Name: Chunky Monkey Blondies: Fudgy Banana Bliss in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted; can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark brown sugar works, but white sugar alters flavor.); 1 Large Egg (For a vegan option, use 1/4 cup applesauce or a flax egg.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla offers a higher quality taste.); 2 large Ripe Bananas (Overripe or thawed frozen bananas are preferred.); 1 cup Peanut Butter (Creamy or chunky; can be swapped with almond or sunflower butter.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Chunks (Dark chocolate can be used for a stronger flavor.); 1/2 cup Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (Diced; substitute with chopped chocolate or other candies if needed.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Use sea salt or kosher salt, and omit if using salted butter.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Critical for achieving the right rise.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour or Gluten-Free Flour (Swap in gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.)

As the timer ticked down to the last few moments of baking, my kitchen filled with the heavenly scent of sweet bananas and melting chocolate. If you’re looking for a deliciously easy dessert, let me introduce you to my Chunky Monkey Blondies. These delightful bars combine ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. What I love most? They’re ready in under 40 minutes and can even double as a quick breakfast when the morning rush hits! So, if you’re ready to indulge in a fudgy, satisfying snack that’s sure to please everyone, you won’t want to miss this recipe. Curious about how to whip them up in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!

Why are Chunky Monkey Blondies a must-try?

Deliciously Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, these blondies come together in under 40 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying treat.

Heavenly Flavor Combination: The sweet, ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate create a flavor explosion that will leave everyone craving more.

Flexible Ingredients: Easily customize the recipe by using gluten-free flour or swapping in your favorite nut butters.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, they are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.

Breakfast-Friendly: Why not indulge in a sweet start? These blondies can double as a delightful breakfast option when you’re in a hurry!

Ingredients
## Chunky Monkey Blondies Ingredients

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel; light or dark brown sugar works well, but white sugar alters flavor.
Large Egg – Serves as a binding agent for structure; for a vegan option, use 1/4 cup applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; pure vanilla offers a higher quality taste, while imitation is budget-friendly.
Ripe Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; overripe bananas are preferred, or use thawed frozen bananas.
Peanut Butter (Creamy or Chunky) – Adds flavor and texture; can be swapped with almond or sunflower butter.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Chunks – Brings rich chocolatey goodness; dark chocolate can give a stronger flavor.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – A delightful treat within the blondies; substitute with chopped chocolate or other candies if needed.
Salt – Enhances flavor; use sea salt or kosher salt, and omit if using salted butter.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; critical for achieving the right rise.
All-Purpose Flour or Gluten-Free Flour – Provides structure; swap in gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option or consider almond flour for texture variation.

These Chunky Monkey Blondies are not just dessert bars; they’re an experience, waiting to delight taste buds and warm hearts.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chunky Monkey Blondies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly spray the lining with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your Chunky Monkey Blondies come out easily. This preparation step is crucial for achieving that perfect fudgy texture without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and brown sugar until well combined and glossy, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and homogenous, creating a delightful foundation for your blondies. This step embeds that caramel sweetness right into your batter, setting the stage for a luscious treat.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in the large egg, vanilla extract, creamy peanut butter, and mashed ripe bananas. Stir until everything is smooth and seamlessly blended, taking about 1-3 minutes. The vibrant flavors meld together beautifully, allowing the peanut butter and bananas to compliment each other, which is essential for the luscious taste of the Chunky Monkey Blondies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the salt, baking soda, and flour into your mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be sure not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser texture than desired. The batter will begin to thicken, and small streaks of flour should still be visible, ensuring an airy yet fudgy interior once baked.

Step 5: Fold in Chunky Goodness
Carefully fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chunks and diced Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into the batter until evenly distributed. This step adds delightful bursts of chocolate and peanut butter that enrich the flavor of your blondies. The chunky mix-ins are what make these blondies truly irresistible and extra fun!

Step 6: Spread into Baking Dish
Transfer the blondie batter into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. It’s important to ensure the batter is level so that it bakes evenly and develops that beautifully golden crust. Feel free to tap the dish lightly on the counter to settle the batter.

Step 7: Optional Chocolate Topping
If you’d like to elevate your Chunky Monkey Blondies even further, sprinkle any extra chocolate chips on top before baking. This additional layer of chocolate will melt beautifully, creating a rich chocolatey finish that is simply delightful. It’s just an extra touch that makes these bars even more indulgent.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the top looks set. Keep an eye on the blondies towards the end; they should be slightly soft in the center but not wet. Avoid overbaking to maintain that fudgy, chewy texture we all love.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into squares, and your Chunky Monkey Blondies are ready to serve, perfect for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Chunky Monkey Blondies

Don’t Overbake: To maintain that beloved fudgy texture, check your blondies a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid drying them out.
Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are well-ripened for maximum sweetness and moisture. Overripe bananas not only taste better but also blend seamlessly into the batter.
Mix-in Flexibility: Feel free to add chopped nuts for texture or substitute the chocolate chunks with your favorite candies—creativity is key in making these Chunky Monkey Blondies your own!
Proper Cooling: Allow the blondies to cool completely before cutting. This helps them firm up, making them easier to slice into perfect squares without crumbling.
Storage Tips: For freshness, store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them to extend shelf life.

How to Store and Freeze Chunky Monkey Blondies

Room Temperature: Store your Chunky Monkey Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, keep the blondies in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring a tasty treat is always on hand.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their fudgy goodness!

Chunky Monkey Blondies: Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative and make these Chunky Monkey Blondies your own with these delightful variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil to cater to dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor. The tropical hint adds a nice twist!
Nut-Free Option: Swap out peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to create a nut-free treat that’s just as delicious and forgiving for allergies. It’ll still be full of flavor!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy these fudgy delights. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Extra Chocolate: Go for an indulgent experience by adding dark chocolate chunks instead of semi-sweet, intensifying the chocolatey goodness in each bite. It’ll satisfy the chocolate lovers in your life!
Fruity Twist: Incorporate a handful of chopped dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for an added burst of flavor and texture—making each bite unexpected and delightful.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spicy note that pairs beautifully with the sweet and rich flavors. This surprising twist might just become a new favorite!
Chunky Mix-ins: Throw in a mix of nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, complementing the creamy peanut butter and bananas beautifully. The added texture makes every bite an adventure!
Breakfast Version: Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup or yogurt on top and you’ve got a beautiful breakfast option that’s a little more elevated. It’s a delicious way to start your day!

By trying out these variations, you can keep your home baking exciting and customize your Chunky Monkey Blondies to suit any taste! For more ideas, check out easy gluten-free desserts or consider baking up a batch of chocolate chip cookies for another delightful treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Chunky Monkey Blondies are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, ensuring everything stays fresh. Additionally, you can mash the ripe bananas and refrigerate them 24 hours ahead, which helps prevent browning and saves time when you’re ready to bake. When you’re prepared to enjoy these fudgy delights, simply combine your prepped dry mix with the wet ingredients and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, gooey blondies ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Chunky Monkey Blondies?

Elevate your dessert experience with perfect pairings that enhance the delightful flavors of these fudgy, banana-infused treats.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, gooey blondies, making each bite divine. The creaminess melts into the rich chocolate, creating an indulgent treat.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A touch of warm caramel sauce cascaded over the blondies enhances their sweetness, creating a luxurious experience that’s hard to resist. It adds a delightful sticky texture that compliments the chocolate and banana beautifully.
Fresh Berries: A serving of juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries brightens the palate, providing a refreshing acidity that balances the rich flavors of the blondies. The burst of freshness enhances the overall taste experience.
Nutty Coffee: Pair with a warm cup of nutty coffee or a mocha for a cozy treat. The café aroma complements the deep chocolate and peanut butter notes, perfect for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance, creating a fluffy contrast to the dense, fudgy texture of the blondies. It’s like a cloud of sweetness on your plate!
Chocolate Milkshake: For dessert lovers, a thick chocolate milkshake makes for an indulgent pairing, doubling down on the flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, and creating a childhood flashback of sweet nostalgia.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast to the soft, fudgy blondies. The added texture and nutty flavor make each bite an adventure.
Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes sprinkled on top provide an aromatic and tropical twist, bringing a whole new layer of flavor and texture to your dessert experience. It evokes warm beach vibes and pure bliss with every bite!

Chunky Monkey Blondies Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for Chunky Monkey Blondies?
Absolutely use ripe bananas for this recipe! Overripe bananas, which have brown spots and feel soft, are perfect as they add natural sweetness and moisture to your blondies. If you have frozen bananas, just thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

How should I store my Chunky Monkey Blondies?
For optimal freshness, store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure they’re sealed well to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze Chunky Monkey Blondies?
Yes! To freeze, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap and place them all in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that soft, fudgy texture.

What if my Chunky Monkey Blondies are too dry?
If your blondies end up too dry, it might be from overbaking! To ensure a fudgy consistency, check them a few minutes early. The center should be slightly soft but set. You can also pair the blondies with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce to add moisture back.

Are Chunky Monkey Blondies safe for those with nut allergies?
If you’re making these blondies for someone with nut allergies, it’s best to skip the peanut butter altogether or use sun butter as a safe alternative. Be sure to also check any chocolate products used, as they may contain traces of nuts.

How long can I refrigerate Chunky Monkey Blondies?
You can refrigerate your Chunky Monkey Blondies for up to a week. Store them in a sealed container to keep them fresh. They’re perfect for a quick snack or dessert throughout the week!