Banana Walnut Blondies

Banana Walnut Blondies

When I first pulled these out of the oven, I was sure I’d have to title this recipe “Banana Cake” as they looked far puffier than a good blondie should be. But don’t over-bake them and allow them to truly cool completely before serving and they’ll resemble the best of both worlds: a slightly cakey blondie.

Inspired by: Short & Sweet

Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for the pan
8 ounces white chocolate, broken into large pieces
2 ripe bananas, peeled and diced
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup natural cane sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 3/4 cup einkorn flour (or spelt or all-purpose flour)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup walnut pieces
3/4 cup / about 4 ounces dark chocolate chips

Instructions

Butter an 8-inch square pan. Preheat the oven to 375 F.

In a small saucepan, heat the butter and white chocolate over low heat until combined — stir occasionally to prevent burning. Scrape the mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or feel free to use a bowl with electric beaters). Add the banana pieces, vanilla, and natural sugar and beat until just combined. Stop the mixer and add the egg. Continue beating until smooth.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt and baking powder. With the mixer running, add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three rounds, being careful not to over-mix. Once combined into an even batter, fold in the walnut pieces and chocolate chips and spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the middle no longer wiggles. Let cool for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving. Store leftovers at room temperature, covered, for 2-3 days.