Chocolate Banana Bread
Why Make This Recipe
Chocolate Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This recipe is also gluten-free and can be made with simple ingredients you may already have at home. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this bread is sure to please everyone’s taste buds.
How to Make Chocolate Banana Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups gluten-free flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup protein powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
- Add honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- In another bowl, combine gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and protein powder if using.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
How to Serve Chocolate Banana Bread
You can enjoy Chocolate Banana Bread warm or at room temperature. It’s great on its own, but you can also spread some nut butter or a little butter on a slice for added flavor. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
How to Store Chocolate Banana Bread
To store your Chocolate Banana Bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature for about 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Just slice it first and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Chocolate Banana Bread
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined for a moist bread.
- Experiment with different add-ins like nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.
- If you want a sweeter bread, feel free to add a bit more honey or maple syrup.
Variation
For a nutty twist, you can add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. You can also substitute the cocoa powder with carob powder for a different flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour if you’re not concerned about gluten.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can replace honey with maple syrup and use a flax egg instead of eggs if you want a vegan version.
How can I tell when the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is done. If not, let it bake a little longer and check again.

Chocolate Banana Bread
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful gluten-free treat combining chocolate and ripe bananas, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups gluten-free flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup protein powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas.
- Add honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- In another bowl, combine gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and protein powder if using.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. Wrap the bread to store it at room temperature for about 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American