A sweet aroma wafts through my kitchen, transporting me back to my childhood where warm treats were always a comforting hug after a long day. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for soft and chewy banana blondies with a delightful vanilla wafer crust—a twist on traditional desserts that will turn heads at any gathering. These blondies are not only quick to whip up, but they also deliver the kind of nostalgic flavor that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re looking for an easy treat for after-school snacking or a crowd-pleasing dessert for your next potluck, you’ll find that these banana blondies check all the boxes. How do you make a treat that combines the best of banana pudding with the fun of a bar dessert? Let’s dive into the sweet magic of these delicious blondies!
Why Will You Love These Banana Blondies?
Irresistible Flavor: These blondies feature a perfect melt-in-your-mouth banana flavor complemented by rich white chocolate, delivering a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delights in no time.
Texture Heaven: Enjoy the contrast between the soft, chewy interior and the crunchy vanilla wafer crust that adds an enjoyable bite.
Versatile Delight: These blondies can easily be customized with your favorite mix-ins—think nuts or different chocolate types for a twist!
Perfect for Any Occasion: From lunchboxes to parties, these treats will brighten any gathering. Serve them alongside a warm cup of coffee or even with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent moment! Check out similar treats like Hawaiian Banana Bread for more delicious inspiration.
Banana Blondies Ingredients
• Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these banana blondies!
For the Crust
Vanilla Wafers – About 1 ½ Boxes (16 ounces); these create the delightful base and crust, adding a nostalgic flavor.
Unsalted Butter – ¾ cup, melted; be sure to use unsalted to control salt levels for your blondies.
For the Blondie Batter
All-Purpose Flour – 3 cups; measure accurately for the best structure in your treats.
Baking Soda – 1 ½ teaspoons; make sure it’s fresh for optimal rise in your blondies.
Salt – 1 teaspoon; necessary to balance the sweetness, adjust if using salted butter.
Granulated Sugar – 1 ¼ cups; this provides just the right sweetness and moisture.
Instant Banana Pudding Mix – 2 boxes (3.4 ounces each); this ingredient intensifies the banana flavor in your blondies.
Eggs – 3 large, best at room temperature for a creamy batter consistency.
Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons; pure vanilla enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
White Chocolate Chips – 2 cups; they add sweet bursts of flavor, but feel free to substitute with dark chocolate if you prefer!
For the Topping
Reserved Vanilla Wafers – 1 cup, crushed; these will sprinkle on top for added crunch and decoration.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your banana blondies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden hue. While the oven heats, prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lightly spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Crush 16 ounces of vanilla wafers into fine crumbs, reserving 1 cup for topping later. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed wafers with ¾ cup melted unsalted butter, mixing until they are thoroughly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan, creating a uniform layer, then bake for 5 minutes until slightly set.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar, and the contents of 2 boxes of instant banana pudding mix. This dry mixture will provide the structure and sweet banana flavor essential for your banana blondies, so ensure it is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add 3 large room-temperature eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and the remaining 1 ¼ cups of melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your blondies soft and chewy. This batter will be rich and slightly thick, reflecting the luscious texture of your banana blondies.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Wafer Crumbs
Gently fold in the 2 cups of white chocolate chips and the reserved crushed vanilla wafers. This step adds delightful bursts of sweetness and texture throughout your batter. Once evenly distributed, spread the mixture over the warm crust in the baking pan, ensuring an even layer.
Step 6: Bake for Doneness
Place the pan back in the oven and bake the banana blondies for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden color around the edges, and insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This indicates they are perfectly baked and ready for cooling.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove your banana blondies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once completely cool, slice them into squares or bars, revealing the beautifully chewy interior and crunchy crust. These delicious treats are now ready to be served at your next gathering!
Expert Tips for Banana Blondies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use eggs and butter at room temperature for a smoother batter that blends effortlessly, resulting in incredibly soft and chewy banana blondies.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter just until combined after adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies instead of the desired chewiness.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on them; they continue to set as they cool. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs for perfect results.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to swap in different chocolate types or add nuts to personalize your banana blondies and make them uniquely yours!
- Store Wisely: For the best texture, store in an airtight container. These blondies will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Banana Blondies?
A dessert like this deserves delightful companions to elevate your dining experience and create a memorable meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds an ultra-creamy contrast to the chewy blondies, making every bite a luscious delight. It enhances the banana flavor while keeping things cool.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of freshness and tang, balancing the sweetness of the blondies with vibrant color and flavor.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream on top transforms your banana blondies into a glamorous dessert, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee elevate the dessert experience, making the sweetness shine even brighter. It’s a comforting way to enjoy these blondies, especially after a hearty meal.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the blondies for an indulgent treat. The buttery richness complements the moistness of the bars beautifully.
Nutty Crunch Mix: Add a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts on the side for a textural contrast. Their earthy flavors will complement the banana and enhance the overall dessert experience.
Chocolate Milkshake: A thick, creamy chocolate milkshake not only makes for a nostalgic childhood pairing but also creates a fun and interactive dessert experience that’s sure to please.
Coconut Flakes: A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can add another layer of flavor and texture, bringing tropical vibes to your banana blondies.
Each of these choices enhances the joy of your banana blondies and makes gatherings extra special, inviting smiles and seconds!
Banana Blondies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these banana blondies your own by experimenting with flavorful twists and alternative ingredients!
- Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delicious crunch that complements the chewy texture beautifully.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a friendly vegan version.
- Flavored Pudding Mix: For an exciting twist, swap out the banana pudding mix for vanilla or coconut to explore new flavors.
- Dark Chocolate: Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate or semi-sweet chips for a richer taste. Dark chocolate brings a lovely depth to the sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic flavor, making your blondies even more inviting.
- Fruity Burst: Fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh strawberries or raspberries to introduce a refreshing zing and beautiful color to your blondies.
- Oatmeal Texture: Mix in 1 cup of quick oats to the batter for a wholesome texture, adding fiber and a chewy bite.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Create a delightful peanut butter swirl by gently folding ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking. This adds richness and a delicious flavor combo to your blondies.
These ideas not only personalize your creation but can also elevate your dessert experience. And if you’re curious about more sweet recipes, don’t miss out on these delightful treats like Hawaiian Banana Bread or the indulgent Chocolate Covered Banana. Happy baking!
Storage Tips for Banana Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep banana blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store them in the refrigerator, where they will last up to a week. Just ensure they remain covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze banana blondies for up to 3 months; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge when ready to enjoy!
Reheating: To enjoy warm blondies, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain their gooey deliciousness without losing their original texture.
Make Ahead Options
These banana blondies are the perfect dessert for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time, you can prepare the crust by crushing the vanilla wafers and mixing them with melted butter, then press this mixture into the baking pan—this step can be done up to 24 hours in advance. Store the crust in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, and pudding mix) and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply beat in the wet ingredients, fold in the chocolate chips, and spread the batter on the prepared crust before baking. This way, your banana blondies will stay just as delicious and soft!
Banana Blondies Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my bananas are ripe enough for the recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are speckled with brown spots all over; this indicates they are sweet and ready to use. The softer and more ripe they are, the better the flavor will be in your banana blondies.
What’s the best way to store banana blondies for freshness?
To keep your banana blondies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for about a week.
Can I freeze banana blondies for later?
Very! You can freeze banana blondies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight for a perfect texture!
What should I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
If your banana blondies are dry, it may be a sign of overbaking. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off! If they do turn out dry, you can add a dollop of whipped cream or serve them warm with vanilla ice cream to boost moisture when serving.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider when making banana blondies?
If you’re baking for people with dietary restrictions, you can substitute ingredients to make it more accommodating. For instance, you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or dairy-free butter and chocolate to cater to dairy sensitivities.
What if I can’t find instant banana pudding mix?
No worries! If you can’t find instant banana pudding mix, you can substitute it with vanilla pudding mix to keep the structure and moisture intact. You may also mash an extra ripe banana and add it to your batter for that delicious banana flavor!
Soft and Chewy Banana Blondies That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by lightly spraying it with cooking spray.
- Crush 16 ounces of vanilla wafers into fine crumbs and mix with ¾ cup melted unsalted butter. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 5 minutes.
- In a 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 the 2 boxes of instant banana pudding mix.
- Add 3 large room-temperature eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and the remaining 1.25 cups of melted butter. Stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in 2 cups of white chocolate chips and the reserved crushed vanilla wafers, then spread over the warm crust.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, checking for a golden color around the edges and a toothpick coming out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan before slicing into squares or bars.