Name: Decadent Banana Blondies with a Crunchy Vanilla Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Vanilla Wafers (Crushed for the base); ¾ cup Unsalted Butter (Partially melted); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Do not pack when measuring); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure it's fresh); ½ teaspoon Salt (Skip if using salted butter); 1 cup White Sugar (Alternative: coconut sugar); 1 package Instant Banana Pudding Mix (Use instant to prevent clumping); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Swap with almond extract if desired); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (Can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate); 1 cup Reserved Crushed Vanilla Wafers (For folding into the batter)

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As I rummaged through my pantry one afternoon, the sweet aroma of ripe bananas beckoned me to create something special. I couldn’t resist the idea of baking Soft and Chewy Banana Blondies with Vanilla Wafer Crust—a delightful twist on classic desserts. These blondies offer the perfect balance of soft, chewy texture and a rich, buttery crust that makes them simply irresistible. Imagine treating yourself to this quick-to-prepare dessert that doubles as a fantastic after-school snack for the family—what’s not to love? With a burst of banana flavor and creamy white chocolate throughout, these treats are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Curious about how to whip up these delicious bars? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why Are These Banana Blondies Irresistible?

Decadent flavor: These blondies are packed with rich banana goodness, perfectly complemented by creamy white chocolate chips.

Quick to prepare: Ready in less than 30 minutes, they’re ideal for when you need a fast treat without sacrificing taste.

Versatile snack: Perfect for any occasion, these bars are great as an afternoon snack, dessert, or even a lunchbox surprise!

Fun variations: Add nuts or different pudding flavors to customize your blondies, making them uniquely yours.

Family favorite: With their soft texture and delightful sweetness, it’s hard not to love these blondies—just like the beloved Cinnamon Sugar Air recipe, your family will ask for seconds!

Satisfying crunch: The buttery vanilla wafer crust provides a deliciously crunchy contrast, making every bite an adventure.

Banana Blondies Ingredients

• Discover the key ingredients for scrumptious Banana Blondies below!

For the Crust

Vanilla Wafers – The sturdy base of these blondies; substitute with graham crackers for a different flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; use partially melted for smoother mixing.

For the Blondie Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; remember not to pack when measuring.
Baking Soda – Essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Salt – Enhances flavor; skip if using salted butter.
White Sugar – Sweetens the batter perfectly; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a lower glycemic option.
Instant Banana Pudding Mix – Intensifies that delicious banana flavor; use instant to prevent clumping.
Eggs – Binds all ingredients; ensure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Deepens the flavor; feel free to swap with almond extract for a nutty twist.
White Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and a creamy texture; consider using semi-sweet or dark chocolate for variety.
Reserved Crushed Vanilla Wafers – For folding into the batter, enhancing flavor and texture.

Enjoy mixing up these delightful ingredients to create your Banana Blondies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a perfect bake. While the oven heats, prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it generously with butter or non-stick spray. This will create a lovely, non-sticky surface for your delicious Banana Blondies.

Step 2: Crush the Vanilla Wafers
In a sturdy plastic bag, add your vanilla wafers and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or your hands. Reserve one cup of these crushed wafers for later. The remaining crumbs will form the base of your decadent blondies, providing that delightful crunch.

Step 3: Make the Crust
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers with ¾ cup of partially melted unsalted butter. Mix well until everything is moistened, then pour this mixture into the greased baking pan. Press it firmly to form an even crust. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until it sets just slightly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
While the crust bakes, grab a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, white sugar, and instant banana pudding mix. Make sure there are no lumps, as the pudding mix helps intensify the banana flavor in your Banana Blondies. This dry blend will be the foundation of your batter.

Step 5: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Add two room temperature eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the remaining melted butter to the dry ingredients. Gently mix these wet ingredients in until just combined. This step is crucial for achieving that soft and chewy texture, so be careful not to overmix—the goal is a moist batter without flour streaks.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Wafers
Once your batter is ready, gently fold in the white chocolate chips and the reserved one cup of crushed vanilla wafers. Ensure the chips are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for that creamy sweetness in each bite of your Banana Blondies.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Spread the prepared batter evenly over the baked crust with a spatula, ensuring every corner is filled. Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let your Banana Blondies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Cooling allows them to set, making them easier to cut into bars. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy the delightful flavors!

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Storage Tips for Banana Blondies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft while maintaining the delicious flavor.

Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze Banana Blondies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: If you prefer your blondies warm, microwave individual portions for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy them with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful treat!

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Banana Blondies

Indulging in soft, chewy bars that bring delightful banana flavors deserves a meal that complements their sweetness beautifully.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the sweet banana taste.
Hot Coffee: The bitter notes of a freshly brewed cup balance the sweetness of the blondies, making each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce elevates your dessert experience, pairing perfectly with the white chocolate chips inside.
Fruity Smoothie: A light banana or mixed berry smoothie offers a refreshing twist, keeping the fruity theme alive while adding a dash of health.
Caramel Sauce: The gooey sweetness of caramel sauce can take your blondies to an entirely new level of indulgence—perfect for drizzling atop warm servings.
Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft blondies, enhancing every bite’s experience.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries bring a tartness that beautifully balances the rich sweetness of the blondies, creating a lovely burst of flavor.
Herbal Tea: Pair with a calming herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, to help cleanse the palate and add an aromatic touch to your dessert experience.

Banana Blondies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Banana Blondies and bring your personal touch to this delightful dessert!

Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for a satisfying crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Flavor Adventure: Swap out the instant banana pudding mix for butterscotch or vanilla pudding for a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds.
Chocolate Lovers: Replace white chocolate chips with dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips to create a richer, more intense chocolatey experience.
Fruity Delight: Fold in 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of fruity flavor that complements the banana beautifully.
Coconut Twist: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that pairs marvelously with bananas; the added texture is delightful!
Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free baking flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that still retains its soft and chewy charm.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spiciness that elevates the banana flavor and gives a cozy feel.
Mini Blondies: Pour the batter into a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats—perfect for sharing or a quick snack that’ll spark joy in every nibble.

Feel free to experiment with these variations and share your spin on these delicious Banana Blondies—the perfect way to whip up something extraordinary, just like these Cinnamon Sugar Air treats!

Expert Tips for Banana Blondies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and butter for a better blend and softer texture in your Banana Blondies.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense blondies. A gentle fold is all you need!
Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can make them dry. Remove from the oven as soon as they’re golden brown.
Cool Completely: Allow blondies to cool completely before slicing. This ensures they hold their shape and the texture remains soft and chewy.
Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite nuts or switch up the chocolate chips. Unique flavors will make your Banana Blondies even more enticing!

Make Ahead Options

These Banana Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and batter up to 24 hours in advance, making your baking simpler on busy days. To do this, crush the vanilla wafers and mix them with melted butter for the crust, pressing it into the pan. Then, make the blondie batter, but don’t bake it just yet! Store the crust covered in the refrigerator to maintain its texture and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the prepared batter over the crust and bake as instructed. This way, your delectable Banana Blondies will be just as delicious, ready to impress any guest or satisfy your sweet tooth!

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Banana Blondies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for in ripe bananas?
When selecting bananas, aim for ones that are fully yellow with a few brown spots. These bananas have reached peak sweetness, making them ideal for your Banana Blondies. Avoid bananas that are overly green, as they won’t provide the rich flavor you desire.

How should I store Banana Blondies?
Store your Banana Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, transfer to the refrigerator, where they will last for about a week. Remember to allow them to warm up to room temperature for the best taste!

Can I freeze Banana Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Banana Blondies, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, slice them into bars and place them in an airtight container or ziplock bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or use the microwave for a quick warm-up.

What if my blondies turn out too dry?
If you find your Banana Blondies are too dry, overbaking might have been the culprit, so keep an eye on them as they bake. Another tip is to ensure all wet ingredients are well-combined and at room temperature, which helps maintain moisture. If you’re still having trouble, consider adding an extra banana or reducing the baking time by a few minutes.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making Banana Blondies?
Yes, if you’re serving these to someone with dietary restrictions, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, be cautious if anyone has allergies to nuts or dairy, especially if you decide to add nuts or alternative toppings like whipped cream or ice cream.