There’s something magical about the combination of peanut butter and banana, don’t you think? The nutty richness of peanut butter paired with the natural sweetness of bananas creates a flavor duo that feels like a warm hug. Add that to a gooey, buttery blondie, and you’ve got yourself a dessert that’s impossible to resist. These Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Blondies are basically comfort food in bar form, and trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Whether you’re looking for a quick treat to whip up for a potluck, something to satisfy your sweet tooth after dinner, or a way to use up those overly ripe bananas sitting on your counter, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into everything that makes these blondies a must-try dessert!
The Story Behind Peanut Butter Banana Blondies
Peanut butter and banana is a flavor combination that’s stood the test of time. Did you know that Elvis Presley was famously a fan of peanut butter and banana sandwiches? That’s one reason why this pairing has become iconic in the world of comfort food. But the idea of turning these flavors into a dessert bar? Well, that’s where the magic really happens.
I first came up with this recipe during a no-waste kitchen spree. My bananas were on the verge of going bad, and I’d run out of chocolate chips for my usual go-to banana bread. Desperate for a sweet fix, I raided my pantry and found a jar of peanut butter—and the rest is history. These blondies were born out of necessity, but they’ve since become a household favorite.
Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness, chewiness, and peanut butter goodness. It’s now my go-to dessert for summer picnics, cozy fall nights, and everything in between. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, which is always a win in my book!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the ingredients that make these blondies so special. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect flavor and texture:
- Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Spotty bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the batter. If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can microwave underripe ones for 30 seconds to soften them.
- Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best here for that smooth, nutty flavor. Natural peanut butter is fine, but make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid oily or dry spots.
- Butter: Melted butter gives these blondies their rich, chewy texture. You can substitute it with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter and banana.
- Egg: Just one egg binds everything together and gives the blondies structure. For a vegan option, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors. It’s the little detail that makes a big difference!
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the base of the batter. For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking Powder: This helps the blondies rise slightly, keeping them from being too dense.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and highlights the flavors.
Optional add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of Nutella can take these blondies to the next level. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Equipment Needed
You don’t need fancy gadgets to make these blondies, which is another reason they’re such a hit. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two—one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry.
- Whisk or Hand Mixer: A whisk works fine, but a hand mixer speeds things up.
- 8×8-inch Baking Pan: The ideal size for perfectly thick blondies. If you don’t have one, a 9×9-inch pan will work; just reduce the baking time slightly.
- Parchment Paper: For easy removal and cleanup.
- Spatula: To spread the batter evenly in the pan.
If you’re using a glass baking dish instead of metal, remember to lower your oven temperature by 25°F to avoid overbaking.
How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Blondies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the blondies out later.
- In a large bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. If using add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts, sprinkle them on top or fold them into the batter before pouring.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should look set but slightly soft.
- Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares, and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are a few tips to ensure your blondies turn out perfect every time:
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the blondies tough. Stir just until the flour is incorporated.
- Watch the baking time: Blondies can go from perfectly gooey to overbaked quickly. Start checking them at the 25-minute mark.
- Use parchment paper: This makes removing and slicing the blondies so much easier.
- Let them cool: I know it’s hard to wait, but cooling allows the blondies to set, making them easier to slice and enjoy.
Variations & Adaptations
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, try these variations:
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add a swirl of Nutella or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy vibe.
Have fun making these blondies your own!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These blondies are best served slightly warm with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual blondie squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per blondie (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 20g
Bananas provide essential vitamins like B6 and potassium, while peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein. Just remember, these blondies are still a treat—enjoy them in moderation!
Conclusion
These Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Blondies are a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Whether you’re a fan of peanut butter, bananas, or just crave a chewy, satisfying treat, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, the customization options mean you can make them uniquely yours every time!
What are you waiting for? Grab those ripe bananas and give this recipe a try. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any fun twists you added. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!
FAQs About Peanut Butter Banana Blondies
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of texture with peanut pieces. Just make sure it’s well-mixed before adding it to the batter.
What’s the best substitute for brown sugar?
You can use white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor, or coconut sugar for a more natural option.
How do I know when the blondies are done?
Look for golden-brown edges and a slightly set center. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these blondies taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store them in an airtight container for the best results.