If you love sandwiches that offer a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and comforting flavors, the Grilled Blueberry & Banana Bread Granola Butter Sandwich is a must-try. This creative twist on the classic grilled sandwich combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and juicy blueberries with the hearty, nostalgic flavor of banana bread, plus the satisfying crunch of granola butter. The result is a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack any time of day.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes this sandwich so special, how to prepare it with simple ingredients, and offer tips on presentation, variations, and nutritional insights to inspire your next delicious creation.
Why This Sandwich Stands Out
This sandwich is an inventive fusion of textures and flavors:
- Sweet & Fruity: The combination of banana and blueberry is a timeless classic, naturally sweet and bursting with freshness.
- Crunchy & Buttery: Granola butter—a creamy spread mixed with crunchy granola—adds a delightful texture contrast and a touch of indulgence.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: Using banana bread as the base instead of traditional sandwich bread adds moistness and rich banana flavor that elevates every bite.
- Grilled to Perfection: The grilling process melts the butter, caramelizes the banana bread, and warms the fruit filling, making the sandwich irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 slices of banana bread (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- ½ cup fresh blueberries
- ¼ cup granola
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese or nut butter (optional, for layering)
- Honey or maple syrup for drizzling (optional)
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 5–7 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the granola butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the granola until well combined. This creates a crunchy, creamy spread that will toast beautifully.
2. Assemble the sandwiches
Spread a generous layer of granola butter on one side of each banana bread slice. On two slices, layer banana slices and fresh blueberries. If using, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or nut butter underneath the fruit for added creaminess.
3. Close the sandwiches
Place the other banana bread slices on top, granola butter side down, to form sandwiches.
4. Grill
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and grill for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until the banana bread is golden brown and slightly crispy, and the fruit is warmed through.
5. Serve
Remove sandwiches from the skillet and let cool slightly. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired. Slice in half and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the type of banana bread and spreads used.
Presentation and Serving Tips
- Cut diagonally to showcase the colorful fruit filling inside.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish.
- Serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt on the side to round out your meal.
- Perfect for brunch: Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or a fresh smoothie.
Variations and Customizations
- Swap the fruit: Use strawberries, raspberries, or peaches instead of blueberries and bananas.
- Nutty twist: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the granola butter for extra crunch.
- Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and nut butters instead of cream cheese.
- Extra indulgence: Add a few chocolate chips inside before grilling for a gooey surprise.
Why You’ll Love This Sandwich
This Grilled Blueberry & Banana Bread Granola Butter Sandwich is the perfect combination of indulgence and wholesome goodness. It’s simple enough for a quick breakfast, yet special enough to impress brunch guests or treat yourself on a relaxing weekend. The crunchy granola butter contrasts beautifully with the soft banana bread and juicy fruit, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.
It’s also a fantastic way to elevate banana bread beyond the usual slice and turn everyday ingredients into a unique, memorable dish.