Quick Description:
This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the perfect combination of sweet, ripe bananas and rich chocolate chips, baked into a soft and fluffy loaf. Whether as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, this bread is sure to satisfy any craving!
Servings & Timing:
- Servings: 10 slices
-
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Ingredients List:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Additional Notes:
- Banana ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be! Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruits (raisins or cranberries) for extra texture and flavor.
- Freezing: You can freeze the loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Dietary Info:
- High-Protein: Not a high-protein recipe unless you add extra protein powder or nuts.
- Keto: Not keto (contains flour and sugar).
- Gluten-Free: Can be made gluten-free with a flour substitute.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter for a dairy-free option.
- Vegetarian: Yes
Brief Introduction:
This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the perfect comfort food—rich, moist, and packed with the sweetness of bananas and chocolate. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or a light dessert, this bread will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Flavor Tips & Variations:
- Nutty Version: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or extra cinnamon to enhance the flavor and give it a cozy, warm note.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Butter: Use coconut oil or vegetable oil for a different fat, or make it dairy-free by using vegan butter.
- Brown Sugar: You can use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a healthier alternative.
- Flour: Swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:
- Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl in some peanut butter or almond butter into the batter for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Ice Cream Topping: Serve a warm slice of banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage & Make-Ahead:
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Make-Ahead: This bread can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or frozen for future use. It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
