Ah, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a cherished tradition in my kitchen. I remember the first time I baked it, the tantalizing aroma wafting through the house—my family couldn’t resist sneaking bites even before it cooled! There’s something magical about the combination of ripe bananas and melting chocolate that brings a warmth to the heart. This bread isn’t just a treat; it’s the comforting hug you want on a rainy afternoon or the perfect companion for a cozy cup of coffee.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is an ode to how simple ingredients can create a symphony of flavors. You might think, “Banana bread? What’s so special about that?” But let me tell you, its unique blend of sweetness and texture is irresistible. The moistness from the bananas harmonizes beautifully with the slight chewiness of mini chocolate chips, while the buttery richness lifts the whole loaf to heavenly heights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—slice it for breakfast, enjoy a piece with your afternoon tea, or serve it warm as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Trust me, once you’ve made this loaf, you’ll want to keep a batch on hand for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up.
Gather these ingredients
To whip up this delightful Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, you’ll need:
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Ripe Bananas: 1 1/2 cups (380g) of ripe and mashed banana (usually around 3-4 medium-sized). The riper, the better! Look for those speckled beauties; they bring sweetness without needing extra sugar.
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Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar gives a deeper, caramel-like flavor that white sugar just can’t match.
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Granulated Sugar: Also, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar balances things out nicely, ensuring our bread is sweet but not cloying.
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Unsalted Butter: Use 1/2 cup (110g) of melted unsalted butter for that rich, buttery flavor. It’s best if it’s slightly cooled before mixing, just to avoid scrambling the eggs!
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Eggs: Two large eggs act as our binding agents, helping everything hold together beautifully.
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Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon (1 tsp) of vanilla extract adds that lovely warmth and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
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Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup (130g) of 2% Greek yogurt (sour cream works great too!) brings moistness to the bread and a bit of tang that brightens the overall taste.
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Flour: You’ll need 1 1/3 cups (180g) of all-purpose flour or a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour if you want a gluten-free version.
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Baking Soda and Salt: Don’t forget the 1 tsp of baking soda and 1/2 tsp of salt. They’re crucial for rising and enhancing all those scrumptious flavors.
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Chocolate Chips: Finally, 3/4 cup (140g) mini chocolate chips, plus a handful more for sprinkling, because who can resist a little extra chocolatey goodness on top?
Preparing Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help ensure that your bread bakes evenly and nicely.
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Grab a mixing bowl and mash your bananas until smooth. You can use a fork, but if you want a smoother consistency, a potato masher does wonders!
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In a larger bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined. Then add in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is incorporated.
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Now, it’s time for the Greek yogurt! Fold it in gently. This step is where your bread gets its delectable moisture.
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In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix! We want our banana bread fluffy, not tough.
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Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips—feel free to save some to sprinkle on top!
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Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Pour in your batter, spreading it evenly before topping with the reserved chocolate chips.
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Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be divine—just try to be patient!
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Once done, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to enjoy it
Ah, the best part! When it comes to slicing up this banana bread, consider serving it warm with a slather of butter or a drizzle of honey. It’s also delightful paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast. Feeling adventurous? Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a satisfying crunch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Banana Bread fresh, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or foil. It can last at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to store it longer, I recommend freezing slices. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Just pop a slice into the microwave for a few seconds, and you’re golden!
Helpful cooking tips
- Use Overripe Bananas: The more speckled the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be! If you have bananas beginning to blacken, it’s the perfect time!
- Don’t Skip the Yogurt: This is a key ingredient to a moist loaf. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream is a fabulous alternative.
- Mix it Up: You can toss in some cinnamon for a warm touch or a pinch of nutmeg for a delightful twist.
Creative twists
Love experimenting in the kitchen? Why not try substituting half of the flour for whole wheat for a heartier texture or add in some dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a chewy surprise? You could even take a departure from chocolate chips and use white chocolate or peanut butter chips.
Ingredients list
- 1 1/2 cups (380g) ripe and mashed banana (3-4 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (130g) 2% Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 1/3 cups (180g) all-purpose flour (or 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup (140g) mini chocolate chips + a handful more for topping
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash bananas in a bowl until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
- Whisk in mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla.
- Fold in Greek yogurt.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to wet and stir gently.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Grease a loaf pan and pour in the batter.
- Sprinkle with more chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes.
- Cool before slicing.
Your questions answered
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How long does it take to prepare and bake?
- Prep time is about 15 minutes, and bake time is roughly 60-65 minutes.
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Can I use frozen bananas?
- Absolutely! Just thaw them and mash them well before mixing.
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What’s the best way to ensure my bread is moist?
- Don’t overmix the batter, and make sure your bananas are really ripe!
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Can I add nuts?
- Sure thing! Walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch—just fold them in with the chocolate chips.
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Can I make this in muffin form?
- Yes, just adjust the baking time! It should take about 20-25 minutes in a muffin tin.
There you go! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe in your own kitchen. The best part about cooking is sharing those warm, delicious moments with friends and family. So gather your ingredients, and let’s make this Chocolate Chip Banana Bread together. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so please share your experiences! Happy baking! 🍌🍞🍫
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Description
This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a comforting treat, combining ripe bananas and mini chocolate chips for a beautifully balanced loaf. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack.Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Wet Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
Step-by-step Instructions
Preparation
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Mash Bananas
Mash bananas in a bowl until smooth. -
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. -
Combine Ingredients
Whisk in mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla. -
Add Yogurt
Fold in Greek yogurt. -
Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. -
Mix Together
Add dry ingredients to wet and stir gently.Don’t overmix! -
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in chocolate chips. -
Prepare Loaf Pan
Grease a loaf pan and pour in the batter.Sprinkle with more chocolate chips on top. -
Bake the Bread
Bake for 60-65 minutes.Cool before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 200kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 36mg12%
- Sodium 150mg7%
- Potassium 200mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 15g
- Protein 3g6%
- Vitamin A 200 IU
- Vitamin C 8 mg
- Calcium 15 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 0 IU
- Vitamin K 2 mcg
- Thiamin 0.1 mg
- Riboflavin 0.1 mg
- Niacin 0.6 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.1 mg
- Folate 8 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0 mcg
- Biotin 0 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0 mg
- Phosphorus 50 mg
- Iodine 0 mcg
- Magnesium 10 mg
- Zinc 0.3 mg
- Selenium 1 mcg
- Copper 0.1 mg
- Manganese 0.2 mg
- Chromium 0 mcg
- Molybdenum 0 mcg
- Chloride 0 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
