Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This moist, flavorful bread combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgence of chocolate chips, creating a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re looking for a quick way to use up overripe bananas or simply craving something sweet, this recipe has got you covered. It’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect cozy moment.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few pantry staples like ripe bananas, sugar, flour, eggs, and, of course, chocolate chips. You’ll love how simple the process is, whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner.
Second, it’s a versatile recipe that allows you to adjust the sweetness, texture, and add-ins to suit your preferences. You can opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a unique twist.
Finally, the banana bread is irresistibly moist and tender. Thanks to the bananas, the bread stays soft and fresh for days, making it an ideal make-ahead treat. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra fruit while satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this banana bread will become a regular in your baking rotation.
Ingredients List
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 190mg
Recipe Tips
- Banana Ripeness: Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more moist your bread will be.
- Mixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to avoid dense bread.
- Chocolate Chips: For a melt-in-your-mouth texture, fold the chocolate chips into the batter at the very end to prevent them from melting too much during mixing.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking, and for easy removal.
- Baking Time: Check the bread for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is done.
Make-Ahead Tips
Banana bread is an ideal make-ahead treat. If you want to bake it in advance, simply prepare the bread and let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. You can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze them. When ready to enjoy, just pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds, or thaw it on the counter. This is a great option for meal prep or for gifting.
Detailed Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients that are at room temperature ensures a smoother batter and better incorporation. This is especially true for the eggs and butter. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to seize up, leading to a denser texture.
- Add-ins and Variations: Customize your banana bread by adding extras like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar slightly, but be aware it may affect the bread’s texture.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling: Let your banana bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing it. This gives the structure time to set, making it easier to cut and preventing it from falling apart.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!