Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Why Make This Recipe
Banana bread is a beloved classic, and when you add chocolate chips, it becomes an even more delightful treat. You can enjoy it as a breakfast snack, a sweet dessert, or a comforting afternoon treat. This recipe is simple and perfect for using up ripe bananas, making it a great way to avoid waste. Plus, chocolate makes everything better!
How to Make Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ cup chopped walnuts
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if you’re using it).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined—don’t overmix!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if you’re using them).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips over it for a nice finish.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or has just a few moist crumbs.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
You can serve banana bread warm or at room temperature. Slice it and enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for extra flavor. It’s also delicious with a cup of coffee or tea.
How to Store Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
To store banana bread, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well and place it in an airtight container.
Tips to Make Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Adjust the amount of chocolate chips to your taste—add more for an extra chocolatey loaf!
- Feel free to add mix-ins like nuts, coconut, or dried fruit for different flavors.
Variation
You can easily change up this recipe by adding spices like nutmeg or other flavors like almond extract instead of vanilla. If you want a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour or replacing some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them before mashing, and they’ll blend easily into the batter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If there’s wet batter, continue baking and check every few minutes.
Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This banana bread recipe is a delightful treat enhanced with chocolate chips, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined—don’t overmix!
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips over it for a nice finish.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or has just a few moist crumbs.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. Adjust the chocolate chips as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
