Introduction
Chocolate banana bread is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or just indulging your sweet tooth, this delightful treat pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. It’s a beloved recipe that brings the warmth of home baking into your kitchen, making it a go-to for snacks, breakfast, or a cozy dessert.
Why you’ll love this dish
What sets this chocolate banana bread apart from the rest? For starters, it is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. This recipe is also budget-friendly, allowing you to create a scrumptious loaf without breaking the bank. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet Sunday afternoon, it’s a fantastic way to involve kids in the kitchen, too.
"This chocolate banana bread is simply the best! The chocolate makes it so decadent, and I love that I can whip it up in no time!"
How this recipe comes together
Making chocolate banana bread is a straightforward process that will leave you with a deliciously moist cake. You’ll begin by mashing ripe bananas, which not only sweetens the bread but also keeps it soft. Then, you’ll mix the wet ingredients before combining them with the dry ingredients, ensuring a tender loaf that won’t require any special skills or equipment. Finally, a generous amount of chocolate chips is folded in to enhance the rich chocolate flavor.
What you’ll need
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Feel free to swap ingredients based on dietary preferences: you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option or replace chocolate chips with nuts if you’re looking for a different texture.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until combined.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
This chocolate banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further. Consider serving it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a breakfast treat, try toasting a slice and slathering it with peanut butter or Nutella. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a beautiful finish when serving for a brunch gathering.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your chocolate banana bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the bread for up to three months; just make sure it’s well-wrapped. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Pro chef tips
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter – a few lumps are okay for a tender crumb.
- For added flavor, try mixing in a teaspoon of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate taste.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add a swirl of peanut butter or nut butter into the batter before baking.
Flavor swaps
Get creative with your chocolate banana bread! You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or flavored chocolate chips. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt in place of butter. Add-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a hint of cinnamon can provide delightful variations to suit your taste.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make chocolate banana bread?
From start to finish, expect to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including baking time.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them, drain excess liquid, and mash before mixing into the batter.
Is chocolate banana bread suitable for freezing?
Yes! It freezes well. Just wrap it tightly, and it will stay fresh for up to three months.
Chocolate Banana Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pieces ripe bananas, mashed Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- 1/2 cup melted butter Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark) Feel free to try white chocolate or flavored chocolate chips.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until combined.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.