Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the ultimate comfort bake, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgence of melty chocolate chips. This recipe yields a soft, tender loaf with a rich banana flavor that is perfectly complemented by bursts of chocolate in every bite. Unlike dry or crumbly versions, this banana bread stays moist thanks to the use of ripe bananas, butter, and just the right balance of ingredients. It is quick to prepare, beginner-friendly, and a perfect way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Ideal for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you enjoy it warm with a pat of butter, toasted with coffee, or simply as a grab-and-go treat, this banana bread is a timeless favorite that will never disappoint.
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Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – A Classic Treat with a Sweet Twist
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and tender banana bread loaded with chocolate chips for a sweet, comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash ripe bananas. Stir in melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few melted chocolate streaks are fine).
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Overripe bananas give the best flavor and sweetness.
- Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ripe bananas – Provide natural sweetness, moisture, and the signature flavor of banana bread.
All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the bread while keeping it soft and tender.
Baking soda – Helps the loaf rise properly, ensuring a light and airy texture.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the banana and chocolate flavors.
Butter – Adds richness and moisture, giving the bread a soft crumb.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread while contributing to its moistness.
Brown sugar – Provides extra depth of flavor and a slight caramel note.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread’s structure.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
Chocolate chips – The star addition, adding pockets of melty sweetness throughout the loaf.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir in the mashed bananas until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—do not overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 1 standard loaf, serving about 10 slices. Preparation takes 15 minutes, and baking requires 55–65 minutes. Allow an additional 15 minutes for cooling before slicing.
Storage/reheating
Store the banana bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy warm, microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds or toast lightly for extra flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Nutty banana bread – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and nuttiness.
Double chocolate – Stir in cocoa powder for a rich, chocolate-infused loaf.
Peanut butter swirl – Swirl in a few spoonfuls of peanut butter before baking for a nutty twist.
Coconut addition – Fold in shredded coconut for tropical flair.
Berry boost – Add fresh or dried berries for extra sweetness and color.
Mini loaves or muffins – Bake the batter in mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual servings.
Gluten-free version – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Cinnamon spice – Mix in ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and depth.
Vegan alternative – Use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Healthier option – Reduce sugar and swap part of the flour for whole wheat flour or oat flour.
FAQs
How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?
They should be very ripe, with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw them first and drain excess liquid before using.
Why is my banana bread dense?
Overmixing the batter can make it dense—stir only until combined.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but reducing too much may affect sweetness and texture.
What type of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet chips balance the sweetness, but milk or dark chocolate can also be used.
Can I make this recipe into muffins?
Yes, bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes in a muffin tin.
Conclusion
Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a timeless recipe that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence. With its tender crumb, rich banana flavor, and delightful bursts of chocolate, it is a treat that appeals to all ages and occasions. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with creative variations, this recipe guarantees a soft, flavorful loaf every time. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, reheated with butter, or tucked into a lunchbox—it’s a deliciously versatile bake you’ll return to again and again.
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