Step 1

Preheat the oven to 360°F (182°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy release.

Step 2

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a handheld mixer), blend the melted butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup on medium speed until well combined and slightly glossy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and toasted walnuts, if using. Stir to ensure the leavening agents and spice are evenly dispersed.

Step 4

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula or mixer on low speed. Mix just until no visible streaks of flour remain. Avoid over-mixing to preserve the blondies’ chewy texture.

Step 5

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the surface with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean or with moist crumbs. Edges should be set and golden.

Step 6

While the blondies are baking, whisk the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice in a bowl until a smooth, pourable glaze forms. If needed, add a teaspoon of milk to adjust the consistency.

Step 7

Once removed from the oven, immediately drizzle the glaze over the warm blondies. Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.