Banana Bread Blondie Bars
A delightful cross between classic banana bread and rich blondies, these bars offer a moist, tender crumb infused with sweet banana flavor. Finished with a silky brown sugar or vanilla frosting, they deliver a decadent bite perfect for gatherings, afternoon treats, or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
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Servings: 12 bars
Ingredients
For the Banana Blondie Base:
- 2 cups mashed ripe bananas approximately 4 medium
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream or unflavored Greek yogurt 240 ml
- 1 cup white granulated sugar 200 g
- ½ cup room-temperature unsalted butter 113 g
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 250 g
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon table salt
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts optional, 60 g
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter 113 g
- 4 cups sifted powdered sugar 480 g
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk plus more as needed for consistency
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Dish
- Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Create the Batter
- In a sizable bowl, blend together the sugar, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the walnuts, if desired.
Bake the Bars
- Pour the prepared batter into the greased or lined baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Frosting
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and continue cooking until it takes on a golden hue and emits a nutty aroma—this usually takes 4 to 5 minutes. Take off the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to the browned butter. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. Adjust with additional milk if needed.
Frost and Serve
- Once the banana bars have fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly across the top. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
To enhance flavor, use bananas that are deeply spotted or heavily ripened. Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.