Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich indulgence of chocolate chips. This easy-to-make recipe is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas and create a delicious snack or dessert. The combination of soft banana bread and melty chocolate makes every bite irresistible, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread is a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, with the creamy texture of ripe bananas and the irresistible addition of chocolate chips. It’s easy to make, requiring just one bowl, and is ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert. The bread is soft, moist, and full of flavor, and the chocolate chips add a delightful melty surprise in every slice. Whether you’re a banana bread lover or new to baking, this recipe is sure to please everyone!

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas (mashed)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of mashed bananas.
Combine Wet Ingredients: To the mashed bananas, add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and optional nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean (except for melted chocolate).
Cool and Serve: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once fully cooled.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf (approximately 10-12 slices). Prep time is about 15 minutes, and bake time is 55-65 minutes.

Variations

Peanut Butter Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the wet ingredients for a delicious peanut butter and chocolate combo.
Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxmeal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free butter.
Add Other Mix-ins: Try adding dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or coconut flakes to the batter for a fruity twist.
Whole Wheat Version: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier, heartier loaf.
Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or cloves for a spiced version of this banana bread.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover banana bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours or microwave individual slices.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them lightly for a warm treat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Can I use mini chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips are a great option and will distribute more evenly throughout the bread.

How can I make banana bread without brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with more granulated sugar or use honey or maple syrup. If you use a liquid sweetener, you might need to reduce the amount of other liquids in the recipe slightly.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum, or add 1/2 teaspoon to help with the structure.

Can I make this recipe in a muffin tin instead of a loaf pan?

Yes, this batter can easily be used for muffins. Just fill muffin cups about 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or just craving something sweet, this banana bread delivers on taste, texture, and nostalgia. With its soft, moist crumb and chocolatey goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite recipe in your kitchen. Simple, delicious, and always comforting, this bread is perfect for any time of day!