If you have a soft spot for rich, moist treats that feel like a warm hug in every bite, then this Banana Blondies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These blondies are packed with the natural sweetness and creaminess of ripe bananas, while the brown butter frosting adds a nutty, caramel-kissed finish that takes this dessert to a whole new level. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these banana blondies deliver comfort and indulgence in one glorious square.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a luscious texture and incredible flavor. Each element plays a vital role, from the moisture of the bananas to the deep, toasted notes in the frosting.
- Salted butter: Melted butter forms the rich base of the blondies, ensuring a tender crumb and buttery flavor.
- Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel undertone, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and help the blondies rise just right.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall warmth and depth of the banana and brown sugar flavors.
- Salt: Elevates sweetness and rounds out the taste with a necessary balance.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that holds the blondies together with the perfect texture.
- Mashed banana: Offers natural sweetness and moistness, plus that unmistakable fruity charm.
- Brown butter: Whisked into the frosting to add a toasty, nutty richness.
- Milk: Lightens the frosting and creates a smooth finish.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for spreadable perfection.
How to Make Banana Blondies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray the paper lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Taking this extra step makes it super easy to lift out the blondies once they’re baked and cooled.
Step 2: Mix the Blondie Batter
In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the melted salted butter with the light brown sugar and stir until well mixed. Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until everything is beautifully incorporated. Sprinkle in the salt and flour, and then fold in the mashed bananas. The batter should be smooth, thick, and dotted with natural banana goodness.
Step 3: Bake the Blondies
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. This ensures the blondies are moist but fully cooked—perfectly soft without any raw batter worries. Let them cool completely before moving to the frosting stage.
Step 4: Make the Brown Butter Frosting
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the 1/4 cup of salted butter. Watch closely as it begins to brown and emit a wonderful nutty aroma—that’s your cue to take it off the heat! Stir in the brown sugar and milk, then bring the mixture just to a boil. Remove from heat and let it cool for about five minutes, which helps it thicken slightly. Finally, whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is silky and smooth.
Step 5: Frost and Set
Spread the luscious brown butter frosting evenly over the cooled blondies. Let the frosting set at room temperature until it firms up slightly, making it easier to cut clean squares that are impossible to resist.
How to Serve Banana Blondies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your banana blondies with a sprinkle of toasted chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty dimension that pairs perfectly with the brown butter frosting. If you’re feeling fancy, a light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds extra warmth and decadence.
Side Dishes
Serve these blondies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance their richness with creamy coolness. For a breakfast twist, pair a square with a cup of strong coffee or chai tea—the perfect sweet start (or sweet finish) to your day.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the blondies into bite-sized squares or sticks for easy sharing at parties and potlucks. Layer them in a trifle with banana slices and pudding for a show-stopping dessert. Or simply wrap individual squares in parchment paper tied with twine to give away as delightful homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your banana blondies with brown butter frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their fresh, tender texture. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is fine but may slightly firm the frosting, so bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted blondies for up to two months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then frost with the brown butter frosting fresh for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy a warm blondie, place an individual square in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This melts the frosting just a bit, making each bite irresistibly gooey and aromatic. Just be careful not to overheat, or the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are actually ideal because they are sweeter and softer, which enhances the moisture and flavor of the blondies.
Is it possible to make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or add a binding agent for the best texture.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries! You can comfortably mix all the ingredients by hand using a sturdy spoon or a whisk. Just take a bit more time to ensure the sugar dissolves into the butter well for a smooth batter.
Can I make the brown butter frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and whisk it gently before spreading it on the blondies.
Why did my frosting turn grainy?
Frosting can become grainy if the powdered sugar is added too quickly or if the mixture is overheated. Adding powdered sugar gradually while whisking smoothly helps maintain a silky texture.
Final Thoughts
There really is something magical about this Banana Blondies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe. It combines simple ingredients with a little baking love to create something deeply satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just trying your hand at new desserts, I promise these blondies will bring smiles and maybe even requests for seconds. Go ahead, dive into this comforting treat—you won’t regret it!
PrintBanana Blondies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe
These Banana Blondies are moist, flavorful bars combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich texture of a classic blondie. Topped with a decadent brown butter frosting, they make a perfect dessert or snack that’s sure to please any crowd.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Blondie Batter
- 1 cup salted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mashed banana (about 2 ½ medium-sized bananas)
Brown Butter Frosting
- ¼ cup salted butter
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray the paper lightly with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the blondies. Set aside.
- Make the blondie batter: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, combine the melted butter and light brown sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the salt, flour, and mashed bananas until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.
- Bake the blondies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out smoothly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Remove from the oven and allow the blondies to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the brown butter frosting: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the ¼ cup of butter, cooking it until it begins to barely brown and emits a nutty, aromatic scent, taking care not to burn it (approximately 2 minutes). Remove the pan from heat and immediately add the brown sugar and milk, stirring until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes.
- Finish the frosting: Whisk in the powdered sugar into the cooled butter mixture until fully combined and smooth. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled blondies.
- Set and serve: Let the frosting set completely before cutting the blondies into 24 squares. Serve and enjoy this delightful treat!
Notes
- Ensure the blondies are fully cooled before spreading the frosting to prevent it from melting and becoming runny.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
