Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is one of those timeless, feel-good recipes that never disappoints. It’s moist, fluffy, and full of rich banana flavor, punctuated by melty pockets of chocolate in every bite. Perfectly sweet and aromatic, it’s a wonderful way to use up overripe bananas — turning them into something warm, nostalgic, and irresistible.

Whether served for breakfast, as a midday snack, or as dessert, this banana bread is pure comfort. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with a cozy aroma of bananas, butter, and vanilla — a smell that instantly makes everyone smile.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly balances moist texture, rich banana flavor, and gooey chocolate goodness.

Unlike store-bought versions that can be too dry or overly sweet, this homemade loaf is tender, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Deliciously moist: The ripe bananas ensure a soft, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• Chocolate heaven: Every bite has gooey chocolate chips that elevate the flavor.
• Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy — just wholesome, everyday items.
• Freezer-friendly: Great to bake ahead for busy mornings or sweet cravings.
• Guaranteed crowd-pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings

• Makes 1 loaf (8–10 slices)

Calories

• Approximately 260–280 kcal per slice

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

• 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional but recommended)
• 3 medium ripe bananas (about 1 ¼ cups mashed)
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar (or a mix of white and brown)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) plain yogurt or sour cream (for moisture)
• ¾ cup (130 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix dry ingredients in one bowl.
2. Mash bananas and combine with wet ingredients in another.
3. Stir wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour into a loaf pan and bake until golden and set.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Cinnamon (if using)

Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Whisk in melted butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and yogurt (or sour cream).
3. Stir until fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

• Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
• Gently fold with a spatula until just combined — do not overmix (a few streaks of flour are okay).

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

• Fold in ¾ cup of chocolate chips evenly.
• Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
• Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for a bakery-style finish.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
• If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
• Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve

Serve slices warm or at room temperature, plain or with toppings like:

• A pat of butter or peanut butter
• A drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert

It pairs beautifully with coffee, milk, or tea — making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use overripe bananas: The blacker the peel, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread.
• Don’t overmix: Mix only until combined to keep the bread tender.
• Add-ins: Try nuts (walnuts, pecans) or shredded coconut for texture.
• Check early: Oven times vary; start checking at 50 minutes.
• Let it rest: Cooling enhances flavor and makes slicing easier.

Recipe Variations

• Double Chocolate Banana Bread: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the batter.
• Nutty Banana Bread: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Peanut Butter Banana Bread: Swirl 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the batter before baking.
• Coconut Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add ½ cup shredded coconut for tropical flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Freezing and Storage

Room Temperature:

• Store covered or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigeration:

• Stays fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing:

• Wrap the loaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To serve: Thaw overnight at room temperature and reheat in the microwave or toaster oven for 15–20 seconds.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Whisk and rubber spatula
• Fork or potato masher (for bananas)
• Cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) and use plant-based butter and yogurt.

Q2: Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely. Thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.

Q3: Why is my banana bread dense?
Overmixing can make it dense. Stir just until ingredients are combined.

Q4: Can I use white sugar instead of brown?
Yes, but brown sugar gives more moisture and deeper flavor.

Q5: How do I know when it’s done?
The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the perfect blend of comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence. It’s tender, buttery, and packed with flavor — the kind of treat that feels both homey and luxurious.

Whether you’re using up ripe bananas or baking something special for your family, this loaf is always a winner. With melty chocolate chips, sweet banana aroma, and a soft crumb, every slice feels like a warm hug.