If you’re looking for a comforting treat that combines the rich, deep flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, this Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly moist, chocolaty, and filled with melty chocolate chips, it’s a versatile baked good that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into something truly memorable and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe plays a crucial role in creating the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and color. Simple yet essential, these ingredients come together to give you a loaf that’s tender, rich, and bursting with chocolatey goodness.
- Ripe bananas: Using 2–3 ripe bananas gives natural sweetness and moisture that keeps the bread tender.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and a delicate crumb texture.
- Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with browning for a lovely crust.
- Brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses flavor and extra moisture.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together for structure and a soft crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and complements the chocolate and banana.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread’s structure, ensuring it’s sturdy but tender.
- Cocoa powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and a dark, inviting color.
- Baking soda: Acts as the leavening agent for a light, airy texture.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes.
- Chocolate chips: Mixed in and sprinkled on top for pockets of melty chocolate perfection.
How to Make Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. For easy removal and cleaner slices, line the pan with parchment paper. This simple step will save you from frustrating moments later on.
Step 2: Mash and Mix
Take your ripe bananas and mash them well in a large mixing bowl until smooth. The natural sugars in ripe bananas are the secret to moistness. Then add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, whisking everything together until the mixture is silky and uniform.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting not only avoids lumps but also ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and cocoa powder, which is key to a consistent texture in the bread.
Step 4: Make the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, so stop once you don’t see any flour. Next, gently fold in the chocolate chips to spread that melty chocolate delight throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared loaf pan and sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top for a beautiful, irresistible finish. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. This ensures your bread stays soft and not dry.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread set properly so your slices hold together beautifully without crumbling.
How to Serve Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up your Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe, try topping slices with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate. A smear of fresh butter or cream cheese adds extra richness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate and banana flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for a delightful dessert. For breakfast, pair it with a cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte to start your day on a delicious note.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not slice the bread into thick slabs and toast them slightly? A touch of cinnamon butter on top elevates the experience. You can also cut it into cubes and serve it as part of a dessert board with nuts, fruit, and cheese for a fun gathering centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, keep your Chocolate Banana Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for quick snacks or dessert fixes.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this treat later, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months this way. Just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a warm slice anytime.
Reheating
To bring your Chocolate Banana Bread back to its fresh-baked glory, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This melts the chocolate chips and revives the softness, making every bite as delightful as on day one.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots are ideal because they are sweeter and softer, making your Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe more flavorful and moist.
What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor that won’t add extra sweetness. Dutch-processed cocoa can also work but expect a slightly different taste and color.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can replace melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable or canola oil. It will still keep the bread moist but with a slightly different texture and flavor.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. Avoid overbaking to keep it tender.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even shredded coconut make great additions. Just fold them in at the same step where you add the chocolate chips.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe is a wonderful way to turn everyday ingredients into a truly comforting and delicious loaf that your family and friends will rave about. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying something new, this recipe invites you to enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade baked goodness. Go ahead, bake a loaf today and share the magic!
Print
Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and moist Chocolate Banana Bread that combines ripe bananas with cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a decadent twist on the classic banana bread. Perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack, this loaf is easy to make and sure to delight chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2–3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread after baking.
- Mash and Mix: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all wet ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and cocoa, preventing lumps.
- Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb. Fold in the chocolate chips carefully so they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for extra chocolate flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up. Then transfer it onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing and serving to enhance flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure the bread remains moist and tender.
- If you don’t have parchment paper, greasing the pan well will prevent sticking.
- You can substitute the chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruit if preferred.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
