Vegan Banana Nut Blondies Recipe

If you love soft, chewy, and nutty desserts, these Vegan Banana Nut Blondies are a must-try! Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they’re not only delicious but also gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a post-workout treat, or a quick dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe has you covered.

What makes these blondies special? First, they use ripe bananas for natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars. Plus, nut butter and almond flour create a rich, moist texture, making every bite irresistibly good. And, of course, crunchy walnuts or pecans add the perfect contrast.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through every step—from mixing the ingredients to baking and serving. Along the way, you’ll also find pro tips to make sure your blondies turn out perfectly golden and delicious.

So, if you’re ready to whip up a batch of these healthy and satisfying blondies, let’s get started!

PART 1: What Are Vegan Banana Nut Blondies?

Blondies vs. Brownies: What’s the Difference?

Blondies are often described as the vanilla or caramel-flavored cousin of brownies. While brownies rely on cocoa or melted chocolate for their deep, rich taste, blondies have a buttery, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor. The key ingredients in classic blondies include butter, eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla—but in this vegan version, we replace these with plant-based alternatives for a delicious, dairy-free treat.

The Role of Bananas in Blondies

Bananas are a key ingredient in vegan baking, offering both natural sweetness and moisture. In these blondies, mashed bananas replace eggs, helping to bind the batter together while also adding a soft, chewy texture. The result? A perfectly moist and slightly dense blondie that melts in your mouth!

Why Add Nuts?

Nuts like walnuts or pecans provide an amazing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the blondies. They also bring a rich, nutty flavor and a boost of healthy fats and protein—making these treats not only delicious but also nutritious.

PART 2: Key Ingredients for Vegan Banana Nut Blondies

To make the perfect vegan banana nut blondies, you’ll need a combination of moisture-rich ingredients, natural sweeteners, and plant-based substitutes. Each ingredient plays a vital role in ensuring these blondies are chewy, flavorful, and completely dairy-free.

1. Bananas – The Star Ingredient

• Why Use Bananas? Bananas add natural sweetness, moisture, and act as a binding agent, replacing eggs in traditional blondie recipes.
• Best Type to Use: Ripe bananas with brown spots are ideal. The riper they are, the sweeter and softer your blondies will be.

2. Coconut Oil or Vegan Butter

• Purpose: Adds richness and moisture, preventing dry blondies.
• Substitutes: You can use applesauce for an oil-free version, but this may slightly change the texture.

3. Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar

• Why It’s Important: These sugars provide a deep, caramel-like flavor that enhances the classic blondie taste.
• Alternative: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used, but they will make the batter slightly wetter.

4. Flour Choices

• All-Purpose Flour: The standard choice for soft, chewy blondies.
• Oat Flour: A great gluten-free alternative that keeps the blondies tender.
• Almond Flour: Adds a slight nuttiness and works well in combination with other flours.

5. Baking Powder & Baking Soda

• These leavening agents help the blondies rise slightly, ensuring they don’t turn out too dense.

6. Vanilla Extract & Cinnamon

• Vanilla: Enhances the sweetness and overall depth of flavor.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and complements the banana flavor beautifully.

7. Chopped Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans)

• Crunch & Texture: Adds a slight crunch to balance the soft texture.
• Optional Additions: You can also add shredded coconut or sunflower seeds for variety.

8. Vegan Chocolate Chips (Optional but Recommended!)

• While not traditional in blondies, adding dairy-free chocolate chips gives these treats a little extra indulgence!

PART 3: How to Make Vegan Banana Nut Blondies (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Pan

Before you start mixing your ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.

Next, line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil. Parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the blondies once they’ve baked.

2: Mash the Bananas

• Peel two ripe bananas and mash them in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
• A few small lumps are okay, as they add texture to the blondies.

3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• Add ½ cup melted coconut oil (or vegan butter) to the mashed bananas.
• Stir in ¾ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar) for natural sweetness.
• Add ¼ cup maple syrup for extra moisture and depth of flavor.
• Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance the taste.

4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free version)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

This step helps evenly distribute the baking agents, ensuring your blondies rise properly.

5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
• Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the blondies dense.

6: Fold in Nuts and Chocolate Chips

• Gently fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• If you love a hint of chocolate, add ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional but highly recommended!).

7: Bake the Blondies

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

8: Cool and Slice

• Let the blondies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps them set properly.
• Cut into squares and enjoy!

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PART 4: Baking Tips & Troubleshooting for Vegan Banana Nut Blondies

Even though this recipe is simple, a few small tweaks can make a big difference in achieving that perfect chewy texture. Here’s what you need to know:

Baking Tips for the Best Blondies

Use Very Ripe Bananas

• Bananas with lots of brown spots add more natural sweetness and moisture. If your bananas aren’t ripe yet, you can bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to soften them.

Measure Ingredients Accurately

• Too much flour = dry, cakey blondies.
• Too little flour = overly gooey blondies that won’t hold their shape.
• Use the spoon-and-level method (spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife) for accuracy.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing creates dense, tough blondies. Stir just until combined—it’s okay if you see a few streaks of flour before folding in the nuts and chocolate.

Line Your Pan with Parchment Paper

• This makes it easier to lift the blondies out of the pan and ensures they don’t stick.

Check for Doneness Properly

• Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re done.
• If the toothpick is wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.
• If it comes out completely dry, they may be overbaked.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

1. Why Are My Blondies Hard?

• Overbaking is the main cause. Remove them from the oven when the center is still slightly soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

1. Why Did My Blondies Turn Out Too Gooey?

• You may have underbaked them. Give them 5 more minutes in the oven, then let them cool completely before slicing.

3. Why Did My Blondies Turn Out Crumbly?

• You may have added too much flour or not enough binding ingredients (bananas or coconut oil).

4. Why Are My Blondies Too Dense?

• Overmixing the batter or using too much sugar can make them heavy. Stir gently and avoid excess sugar.

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With these baking tips and troubleshooting tricks, you’re now ready to bake the best batch of vegan banana nut blondies!

PART 5: Fun Variations & Creative Add-Ins

Want to switch things up and add your own twist to this recipe? Here are some delicious variations to make these blondies even more exciting!

1. Gluten-Free Banana Nut Blondies

If you’re avoiding gluten, simply replace the all-purpose flour with:
Oat flour – Soft and naturally gluten-free.
Almond flour – Adds a nutty flavor and richness.
A gluten-free flour blend – Works as a 1:1 substitute for regular flour.

2. Chocolate Lovers’ Version

For a richer, chocolatey twist:
Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
Use vegan chocolate chunks instead of chips for bigger, melty bites.
Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled blondies for extra indulgence.

3. Coconut Banana Blondies

Love coconut? Try this tropical variation:
Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter.
Replace coconut oil with melted coconut butter for a stronger coconut flavor.
Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before baking.

4. Peanut Butter Banana Blondies

Peanut butter and banana? A match made in heaven!
Swirl ¼ cup creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking.
Replace coconut oil with melted peanut butter for a richer taste.
Add chopped peanuts instead of walnuts for extra crunch.

5. Cinnamon Spice Blondies

Want a warm, spiced version perfect for fall?
Increase the cinnamon to 1 teaspoon.
Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Drizzle with a simple maple glaze (mix maple syrup + powdered sugar) after baking.

6. Espresso Banana Blondies

Need a caffeine kick? Add a little espresso flavor!
✔ Stir in 1 tsp instant espresso powder into the wet ingredients.
✔ Pair with chocolate chips for a mocha-flavored treat.

PART 6: How to Store & Freeze Vegan Banana Nut Blondies

Once you’ve baked your vegan banana nut blondies, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their soft, chewy texture. Here’s how to keep them fresh for days—or even weeks!

Storing at Room Temperature (Best for Short-Term)

Place the blondies in an airtight container.
Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If your kitchen is warm, store them in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming too soft or sticky.

Refrigerating for Longer Freshness

If you want to keep them fresh for up to 7 days, store them in the fridge.
Wrap each blondie individually in parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Allow them to come to room temperature before eating for the best texture.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

✔ These blondies freeze really well and can last for up to 3 months!
✔ To freeze:

• Let them cool completely.
• Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
• Place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
  ✔ When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

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By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your vegan banana nut blondies whenever you crave them!

PART 7: FAQs About Vegan Banana Nut Blondies

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making vegan banana nut blondies.

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With these answers, you’ll be able to make perfect blondies every time!

PART 8: Best Ways to Serve and Enjoy Vegan Banana Nut Blondies

These vegan banana nut blondies are delicious on their own, but you can take them to the next level with creative serving ideas and tasty pairings!

1. Enjoy Them Warm with a Drizzle

✔ Microwave a blondie for 10-15 seconds to make it extra soft and gooey.
✔ Drizzle with maple syrup, melted peanut butter, or vegan caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

2. Serve with Ice Cream

✔ Pair with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla, chocolate, or coconut ice cream for a perfect dessert.
✔ Sprinkle crushed walnuts or chocolate chips on top for extra crunch.

3. Make a Blondie Sundae

✔ Cut a blondie into chunks and layer it with vegan whipped cream and fresh fruit like bananas or strawberries.
✔ Drizzle with melted dark chocolate or almond butter for a decadent treat.

4. Enjoy with a Hot Drink

✔ Pair these blondies with a cup of coffee, tea, or plant-based milk for a cozy snack.
✔ Try a chai latte or golden turmeric milk for a warm, spiced flavor combo.

5. Use Them as a Breakfast Treat

✔ Enjoy blondies in the morning with a smoothie or fresh fruit for a balanced start.
✔ Spread a little almond butter on top for extra protein.

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These serving ideas make your blondies even more versatile—perfect for dessert, a snack, or even breakfast!

PART 9: Final Thoughts on the Best Vegan Banana Nut Blondies Recipe

In the end, these Vegan Banana Nut Blondies prove that you don’t need dairy, eggs, or refined sugar to create a delicious dessert. Not only are they soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a treat you can enjoy without guilt.

If you love banana-based desserts, this recipe is definitely worth trying. Since it requires just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Moreover, the combination of bananas, nut butter, and crunchy walnuts creates an unbeatable flavor and texture.

For the best results, always use ripe bananas, as they add natural sweetness and moisture. Additionally, if you want extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking. Even better, you can customize these blondies by adding vegan chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or a dash of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Whether you’re making them for a quick snack, a family gathering, or a post-workout energy boost, these blondies are sure to impress. So, the next time you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, don’t throw them away—bake a batch of these irresistible blondies instead!