yet another level of indulgence. The combination of banana and caramel is heavenly!
Fruity Fun: Add a cup of chopped strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist. They’ll not only enhance the flavor but also offer a delightful burst of freshness.
For extra inspiration, check out my scrumptious Strawberry Banana Bread recipe, which captures similar delicious flavors and is perfect as a sweet treat!

Storage Tips for Banana Blondies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage option, refrigerate for up to a week, but allow them to sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to enjoy their best taste.
Freezer: For even longer storage, freeze the banana blondies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave individual blondie bars for about 10-15 seconds. This will enhance their soft and chewy goodness!

Banana Blondies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe bananas for the recipe?
Absolutely! Select bananas that are well-ripened, with a deep yellow color and some brown spots. These bananas are sweeter and provide the best flavor for your banana blondies. Avoid any that are overly green or have dark brown mushy spots.

How should I store leftover Banana Blondies?
I often store my blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about a week. Just remember, let them sit at room temperature a bit before serving to fully enjoy their chewy texture.

Can I freeze Banana Blondies for later?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to savor these delicious treats later. Wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that warm, chewy goodness!

My banana blondies are too dry; what happened?
Very common! Dry blondies can occur if they’re overbaked or if you accidentally added too much flour. I recommend keeping a close eye on your blondies as they bake, pulling them out when they’re just pale golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. This will preserve that desired soft and chewy texture!

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! This banana blondie recipe doesn’t include any nuts, making it safe for nut allergies. However, always make sure your chocolate chips and other ingredients are also nut-free to prevent any cross-contamination.

Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with something else?
The more the merrier! You can definitely substitute white chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips according to your preference. You could also try adding cinnamon chips or even caramel bits for a fun twist! Just remember to adjust the sweetness to your taste if you choose a sweeter option.