Looking for a recipe that's a little bit different? Try these banana bread blondies. They're a delicious and healthy twist on the traditional blondie, combining the sweet, comforting flavors of banana bread with the gooey, fudgy texture of a blondie. This is a great way to use up ripe bananas and add a bit of fiber and protein to your treat thanks to the addition of oats and chickpeas.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are quite common, but you might not have chickpeas in your pantry. They're crucial in this recipe, adding protein and giving these blondies a moist texture. Also, the recipe calls for natvia but you can substitute it with the sugar of your choice. Finally, the recipe uses rolled oats, not to be confused with instant oats.
Ingredients for Banana Bread Blondies
Bananas: Used for sweetness and moisture. The riper the better.
Rolled oats: Adds a hearty texture and are a good source of fiber.
Chick peas: Key to the fudgy texture and add protein.
Peanut butter: Adds flavour and helps bind everything together.
Baking powder: Helps the blondies rise.
Honey: Natural sweetener.
Natvia or sugar of choice: Sweetens the blondies.
Salt: Enhances the flavour.
Almond milk: Adds moisture. You can substitute with other types of milk.
Chocolate chips: For that delicious, chocolatey finish.
One reader, Kayla Begley says:
This banana bread blondies recipe is a game-changer! The combination of bananas and oats creates a delightful texture, and the addition of chocolate chips adds a perfect touch of sweetness. It's a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies my sweet cravings. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Baking Techniques for Perfect Banana Bread Blondies
How to prepare the baking pan: Spray a 8x8 inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside.
How to blend the ingredients: Place all ingredients (except chocolate chips) into a food processor and blend until smooth. Fold half of the chocolate chips into the batter.
How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the blondies to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the blondies are ready. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become dry.
How to cut the blondies: Once cooled, gently cut the blondies into 16 bars using a sharp knife.
How To Make Banana Bread Blondies
Add a touch more sweetness to your usual blondies by whipping up this fruity-nutty banana bread blondies! Enjoy a chewy, low-fat treat in just 25 minutes.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2medium bananas,or large, ripe
- 1¾cupsrolled oats
- 1½cupschick peas,(1 can), drained and rinsed
- 2tbsppeanut butter,used Peanut Butter & Co The Bees Knees
- 1tspbaking powder
- 2tbsphoney
- 4tbspnatvia,or sugar of choice
- pinchsalt
- ½cuplow fat almond milk,or unsweetened
- ¼cupsemisweet chocolate chips,or dark
Instructions
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Preheat the oven 390 degrees F. Spray a 8×8-inch baking pan with cooking spray and put aside.
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Throw the bananas, oats, chick peas, peanut butter, baking powder, honey, natvia, salt, and almond milk into a food processor and blend until smooth.
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Fold half the chocolate chips into the batter. Pour into prepared pan. Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips on top of bars.
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Bake for 20 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Once cooled, gently cut into 16 bars.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 90.79kcal
- Fat: 2.62g
- Saturated Fat: 0.84g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.19g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.60g
- Carbohydrates: 18.92g
- Fiber: 2.21g
- Sugar: 6.54g
- Protein: 2.71g
- Sodium: 128.68mg
- Calcium: 46.26mg
- Potassium: 144.75mg
- Iron: 0.83mg
- Vitamin A: 5.61µg
- Vitamin C: 6.73mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Blondies
To ensure your banana bread blondies are moist and flavorful, make sure to use ripe bananas. The riper the banana, the sweeter it will be, enhancing the overall taste of your blondies. Additionally, when blending the ingredients, make sure to blend until smooth for a consistent texture throughout the blondies. Lastly, remember not to overcook the blondies. They may seem moist when first taken out of the oven, but they will set and firm as they cool. Overcooking can lead to dry blondies.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Banana Bread Blondies
Use ripe bananas: Using ripe bananas will make it easier to blend and will result in a sweeter flavor.
Use a food processor: Using a food processor will make the blending process quicker and more efficient.
Line the baking pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.
Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the blondies to prevent overcooking, as they can become dry.
Chill before cutting: Allowing the blondies to cool in the refrigerator will make them easier to cut into neat squares.
Substitute Ingredients For Banana Bread Blondies Recipe
rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to rolled oats, providing a similar texture and nutty flavor.
chick peas - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can be used as a substitute for chickpeas, offering a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, providing a similar nutty flavor and creamy consistency.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: A mixture of baking soda and cream of tartar can be used as a substitute for baking powder, providing the necessary leavening agent for the recipe.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, offering a similar level of sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
natvia or sugar of choice - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for natvia or sugar, providing a natural sweetener with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
almond milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a substitute for almond milk, adding a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor to the recipe.
semisweet or dark chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can be used as a substitute for chocolate chips, providing a rich, intense chocolate flavor and added crunch to the blondies.
Creative Ways to Serve Banana Bread Blondies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the banana bread blondies, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Consider using a combination of geometric shapes and organic elements to create a balanced and sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating a skillfully executed drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on the plate. This artistic touch adds a touch of finesse to the overall presentation.
Garnish with fresh fruits: Introduce a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the plate with thinly sliced strawberries or kiwi. The vibrant hues of the fruits will complement the flavors of the banana bread blondies and add a visually striking element to the presentation.
Utilize edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by delicately placing edible flowers, such as lavender or rose petals, on the plate. The addition of these floral accents adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the overall plating.
Incorporate a dusting of powdered sugar: Before serving, delicately dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar. This subtle addition adds a touch of sophistication and creates a visually captivating presentation.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the banana bread blondies in a symmetrical pattern on the plate, paying attention to precision and balance. This meticulous arrangement showcases attention to detail and elevates the overall visual impact of the dish.
Use minimalist plating: Embrace a minimalist approach by focusing on clean lines and strategic negative space on the plate. This modern presentation style highlights the beauty of the banana bread blondies while exuding a sense of refinement and sophistication.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Blondies
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It's great for creating smooth batters and doughs.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and ensuring they are evenly mixed. It's a basic tool for baking and cooking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Banana Bread Blondies
Allow the banana bread blondies to cool completely before storing them. This will prevent condensation from forming and making them soggy.
Once cooled, place the blondies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. This will help maintain their moisture and prevent them from drying out.
Store the blondies at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To freeze the banana bread blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen blondies can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the blondies at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
If you prefer a slightly warm blondie, you can microwave a frozen or refrigerated blondie for a few seconds before serving. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry or tough.
For optimal freshness and flavor, it's best to consume the banana bread blondies within a week of baking, whether storing them at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
How To Reheat Leftover Banana Bread Blondies
The best way to reheat leftover banana bread blondies is to wrap them individually in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method helps to retain their moisture and texture while warming them up evenly.
Another option is to microwave the blondies for a quick and easy reheat. Place the desired number of blondies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds per blondie. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause them to become tough or rubbery.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey interior, try reheating the banana bread blondies in a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place the blondies on a small baking sheet, and heat them for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover blondies. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the blondies in the basket, and heat them for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. This method is quick and helps to restore some of the original texture of the blondies.
For a softer, more delicate texture, try steaming the banana bread blondies. Place the blondies in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water, cover the pot, and steam them for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and soft. This method helps to keep the blondies moist and tender without drying them out or making them crispy.
Interesting Trivia About Banana Bread Blondies
Banana bread blondies are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional blondies. They are packed with fiber from the rolled oats and chickpeas, and the natural sweetness of the bananas and honey makes them a guilt-free treat. These blondies are also a great way to use up ripe bananas and are perfect for a quick and easy snack or dessert. Plus, they can be easily customized with different add-ins such as nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter. Enjoy these blondies as a nutritious and satisfying option for your sweet cravings!
Is Making Banana Bread Blondies at Home Cost-Effective?
This banana bread blondies recipe is incredibly cost-effective for a household. With simple, affordable ingredients like rolled oats, chickpeas, and bananas, it offers a budget-friendly option for a delicious treat. The use of pantry staples and minimal need for specialty items makes it an economical choice. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, making it a highly affordable option. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 9, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delightful taste.
Are Banana Bread Blondies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This banana bread blondie recipe has several healthy ingredients, such as ripe bananas, rolled oats, chickpeas, and almond milk. These ingredients provide fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. However, the recipe also includes some less healthy components, like peanut butter, honey, and chocolate chips, which add saturated fat and sugar to the dish.
While the overall recipe is not entirely unhealthy, there are some modifications that could be made to improve its nutritional value:
- Replace the peanut butter with a natural, unsweetened almond butter or cashew butter to reduce the saturated fat content
- Swap the honey for a natural sweetener like date paste or mashed ripe bananas to decrease the added sugar
- Use a smaller amount of dark chocolate chips with a high cocoa content (70% or above) to minimize the sugar and fat while still providing antioxidants and flavor
- Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to increase the protein and healthy fat content
- Experiment with incorporating other nutrient-dense ingredients, like ground flaxseed, chia seeds, or grated zucchini, to boost the fiber and vitamin content of the blondies
Editor's Opinion on This Blondie Recipe
The banana bread blondies recipe is a unique and innovative twist on traditional blondies. The use of bananas and chickpeas adds a nutritious element, while the combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips provides a delightful flavor contrast. The recipe's simplicity and use of wholesome ingredients make it a healthy and satisfying treat. The moist and fudgy texture of the blondies, along with the natural sweetness from the bananas and honey, creates a delightful indulgence. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and guilt-free option for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while maintaining a balanced diet.
Enhance Your Banana Bread Blondies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizers and Entrées to Serve with Blondies
Why trust this Banana Bread Blondies Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional banana bread, incorporating chickpeas for added protein and fiber. The use of rolled oats and peanut butter provides a wholesome, nutrient-dense base. The inclusion of ripe bananas and honey ensures natural sweetness, while dark chocolate chips add a delightful touch of indulgence. The blend of these wholesome ingredients promises a delectable treat that's both satisfying and nutritious.
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