Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that combines the rich taste of ripe bananas with gooey chocolate chips. This easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The combination of sweet bananas and melty chocolate makes this a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super moist and fluffy – The bananas keep the bread soft and tender.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Perfectly sweet – The balance of bananas and chocolate is just right.
- Great for using ripe bananas – A perfect way to use up overripe bananas.
- Customizable – Add nuts, cinnamon, or even a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ripe bananas (mashed)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Butter (melted)
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Chocolate chips
- Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix mashed bananas, melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Gently mix in chocolate chips and nuts if using.
- Bake: Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in ¼ cup of peanut butter before baking.
- Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Double Chocolate: Mix in cocoa powder for an even richer chocolate taste.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mashing.
Why is my banana bread dry?
Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
What’s the best way to mash bananas?
Use a fork or potato masher for best results. Overripe bananas mash easily.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes! Reduce the sugar slightly or use honey or maple syrup as a substitute.
Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?
Underbaking or overmixing can cause sinking. Ensure your baking soda and powder are fresh.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the bread may be denser. A 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour works well.
Can I add extra chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Add an extra ¼ cup for even more chocolatey goodness.
How do I keep my banana bread moist?
Store it tightly wrapped at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the ultimate combination of sweet bananas and rich chocolate, making it a comforting and delicious homemade treat. With simple ingredients and endless variations, this easy recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
PrintChocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is moist, fluffy, and loaded with melty chocolate chips! It’s the perfect way to use up ripe bananas and makes a delicious breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
- Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Combine & Add Chocolate Chips:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture (don’t overmix!).
- Gently fold in ¾ cup chocolate chips.
5. Bake the Banana Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for a melty finish.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve:
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- For extra moist bread, use ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of some butter.
- Want a crunch? Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Storage: Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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